For generations, turpentine has been revered as a versatile natural remedy, transcending its common perception as just a paintbrush cleaner. This herbal marvel, distilled from pine resin, has a storied history in traditional medicine, offering a range of health benefits.

Health Conditions Treated with Turpentine

Combating Parasites

Turpentine has long been a folk remedy for parasites. Its effectiveness against pinworms is notable, with a simple application method involving turpentine drops on a sugar cube, making it palatable and easy to administer.

Fighting Fungus and Candida

Utilized in various anti-candida protocols, turpentine serves as a cost-effective solution for nail fungus. Regular application of a drop on affected nails demonstrates its remedial potency.

Supporting Autism Treatments

The inclusion of turpentine in protocols for autistic children highlights its potential in addressing heavy metals and candida issues, though professional guidance is paramount.

Turpentine overdose in children may be rare, but it has occurred. ¹

Eradicating Head Lice

Head lice are a common issue in schools. While there are many over-the-counter and prescription treatments, they can be harmful, especially with repeated use. Additionally, lice are increasingly becoming resistant to these treatments. A safer and more effective alternative is a mixture of turpentine and coconut oil.How to Prepare and Apply the Treatment:

1. Mixing Ratio: Combine turpentine and coconut oil in a ratio of 1:10. You can also use olive oil or mayonnaise instead of coconut oil.
2. Application: Gently massage the mixture into the scalp and evenly distribute it through the hair.
3. Covering: After applying the mixture, cover the hair with plastic wrap. Then, wrap a towel over the plastic for an hour.
4. Rinsing: After one hour, remove the towel and plastic wrap. Thoroughly wash the hair to remove all oils.
5. Repeating the Treatment: Repeat this entire process one week later. In the meantime, use a nit comb to remove any remaining nits (lice eggs).

This natural method offers a safer alternative to traditional lice treatments, reducing the risks associated with chemical-based products.

Soothing Arthritis and Gout

Massage oil can be made with turpentine to massage into pained joints. Because castor oil is also suitable for arthritis, it is an excellent medium to be mixed with turpentine. Use 1 part turpentine and 3 parts castor oil, olive oil, or coconut oil. Do not use this oil on sensitive skin, broken skin, or mucous membranes.

Alleviating Cold and Flu Symptoms

Turpentine can be used in various ways to alleviate symptoms of colds and flu.

1. Sore Throat Relief:

• Method: Gently swab the back of the throat with turpentine.
• Optional: Follow up with honey to improve taste.

2. Sinus Congestion Treatment:

• Preparation: Mix 5 drops of turpentine with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
• Application: Place a few drops of this mixture into each nostril to ease congestion and combat infection.

3. Cough Remedy:

• Use: Apply the same turpentine and olive oil mixture used for sinuses. Massage it into the back and chest areas to help alleviate coughing.
• Alternative Method: For internal use, place 1-3 drops of turpentine on a sugar cube and consume.

4. Inhalation for Cold Viruses:

• Method: Simply inhale turpentine vapors.
• Effect: This method delivers turpentine directly into the lungs, throat, and nasal passages, offering relief from cold symptoms.

Treating Urinary Tract Infections

Turpentine is sometimes used to treat bladder infections. 1/4 teaspoon turpentine is added to a spoonful of sugar (or honey) and taken once.

Turpentine Dosages

The appropriate dosage of turpentine varies, ranging from a mere drop to a full teaspoon. It's important to start with a small amount, gradually increase it, and closely observe how your body reacts.

1. Simple Administration Method:

Turpentine on Sugar Cubes: Placing it on sugar cubes is a popular and easy way to ingest turpentine.

2. Recommended Dosage Protocol by Bill Thompson:

Initial Dosage:

• Begin with a small dosage. This could be a few drops or start with ¼ teaspoon.
• Gradually increase the amount, but do not exceed 1 teaspoon per dose.

Frequency of Dosage:

• Initially, take turpentine twice a week.
• Progress to a schedule of one day on turpentine, followed by one day off.

Consecutive Dosing Cycle:

• For ongoing issues, Bill Thompson suggests taking turpentine for five consecutive days, followed by a two-day break.
• Continue this cycle for about six weeks to effectively combat a wide range of pathogens, including parasites, candida, bacteria, and viruses.

Important Considerations:

• Always take turpentine just before meals.
• Ensure to have regular breaks in the dosage cycle to reduce stress on the body and adjust the dosage as needed.

This structured approach to turpentine dosing aims to maximize its effectiveness while minimizing potential stress on the body.

Dosage Information for Candida and Fungal Infections

When using turpentine to treat Candida and fungal infections, a specific dosage pattern is recommended to manage Herxheimer reactions (die-off reactions).

Dosage Schedule:

• Alternating Days: The advised dosage is on an alternating day basis – one day on, followed by one day off. This schedule helps those experiencing intense initial Herxheimer reactions by providing a rest day after each turpentine dose. The aim is to offer a more tolerable experience during the initial phase of eliminating Candida.

Combining Turpentine with Castor Oil:

• Purpose: Castor oil is recommended for use with turpentine, particularly when targeting pathogens and Candida in the intestinal tract.
• Benefits: The castor oil serves two primary functions:

1. Coating the Digestive Tract: It helps in evenly distributing the turpentine throughout the intestinal tract.
2. Laxative Effect: Castor oil facilitates the elimination of pathogens that turpentine is working to eradicate.

This combination and dosage strategy are designed to enhance the effectiveness of turpentine in treating Candida and fungal infections while mitigating potential discomfort from die-off reactions.

Optimal Type of Turpentine for Medicinal Use

When selecting turpentine for medicinal purposes, choosing the right type for safety and efficacy is crucial. The best turpentine for health-related uses is:

Pure Gum Spirit Turpentine:

• Derived from Pine Resin: This type of turpentine is distilled directly from pine tree resin, ensuring a natural and organic product.
• No Additives: It should be free from any additives or synthetic chemicals.
• Quality Assurance: Look for brands that guarantee purity and quality. Many users prefer products like the Diamond G Forest Products Brand, known for its organic and pure nature.

Important Note: Avoid turpentine made from petroleum products, as these are not suitable for medicinal use. Always read labels carefully to ensure that you're getting pure, resin-based turpentine.

Turpentine Side Effects

Turpentine can have side effects as with most natural and even not-so-natural remedies. You will find more information about turpentine side effects and how to avoid them here.

Considering Kerosene as a Natural Remedy

Kerosene and turpentine are distilled products, but there are significant differences, especially regarding their use as natural remedies.

Source and Composition:

• Wood vs. Petroleum: Historically, kerosene could be distilled from wood, similar to turpentine. However, most kerosene available today is derived from petroleum.

Medicinal Use:

• Not Recommended: Due to its petroleum origin, kerosene is generally not advised for medicinal use. This contrasts with turpentine, derived from pine resin and often used in traditional remedies.
• Exception in Emergencies: The only circumstance where kerosene might be considered for medicinal purposes is in an emergency situation where no other remedies are available.

Read on to see how Earth Clinic readers have used turpentine for their own health conditions. If you have used turpentine for health issues, please be sure to share your story with us!