Peppermint vs Spearmint
Peppermint and Spearmint are both minty essential oils. Peppermint carries a top note (cool, sharp), while Spearmint sits as a top note (soft, minty). For topical use, keep Peppermint at or below 5.4% and Spearmint at 5%.
| Attribute | Peppermint | Spearmint |
|---|---|---|
| Latin name | Mentha x piperita | Mentha spicata |
| Aroma family | Minty | Minty |
| Perfumery note | Top | Top |
| Aroma | cool, sharp | soft, minty |
| Chemical family | Monoterpenol | Ketone |
| Max topical dilution | 5.4% | 5% |
| Max facial dilution | 2% | 2.5% |
| Pregnancy | Not recommended | Generally suitable (well diluted) |
| Children | Not recommended | Generally suitable (well diluted) |
| Pets | Not recommended | Not recommended |
| Extraction | Steam distillation | Steam distillation |
Work out exact drops with the dilution calculator for your bottle size.
Frequently asked questions
What's the difference between Peppermint and Spearmint?
Peppermint and Spearmint are both minty essential oils. Peppermint carries a top note (cool, sharp), while Spearmint sits as a top note (soft, minty). For topical use, keep Peppermint at or below 5.4% and Spearmint at 5%.
Can you blend Peppermint and Spearmint together?
They can be combined, but Peppermint and Spearmint aren't a classic pairing — start with small amounts and adjust to taste.
Which is better during pregnancy, Peppermint or Spearmint?
Spearmint is generally considered more suitable during pregnancy when properly diluted, whereas Peppermint is not recommended. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.
For education only — not medical or veterinary advice. Always patch-test and consult a qualified professional before use during pregnancy, on children, with pets, or with a health condition.