Similar to monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes are terpenes, which means the molecules consist of only carbon and hydrogen atoms. (By now, you'll notice that terpenes have an -ene- suffix.) These molecules are larger and heavier than monoterpenes because they have a skeleton of 15 carbons. As a result, they evaporate more slowly and tend to have deeper, richer, more enduring aromas. A few of my favorites are Beta-caryophyllene, Alpha-humulene, Zingiberene, and Alpha-curcumene.
While there are some common therapeutic properties in oils that have high levels of sesquiterpenes, there are differences as well. Those common properties include grounding, antiseptic, antibacterial, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antispasmodic. However, in this category, individual oils must be studied for their positive effects because some are sedative, some can help lower blood pressure, some are skin-healing, and some are cooling while others are warming. Many sesquiterpene-rich oils are gentle on the skin, but some can irritate the skin if they have oxidized. Comments are closed.
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DisclaimerThe information contained in this blog is for educational purposes only and has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Archives
February 2021
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