Chemistry of Pink Pepper

Introduction

At the 2018 doTERRA Dream Convention, several new and exciting single oils were announced: Green Mandarin, Yarrow|Pom, Turmeric, Magnolia, and Pink Pepper. Like all of these mentioned convention products, Pink Pepper brings with it a unique blend of constituents and a chemical profile that bears several health-supporting benefits.
 

Chemistry Snapshot
 

The GC/MS results of Pink Pepper show that over 65 percent of the constituents present in the oil are monoterpene alkenes. Monoterpenes are molecules that have the chemical formula C₁₀H₁₆; meaning each molecule is made up of 10 carbon atoms and 16 hydrogen atoms. If a molecule is an alkene, it contains one or more double bonds between carbon atoms.
 

What makes the chemistry of Pink Pepper so unique is that it includes a relatively high concentration of alpha-phellandrene, a monoterpene alkene. In fact, Pink Pepper essential oil contains more alpha-phellandrene than any other doTERRA single oil. This makes Pink Pepper one of the best sources for this extraordinary constituent. Limonene, another monoterpene alkene, is also found in Pink Pepper essential oil.

Benefits from Constituents
 

Experimental studies have discovered the remarkable effect alpha-phellandrene can have on some of the cells and biomolecules involved in a healthy immune response.^1,2 Because of this action, alpha-phellandrene is an excellent soothing agent and can be used both internally and topically to promote the body’s natural healing process, ease discomfort, and support normal inflammatory function.*
 

Some recent research has proposed several cardiovascular benefits associated with the chemical constituent limonene. Limonene may help in maintaining healthy levels of blood-circulating lipids that are already in the normal range. It may also help limit storage of lipids in the liver, supporting liver health.³ Scientists hypothesize that limonene exerts its supportive benefits through its interaction with PPARg (PPAR-gamma).³ This protein can affect the transcription or “processing” of certain genes in the DNA, some of which affect the metabolism of lipids.
 

Conclusion

Pink Pepper is an exciting new essential oil to add to your collection. With both alpha-phellandrene and limonene, Pink Pepper is a great oil to help support the immune and cardiovascular systems.* To capture all the supportive potential Pink Pepper has to offer, consider adding a few drops to your favorite salad dressing, savory dish, or glass of water.
 

Bibliography
 

• Learn about how essential oils support the cardiovascular system.
   
• Read about monoterpenes and respiratory support.