Cedarwood essential oil contains the highest percentage of sesquiterpenes among the oils listed.
What Essential Oil Has the Highest Sesquiterpenes?
Sesquiterpenes are a class of hydrocarbons found in essential oils, known for their larger molecular structure compared to monoterpenes. They often contribute to the grounding, calming, and sometimes woody or earthy aromas of essential oils. Due to their molecular size, sesquiterpenes are not as volatile as lighter compounds, meaning they evaporate more slowly and can have a longer-lasting effect.
Among essential oils, Cedarwood essential oil stands out for its remarkably high concentration of sesquiterpenes. Its primary sesquiterpene constituents are cedrene and thujopsene, which collectively make up approximately 70% of the oil's composition.
Here's a breakdown of essential oils with significant sesquiterpene content:
Essential Oil | Main Sesquiterpene Constituent(s) | Amount (Approximate) |
---|---|---|
Cedarwood | cedrene, thujopsene | 70% |
Patchouli | bulnesene, guaiene | 65% |
Vetiver | vatirenene, seychellane, cadinene | 65% |
Ginger | zingiberene, sesquiphellandrene, curcumene | 55% |
While Patchouli and Vetiver essential oils also contain substantial amounts of sesquiterpenes—each approximately 65%—Cedarwood maintains the highest concentration among these examples. Ginger essential oil, though rich in sesquiterpenes like zingiberene, sesquiphellandrene, and curcumene, has a slightly lower percentage at around 55%.