Carrier Oils-An Essential Oils Best Friend

In aromatherapy you will hear the word carrier oils A LOT because the majority of essential oils should not be placed directly on your skin. This does not mean that essential oils are not safe to use. This just means that a carrier oil of your choice needs to be paired with the essential oil in order to dilute the concentration.

Carrier oils are extracted from kernels, seeds, nuts, and various parts of plants and typically do not smell very strong or hold as high of therapeutic properties like essential oils. But, when blended together, carrier oils and essential oils work perfectly together like PB & J! The carrier oil dilutes the essential oil without minimizing the healthy and natural benefits of the essential oil, allowing it to be placed safely on the body. The majority of pure essential oils are so potent that they have the potential to burn and irritate your skin and carrier oils remedy this problem. For example, an essential oil like orange by itself has a strong potential to cause high sensitivity and burning on the skin. Add two parts of a carrier like coconut oil and it’s now safe to use on the skin!

Common Carrier Oils Include:

·         Jojoba Oil

·         Coconut Oil

·         Olive Oil

·         Sunflower Oil

·         Hemp Oil

·         Almond Oil

·         Flaxseed Oil

·         Hazelnut Oil

·         Sesame Oil

·         Grapeseed Oil

Like essential oils, not all carrier oils are created equal. Key words you are looking for when it comes to purchasing therapeutic-grade carrier oils are “organic” and “unrefined food grade oils” that are safe for human consumption. This means that through the organic growing process the carrier oil is free of preservatives and harmful chemical additives. If you care enough to seek out organic lab grade essential oils, take the time to find quality grade carrier oils also!

When mixing your essential oil with a carrier oil, keep in mind that different oils create different consistencies.  For instance, grapeseed oil feels light and leaves a glossy-like finish on the skin. Whereas, almond oil has a heavier feel and absorbs into the skin fairly quickly. Find combinations that you like and have fun with it because carrier oils are essential oils’ best friend!

-C.E.H private natural body