Terpene Compounds

Terpenes and terpenoids are aromatic compounds that occur naturally in many plants. Often, they produce characteristic odors (e.g. lavender, pine and orange) and are major components of plant essential oils and resins. Among other things, terpenes serve as natural plant defense mechanisms against insects and pests, deterring predatory insects and animals in some cases and attracting beneficial insects and animals, such as bees, in others. Terpenes have a wide range of uses in everyday life, including food, cosmetics, aromatherapy, perfumes, and pharmaceuticals.