Pain relief
There is limited research on the pain-relieving effects of terpineol specifically, but some studies suggest that it may have analgesic (pain-relieving) properties.

One study published in the journal Phytotherapy Research in 2013 found that terpineol, when administered in combination with the cannabinoid cannabidiol (CBD), was effective in reducing pain and inflammation in a rat model of arthritis. The authors of the study suggested that terpineol may enhance the anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects of CBD.

Another study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology in 2017 found that a terpineol-rich extract of the plant Lippia alba had significant analgesic effects in a mouse model of neuropathic pain. The authors of the study suggested that terpineol may exert its analgesic effects through modulation of the GABAergic system, which is involved in the regulation of pain signaling in the nervous system.

More research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms through which terpineol may offer pain relief, but these preliminary findings suggest that terpineol may have potential as a natural pain-relieving agent.

Anti-inflammatory properties
Terpineol has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is a natural response of the body’s immune system to injury, infection, or foreign substances. However, chronic inflammation can lead to tissue damage and is associated with a number of diseases, including arthritis, asthma, and cardiovascular disease.

Research has suggested that terpineol can reduce inflammation by inhibiting the activity of pro-inflammatory cytokines, molecules that play a key role in the inflammatory response. By blocking the production of these cytokines, terpineol may help reduce inflammation and the associated tissue damage.

In addition to inhibiting cytokines, terpineol has been shown to inhibit the activity of enzymes involved in the production of inflammatory molecules, such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes. By reducing the levels of these inflammatory molecules, terpineol may help alleviate inflammation and associated symptoms.

It’s worth noting that much of the research on terpineol’s anti-inflammatory properties has been conducted in animal and in vitro (test tube) studies, and further research is needed to determine the effects of terpineol on human inflammation.

The lime blossom flower, which contains high levels of terpineol, was traditionally used to treat colds and called the “nectar of kings” for its scent and therapeutic benefits.

Sedative effects
Terpineol has been reported to have sedative effects, but the research on its effectiveness as a sedative is limited. Some studies have suggested that terpineol may have sedative effects in animals, but more research is needed to determine its effectiveness in humans. Additionally, the sedative effects of terpineol may vary depending on the individual and the method of administration.

Potential anti-cancer effects
Research has shown that terpineol may have potential anti-cancer properties. In vitro studies have suggested that terpineol may induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cancer cells, inhibit tumor growth, and suppress cancer cell migration and invasion.

A study published in the journal Anticancer Research in 2014 reported that terpineol had cytotoxic effects on human colon cancer cells, inhibiting their growth and inducing cell death. Another study published in the same journal in 2016 found that terpineol inhibited the growth of breast cancer cells and induced apoptosis.