Clay, Soap & Other

Terebinth Soap

Pistacia terebinthus

T Traditional use

A traditional soap from South-East Anatolia made with terebinth fruit oil. Used to wash hair and skin; no healing effect has been shown.

Skin & Hair
Terebinth Soap – Clay, Soap & Other

Image: Herbadex Botanik Stüdyosu · Özel Üretim

PregnancyGenerally safe
BreastfeedingGenerally safe
ChildrenCaution
Drug interactionsNo recorded interactions
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On this page

At a glance

Terebinth (bıttım) soap is a traditional soap made with oil from the fruit of the terebinth tree (Pistacia terebinthus). It is traditionally used to wash hair and skin and for dandruff and dry scalp. There are no clinical studies showing it helps hair loss or eczema; like any soap, its alkalinity can dry the scalp.

Parts used: fruits
Key constituents: Fatty Acids (Oleic, Linoleic) from Terebinth Oil, Triterpenes

Updated: October 15, 2026

ℹ Compiled from standard pharmacognosy references and clinical literature summaries where no formal EMA monograph exists.

What is it used for?

  • T Traditional use

    Traditional use: Based on at least 30 years of documented traditional use rather than clinical trials.

    How do we rate evidence levels? →

    Traditionally used to cleanse hair and skin and for dandruff and dry scalp. [1]

How is it used?

Topical

Lather on wet hair or skin, then rinse well after 1–2 minutes. A vinegar rinse or conditioner can follow.

Amount: 2–3 times a week

[1]

Safety & interactions

⚠ External use only

  • Avoid contact with the eyes; it stings.
  • Its alkalinity may dry some scalps; stop if irritation occurs.
  • It does not replace treatment for skin diseases such as eczema or psoriasis.
[1]

Drug interactions

No recorded interactions

Side effects

  • Eye stinging
  • Dryness or itching

⚕ When to see a doctor

  • If high fever, shortness of breath or purulent/bloody phlegm develops
  • If symptoms do not improve within 1–2 weeks or worsen
  • If severe abdominal pain, jaundice, rash or allergic reaction occurs

Did you know?

"Bıttım" is the local name of the terebinth tree in South-East Anatolia; the soap is traditionally boiled in large cauldrons. [1]

Frequently asked questions

Does terebinth soap prevent hair loss?

There is no scientific evidence for this. See a dermatologist about the cause of hair loss.

Does terebinth soap help dandruff?

It is traditionally used for dandruff; the effect has not been clinically shown.

Can it be used on the face?

Yes, but it may dry dry or sensitive skin.

Sources

  1. Trease and Evans Pharmacognosy (16th Edition)Elsevier Health Sciences · 2009

Cite This Page

Terebinth Soap (Pistacia terebinthus). Herbadex — Doğal Şifa Rehberi (2026). https://herbadex.com/en/herb/terebinth-soap/

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