Safety Guide for Terpene Contact and Ingestion
🌱 Safe Handling of Terpenes – Essential Precautions & First Aid
Terpenes are powerful natural compounds found in many plants, including cannabis, citrus, and lavender. While they offer numerous therapeutic benefits, proper handling and storage are essential to avoid irritation, ingestion risks, or accidental exposure.
Follow these safety guidelines to enjoy the benefits of terpenes while minimizing risks.
🛡️ Quick Safety Summary
| Potential Risk | Immediate Action | Prevention Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Eye Contact | Rinse with lukewarm water for 15+ mins | Avoid touching face after handling |
| Ingestion | Do not induce vomiting; rinse mouth, drink water | Store terpenes away from food & drinks |
| Skin Contact | Wash with mild soap & water | Wear gloves when handling concentrates |
| Inhalation of Vapors | Move to fresh air, seek ventilation | Use in well-ventilated areas |
👀 Eye Contact – What to Do if Terpenes Get in Your Eyes
Terpenes are highly concentrated and can cause severe eye irritation. If accidental eye exposure occurs, take immediate action:
🚨 First Aid for Eye Exposure
1️⃣ Flush the Eye Immediately → Use lukewarm running water for at least 15 minutes. Ensure water flows outward to avoid spreading to the other eye.
2️⃣ Remove Contact Lenses → If wearing lenses, remove them carefully after the first rinse.
3️⃣ Do NOT Rub Your Eyes → This can worsen irritation and cause further damage.
4️⃣ Seek Medical Attention → If redness, pain, or blurred vision persists, consult a doctor immediately.
✅ Prevention Tips
✔️ Always wash hands thoroughly after handling terpene products.
✔️ Avoid touching your face while using terpene sprays or oils.
✔️ Store terpene products securely and out of children’s reach.
⚠️ Ingestion – What to Do If Terpenes Are Swallowed
Terpenes are NOT meant for oral consumption in concentrated form. Ingesting terpenes can cause nausea, vomiting, or toxicity symptoms.
🚨 First Aid for Accidental Ingestion
1️⃣ Do NOT Induce Vomiting → This may cause additional harm.
2️⃣ Rinse Mouth Immediately → Have the person rinse with water or milk to dilute the terpene.
3️⃣ Hydrate → Offer a small amount of water to ease discomfort.
4️⃣ Seek Medical Attention → If the person has difficulty breathing, severe nausea, or confusion, contact poison control or a doctor immediately.
✅ Prevention Tips
✔️ Clearly label all terpene products to prevent accidental ingestion.
✔️ Store away from food & drinks to avoid mix-ups.
✔️ Educate users on safe terpene handling practices.
🖐️ Skin Contact – Safe Application & Patch Testing
Direct skin contact with concentrated terpenes can cause irritation, redness, or allergic reactions.
🚨 First Aid for Skin Exposure
1️⃣ Wash the affected area with mild soap & lukewarm water.
2️⃣ Avoid touching sensitive areas (eyes, nose, mouth) with terpene-covered hands.
3️⃣ If irritation persists, consult a doctor.
✅ Prevention Tips
✔️ Always perform a patch test before using terpenes on your skin.
✔️ Wear gloves when handling terpene concentrates.
✔️ Dilute terpenes before applying them to skin or fabric.
💨 Inhalation – Safe Usage & Ventilation
Terpene vapors can be potent. Overexposure may cause dizziness, headaches, or respiratory discomfort.
🚨 First Aid for Overexposure
1️⃣ Move to fresh air immediately.
2️⃣ Rest in a well-ventilated area.
3️⃣ If breathing difficulties persist, seek medical help.
✅ Prevention Tips
✔️ Use terpenes in well-ventilated areas to prevent buildup.
✔️ Avoid inhaling concentrated vapors directly.
✔️ Use diffusers and sprays at recommended distances.
🔬 General Terpene Safety Guidelines
🔹 Dilute Before Use → Never apply raw terpenes directly on skin or surfaces.
🔹 Patch Test → Always test new terpene products before full application.
🔹 Wear Protective Gear → Consider gloves & safety glasses when handling high concentrations.
🔹 Store Securely → Keep terpene bottles upright in cool, dry places.
