--- title: "Terebinth Soap: Benefits, Uses & Side Effects | Herbadex" description: "A traditional soap from South-East Anatolia made with terebinth fruit oil. Used to wash hair and skin; no healing effect has been shown." language: en url: https://herbadex.com/en/herb/terebinth-soap/ source: Herbadex (https://herbadex.com) --- [Clay, Soap & Other](https://herbadex.com/en/form/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](https://herbadex.com/en/for/skin-hair/) Image: Herbadex Botanik Stüdyosu · Özel Üretim Pregnancy **Generally safe** Breastfeeding **Generally safe** Children **Caution** Drug interactions **No recorded interactions** ## 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 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)](https://www.sciencedirect.com/book/9780702029332/trease-and-evans-pharmacognosy) Elsevier Health Sciences · 2009 ### Cite This Page Terebinth Soap (Pistacia terebinthus). Herbadex — Doğal Şifa Rehberi (2026). https://herbadex.com/en/herb/terebinth-soap/ ## Related guides and comparisons - [How to Prepare Herbal Tea](https://herbadex.com/en/guide/how-to-prepare-herbal-tea/) - [How to Use Essential Oils Safely](https://herbadex.com/en/guide/essential-oil-safety/) - [Herbal Products and Drug Interactions](https://herbadex.com/en/guide/herb-drug-interactions/) ## On this page At a glance What is it used for? How is it used? Safety & interactions Did you know? 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