Turpentine Publisher



Saeidnia S¹
Source: Encyclopedia of Toxicology# Fourth Edition: Volume 1-9 Published:2023

Abstract

Turpentine is a well-known essential oil extracted by distillation from pine oleoresin and widely employed in the pharmaceutical industry, and also in perfumery, sprays, deodorizers, and stimulating ointments. It is completely degradable and also does not represent a hazard to plants treated by wastewater, but humans can be exposed through foods, personal care products, household products, external and internal medications, paints, and varnishes. Although there is not sufficient evidence for genotoxicity and carcinogenicity of turpentine in humans, it is recognized as very immunotoxic as well as an allergenic inducer and sensitizing agent. However, irritation, central nervous system depression, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and weakness are common signs of toxicity in humans and animals. In this article, usages, metabolism, different toxicities, and pathways of exposure to turpentine are reviewed. © 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.