Episode 322: 80% of Lavender Oils Are Fake | Here’s What Makes doTERRA Different

In this episode of the doTERRA podcast, Dr. Brannick Riggs and Dr. Russell Osguthorpe unpack the science, quality standards, and sourcing ethics that make doTERRA Lavender essential oil so different from what you’ll find in most stores. From fake oils to batch consistency, this episode is packed with eye-opening insights and useful ways to bring Lavender essential oil into your daily life.

Watch or listen to the full episode for the complete science breakdown and real-life Lavender essential oil tips!

Wait, Most Lavender Oils Aren’t Actually Lavender?

Yes, you read that right. Dr. Riggs opened the episode by sharing a staggering statistic:

“Over 80% of the lavender [oil] sold on the market today is not actually lavender.”

And that isn’t speculation. It’s backed by published research from the National Center for Natural Products Research and confirmed by doTERRA testing teams.

So why fake something as affordable as lavender? Dr. Osguthorpe explained that, even with inexpensive oils, companies can still increase profit margins by cutting corners and adding synthetics, fillers, or petrochemical ingredients that compromise both safety and effectiveness.

“If you don’t know what’s in your bottle, you can’t use it safely,” said Dr. Osguthorpe.

Adulterated oils can trigger allergies, irritate skin, or just flat-out not work. That’s why quality and trust matters.

Consistency Is Key (And Rare in This Industry)

One of the biggest takeaways from the episode is consistency isn’t just a bonus—it’s a requirement for real results.

“Unless your lavender [oil] is consistent in chemistry year to year—batch to batch—you can’t rely on it the same way,” Dr. Riggs said.

What’s wild is how tight doTERRA controls actually are. Most pharmaceuticals allow a 5% variance in active ingredient dosage. But with doTERRA, linalool—the main constituent in doTERRA Lavender essential oil—only varies by about 1%. That’s tighter control than most medications!

How doTERRA Makes It Happen

It all comes down to Co-Impact Sourcing^®—a model that’s about quality and doing good in the world.

doTERRA sources lavender plants from multiple farms around the world. This global approach means oils from different regions can be blended to minimize environmental variability.

If one region gets less rain, another one balances it out. The result? A consistent, reliable essential oil every single time.

“We didn’t set out to solve the consistency problem,” Dr. Osguthorpe shared. “We wanted to source ethically. But in doing that, we also solved what many thought was impossible.”

How to Use Lavender Every Day

Beyond the in-depth science, this episode was full of personal, relatable ways to use Lavender essential oil in everyday life. Here are a few favorites from the doctors and hosts:

1. Bedtime Routines for Kids and Parents

Dr. Riggs shared a family favorite:

“We put Lavender [oil] on our kids’ feet at night. It’s not just about sleep. It’s a moment of connection, of physical touch, of checking in.”

Diffuse it in the bedroom or apply diluted Lavender essential oil to the feet, temples, or wrists as part of a nightly wind-down.

2. Skin-Soothing Support

From bug bites to minor scrapes, Lavender essential oil has been known to calm the skin.

“My boys are constantly coming in from outside covered in bumps and scratches. Lavender is our go-to.”—Dr. Riggs

3. DIY Dryer Balls

A surprise Lavender essential oil use from the episode? Adding a few drops to wool dryer balls before tossing them in the dryer.

Your clothes come out smelling amazing, and you get a light floral scent following you throughout the day!

“You basically become your own personal diffuser.”

Why It Matters

Lavender has long been celebrated for its relaxing aroma, skin-calming benefits, and ability to support everyday wellness routines. But if the oil isn’t pure or isn’t even really lavender, it can’t deliver on those benefits.

That’s why doTERRA sourcing practices, quality testing, and commitment to purity make all the difference.

“When you buy a bottle of doTERRA Lavender [oil], you know what’s inside. And that means you can use it confidently—every time,” said Dr. Osguthorpe.

How Do You Use Lavender Essential Oil?

Whether it’s in your bedtime diffuser or your laundry room, Lavender is one of the most versatile essential oils around. How do you use it in your daily routine?