Determination of volatile terpenes

Volatile terpenes are a family of aromatic compounds widely present in essential oils, plant extracts, and many food and cosmetic products. They contribute to the sensory profile (odor, flavor) but also possess recognized biological properties, such as antioxidant, antimicrobial, and soothing effects. The measurement of volatile terpenes allows for a precise mapping of their composition and ensures the standardization of extracts.

Analytical methods for the determination of volatile terpenes

The analysis of volatile terpenes is based on gas chromatography, the reference technique for the separation and identification of volatile compounds:

• GC-FID (gas chromatography with flame ionization detection), used for the quantitative determination of terpenes.
• GC-MS (gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry), allowing fine identification and characterization of aromatic profiles, even for molecules present in trace amounts.

These analytical methods are comparable to those used for the volatile compounds and the determination of aromas , which also target essential substances in the formulation of sensory products.

Industrial and sectoral applications

The dosage of volatile terpenes is crucial in several sectors:

• Nutraceuticals: standardization of plant extracts and food supplements rich in terpenes.
• Cosmetics and perfumery: quality control of essential oils, creams, perfumes and aromatic treatments.
• Human nutrition: evaluation of the aromatic profiles of beverages, confectionery, fermented products and flavoring ingredients.
• Medicinal plants: exploitation of the bioactive properties of compounds such as limonene, linalool or pinene.

This analysis is essential to guarantee sensory consistency and conformity of complex formulations.

Matrices analyzed for volatile terpenes

YesWeLab offers volatile terpene assays in a wide variety of matrices: essential oils, plant extracts, nutraceutical powders, capsules, beverages, food products, creams, lotions, and perfumes. Each matrix has a tailored protocol to best reflect the actual composition and achieve reliable and reproducible results.

Quality and compliance issues

The dosage of volatile terpenes makes it possible to respond to several strategic challenges:

• Guarantee the sensory quality and reproducibility of products.
• Check the authenticity of plant extracts and essential oils.
• Check compliance with current standards and industrial specifications.
• Highlight the bioactive properties of terpenes in health or cosmetic claims.

These issues are similar to those encountered in the dosage of phenolic compounds and the dosage of flavonoids , which also contribute to the functional and nutritional enhancement of plant extracts.

YesWeLab's expertise in the dosage of volatile terpenes

YesWeLab collaborates with a network of more than 200 partner laboratories in France and Europe, accredited ISO 17025 and COFRAC, specializing in the analysis of volatile compounds and essential oils. Our experts choose the most appropriate analytical method according to your objectives: quality control, regulatory compliance, or product development. Thanks to our digital platform, you can manage your analyses with ease: request quotes, track samples, and quickly return results. Since 2020, numerous food, nutraceutical, and cosmetic manufacturers have trusted us to guarantee the traceability and quality of their products.

Take action

Do you want to analyze the volatile terpene profile of your essential oils, plant extracts, or cosmetic formulations? Entrust your samples to YesWeLab for accurate, standards-compliant dosing. Request a quote online today.