Evidence supporting the use of: Alpha-terpineol
For the health condition: Sinus Infection

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Alpha-terpineol is a naturally occurring monoterpene alcohol found in essential oils such as pine, cajeput, and tea tree. Its use for sinus infections is primarily rooted in traditional and folk medicine, where inhalation of essential oils containing alpha-terpineol has been employed to alleviate respiratory symptoms, including those associated with sinusitis. The rationale for its use is often based on its pleasant scent and mild antimicrobial properties observed in vitro, along with anecdotal reports of easing congestion.

However, scientific evidence directly supporting alpha-terpineol’s efficacy in treating or supporting sinus infections in humans is limited. A few laboratory studies have demonstrated that alpha-terpineol exhibits antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities against certain bacteria and fungi, which might be relevant to sinusitis if these pathogens are involved. Yet, these findings have not been translated into robust clinical trials or systematic reviews establishing benefit for sinus infection in people.

Most references to alpha-terpineol for sinus infections remain in the domain of aromatherapy and natural health traditions, rather than conventional medicine. As such, the use of alpha-terpineol for sinus infection is justified more by tradition than by rigorous scientific validation. The overall quality and quantity of evidence supporting its use for this condition are weak, warranting a low evidence rating.

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