Terpene Series: Borneol

Borneol is a terpene valued for its woody, camphor-like aroma. Derived from dryobalanops aromatica, a member of the teak family of trees, the borneol terpene was historically harvested by tapping the tree's trunk. Besides thyme, borneol also naturally occurs in ginger, rosemary, sage, camphor, marjoram and mugwort. The terpene was then cooled and hardened into a clear substance.

Today, most borneol is created through turpentine oil or camphor and then ground down into a powder.In contrast, borneol may be used as an active ingredient in insect repellants, even shielding against serious mosquito-borne illnesses like West Nile virus. But while its scent is toxic for bugs, it has a much different effect on us.

Some people compare the sensory experience of borneol to walking through a forest of minty balsam fir trees. This refreshing sensation makes borneol a key component of many therapeutic-grade essential oils. For example, thyme borneol oil bears a fresh yet spicy and powerful fragrance.


The Boiling point of Borneol  is 213 Degrees Celsius