gamma-terpinene

PhytochemicalTerpene

What is it

Gamma-terpinene is a monoterpene found in many essential oils, including citrus peel oils, tea tree, marjoram and cumin. It is a common natural flavor and fragrance compound and a building block in essential oil chemistry.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Flavor / aroma

Mixed Evidence

Used for flavoring; no health benefit as a supplement.

How it works

Gamma-terpinene has antioxidant and antimicrobial activity in vitro and contributes to the aromatic and flavor characteristics of citrus and other essential oils. It can be metabolized to p-cymene in some systems. Its safety in food-grade amounts is well established, but high-dose isolated use is uncommon and not well studied in humans.

Dosage

No established RDA. Used in trace amounts as flavoring (typically less than 0.1% of food/supplement product).

When and how to take it

Not applicable as a flavor.

1 commercial form

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Essential oil component

Naturally present in citrus and herb essential oils.

Volatile.

Safety

Food-grade flavor use is generally regarded as safe. High-dose isolated use can cause oxidative damage in cell models, but typical exposure is well below problematic levels.

Who should be cautious

Not a meaningful concern at typical food/supplement exposure.

Interactions

No significant interactions reported at flavor exposure levels.

Food sources

Citrus peels

Amount
trace
%DV
—

Frequently asked questions

What is gamma-terpinene used for?⌄

It is a natural flavor and aroma compound found in citrus and other essential oils.

Is it safe?⌄

Yes at typical food-flavor exposure levels.

References

gamma-terpinene on Wikidata — Wikidata link

gamma-terpinene (ChEBI:10577) — ChEBI link

gamma-terpinene (PubChem CID 7461) — PubChem link

gamma-terpinene on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on gamma-terpinene (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.