Think about the peppermint flavor in your toothpaste or gum—did you know it’s often made from synthetic compounds? Peppermint oil is broken down into individual chemicals, then cheaply reassembled through simple chemical processes to mimic the scent. The result? A fake, chemically manipulated product that smells similar but lacks the natural synergy and therapeutic benefits of pure, whole peppermint essential oil.
| The Importance of Purity and Consistency - doTERRA Europe | Science Talks
Dr. Prabodh Satyal has published several studies revealing widespread adulteration in the essential oil industry. One of the most striking examples is birch essential oil. In many cases, products labeled as "birch" were actually made from wintergreen or, more alarmingly, synthetically produced from expired aspirin. The common link? Methyl salicylate—the main compound found in both wintergreen and birch. Manufacturers can easily convert aspirin into methyl salicylate through a simple chemical process. It’s cheap, smells similar, but has no true connection to the birch plant.
| The Importance of Purity and Consistency - doTERRA Europe | Science Talks
The benefits of essential oils come from their precise chemical composition. When the composition is correct, the oil can offer powerful, positive effects. According to the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), the acceptable range for certain active compounds is between 20% and 40%—which means one bottle may contain only half as much, of a key ingredient as another. That’s why purity and consistency matter.
| The Importance of Purity and Consistency - doTERRA Europe | Science Talks