Compound Monograph

Beta-pinene

Beta-pinene is a common monoterpene responsible for the fresh, woody, pine-like aroma of many conifers and herbs.

Work in progress

Classification

Beta-pinene is a monoterpene, part of the terpenoids class. The largest class of plant compounds, built from five-carbon isoprene units — the essential-oil aromatics, resins, bitter principles, saponins, and plant sterols.

Terpenoids Monoterpenes

Where Does It Come From? (13)

Beta-pinene is a naturally occurring monoterpene, found in Hyssop, Pine, Rosemary and 10 other sources. It is well tolerated orally (low toxicity).

Basil Damiana Turnera diffusa Feverfew Tanacetum parthenium German Chamomile Matricaria chamomilla Hyssop Hyssopus officinalis Juniper Juniperus communis Muira Puama Ptychopetalum olacoides Peppermint Mentha piperita Pine Pinus spp. Rosemary Rosmarinus officinalis Walnut Juglans nigra Wormwood Artemisia absinthium Yarrow Achillea millefolium

Research & Evidence

Beta-pinene is one of the two pinene isomers and a major component of many conifer resins and aromatic herbs such as hyssop, rosemary and basil. It contributes a fresh, woody, pine-like scent and is used widely in fragrance and flavour work. Alongside alpha-pinene it is a building block of turpentine and a frequently studied component of essential oils for anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activity in laboratory settings.

Toxicity & Safety

Beta-pinene is generally considered low in toxicity at dietary and aromatic exposure levels and is an approved flavouring substance. Like other terpenes it can oxidise on exposure to air to form skin-sensitising compounds, so aged or concentrated oils may provoke contact allergy in some people.