Evidence supporting the use of: Gamma-terpinene
For the health condition: Colds (decongestant)
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1
Gamma-terpinene is a monoterpene commonly found in the essential oils of plants such as cumin, coriander, and tea tree. Its use as a remedy for colds, particularly as a decongestant, is primarily based on traditional herbal medicine practices rather than robust scientific validation. Historically, essential oils containing gamma-terpinene have been inhaled or used in topical preparations to help alleviate symptoms of respiratory congestion. The presumed benefit is often attributed to the aromatic qualities of these oils, which may subjectively improve the sensation of airflow through the nasal passages. However, there is a lack of direct scientific studies specifically investigating gamma-terpinene’s decongestant effects or its efficacy in treating the common cold. Most available research on gamma-terpinene focuses on its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, with only limited exploration of its effects on respiratory symptoms. As such, while its use persists in traditional and folk remedies, the evidence supporting gamma-terpinene as an effective decongestant remains weak and largely anecdotal.
Other ingredients used for Colds (decongestant)
allspicewaterhyssop
basil
beta-pinene
black cumin
black currant
black pepper
radish
capsaicinoids
chen pi
citrus oil
clove
turmeric
echinacea purpurea
elderberry
forsythia
garlic bulb
ginger
greek mountain tea
green tea
horseradish
honeysuckle
lemon
licorice root
mint
mustard seed
oregano
peppermint oil
pineapple
pomegranate
quercetin
rhizome
rosemary
schizonepeta
spearmint leaf
thyme
vitamin C
wasabia japonica
water
zinc
hyssop
cardamom
atractylodes
capsicum
mugwort
alpinia galangal
ferula assafoetida
boxthorne
lemongrass
yerba santa
chrysanthemum
sweet flag
eucalyptus
menthol oil
abies spectabilis
horehound
Sichuan pepper
indigo leaves
cayenne pepper
Alcohol
Agastache
Alpha-terpineol
Asarum heterotropoides
Andrographis
Asteracea
allyl isothiocyanate
Allium tuberosum
Arani
Atractylone
Baphicacanthus cusia
Balsam
Bishop's Weed
Black galingale
Bitter Grass
berry
Bee products
Buddha's Hand
Borneol
Coconut
Clerodendrum trichotomum
Capillary Artemisia
Citron
Citrus
Cineole
Capsaicin
Cajuput
Cinnamaldehyde
Costus
Dragonhead
Ephedra
English Horsemint
Echinacea
Elder
Essential Oil Blend
Ephedrine
Mustard
salt
Sandalwood
Sweet Orange alcohol
Other health conditions supported by gamma-terpinene
Athlete's FootBites and Stings
Bronchitis
Colds (antiviral)
Colds (decongestant)
Colds (general)
Colds (prevention)
Colds (with fever)
Congestion
Congestion (bronchial)
Congestion (lungs)
Congestion (lymphatic)
Congestion (sinus)
Dandruff
Fungal Infections
Insect Repellant