Two Essential Oils from doTERRA: Lavender and Peppermint

Two Essential Oils: Lavender and Peppermint

Lavender and Peppermint were among doTERRA’s first oils, and their popularity remains strong because of the countless benefits they offer (they are like the “Swiss Army knives of oils”). Much of their versatility is grounded in science—their chemical composition makes them ideal for many different uses. Let’s take a closer look at how you can use Lavender and Peppermint:

Lavender

Lavender is sourced primarily from the Esseterre distillery in Bulgaria, where the climate is perfect for this perennial plant. The plant has evergreen leaves, while its flowers have a distinctive soft purple hue—the shade that gave “lavender” its name as a color. It may surprise you that Lavender belongs to the Lamiaceae family, more commonly known as the mint family. The species used by doTERRA, Lavandula angustifolia, is known as true lavender and is native to the Mediterranean region.

Although you may often see it as an ornamental plant, about 30% of the chemical composition of Lavender essential oil is linalool. If you have heard of linalool before, you know it is one of the main reasons Lavender is an excellent oil for supporting sleep—it can help create a calming, relaxing atmosphere.

Peppermint

Peppermint is sourced from the northwestern coast of the United States and from other regions around the world. The plant itself has bright green leaves and stems with a slightly purple hue.

Many of Peppermint’s effects come down to simple chemistry. Its primary chemical constituent is menthol, which, when ingested, interacts effectively with the body’s ion channels.* Ion channels regulate the movement of ions across cell membranes and therefore influence nerve impulses and muscle contractions.

* Among other effects, this enables Peppermint to help relax the smooth muscles of the colon, making bowel movements easier and supporting the management of occasional loose stools.

If you have ever overheated, you know how desperately you want relief. Put the ice packs aside: menthol also gives Peppermint oil its refreshing, cooling properties. Add a few drops of Peppermint oil to body lotion or to a spray made with fractionated coconut oil and water, then apply it to your skin for a quick cooling sensation.

Extra tip

Add Lemon to Lavender and Peppermint—what do you get?
TriEase® Softgels, which support the management of seasonal discomfort.