Quantitative and qualitative evaluation of a multivitamin mineral herbal essential‐oil‐infused supplement: a pilot clinical trial

Abstract

A complete multivitamin mineral herbal omega 3 supplement infused with essential oils (product name Lifelong Vitality, LLV) has been reported by its users to increase energy levels, decrease pain, strengthen immunity and improve mental focus. This study was designed to quantitatively evaluate these effects through serum biomarkers and qualitatively by survey. Sixteen participants were recruited to take LLV as directed for two months. A blood sample was provided and a survey taken both before and after the 2 month supplementation period. The following were shown to improve significantly (p < 0.05): HDL cholesterol, LDL/HDL ratio, fasting insulin, homocysteine, serum vitamin E, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and arachidonic acid (AA)/EPA ratio. This demonstrated that the LLV had significant positive effects on biochemical indicators for cardiovascular health, antioxidant status, markers of inflammation, and blood sugar regulation. In the 16 ‐ item qualitative survey, after two months of LLV supplementation all results were improved positively; 12 of them were statistically significant. The participants reported more mental clarity, energy, motivation, control, balance, and happiness, while reporting less back pain, muscle pain, colds and flu occurrence, anxiety, frustration and irritation at the end of 2 ‐ month supplementation. These results suggest that the supplement may provide a broad range of health benefits for its users in a short period of time, though a larger study should be conducted to verify.Support or Funding InformationThis study was supported by doTERRA International, LLC, Pleasant Grove, Utah.