Evidence supporting the use of: Gamma-terpinene
For the health condition: Insect Repellant

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Gamma-terpinene is a monoterpene commonly found in essential oils such as tea tree, cumin, and coriander. Its use as an insect repellent is primarily supported by preliminary scientific studies, rather than deep traditional use. Laboratory research has demonstrated that gamma-terpinene and essential oils rich in this compound can exhibit repellent activity against certain insects, including mosquitoes. For example, studies have shown that essential oils containing gamma-terpinene disrupt the host-seeking behavior of mosquitoes and other pest insects, likely due to its volatility and ability to interfere with olfactory signaling.

However, most studies have been conducted either in vitro or in controlled environments, and the effectiveness of gamma-terpinene as a standalone repellent (as opposed to in complex mixtures) is not robustly established. Additionally, its efficacy tends to be lower than well-established repellents such as DEET or even other plant-derived compounds like citronellal or eucalyptol. There is little evidence of historical or widespread traditional use of gamma-terpinene itself as an insect repellent; rather, the effect is more often attributed to the essential oils in which it is a component.

In summary, while there is some scientific basis for gamma-terpinene’s insect repellent properties, the evidence is limited and not conclusive. Its use is better supported in the context of multi-component essential oils rather than as a single active ingredient.

More about gamma-terpinene
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Products containing gamma-terpinene

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