Molecular sieves, complex organic bases and radical oxidants are commonly used in alcohols oxidation reactions. In this work, we have evaluated the beneficial effects of addition of K2CO3 to Pd(II)-catalyzed oxidation alcohols, which resulted in a remarkable increase in the oxidation reaction rates without selectivity losses. Herein, in a metallic reoxidant-free system, terpenic alcohols (beta-citronellol, nerol and geraniol) were selectively converted into respective aldehydes from Pd(II)-catalyzed oxidation reactions in presence of dioxygen. High conversions and selectivities (greater than 90%) were achieved in the presence of the Pd(OAc)(2)/K2CO3 catalyst and pyridine excess. The exogenous role of others auxiliary anionic and nitrogen compounds was appraised.