Carrier Oils

Essential oils need to be diluted before use as they are highly concentrated and cannot be applied directly on the skin in their pure state. Seeing as they do not dissolve in water they need to be dissolved in a neutral vegetable oil known as a carrier oil.

There are other substances however that may be used to dissolve essential oils; these include vinegar, honey, milk, cream, clay, salt, alcohol, egg yolk.

Although most carrier oils are solely used to dilute the essential oils, some may have therapeutic properties themselves. The best and most suitable carrier oils are vegetable oils extracted from fruits and seeds of oily plants as these have a natural affinity with the skin, do not cause irritation, moisturise the skin and do not block the skin pores.

Some of the most used carrier oils are:
Sweet Almond Oil: The oil is good for application to the skin as an emollient, because it is more stable (does not become rancid) than those oils that have a higher content of essential fatty acids, and because it has a pleasant aroma. It is a mild, lightweight oil that can be used as a substitute for olive oil.

Avocado Oil: Avocado oil is one of the natural oils that is the most easily absorbed by the skin and transported deep into the tissue. Its wonderful emollient and hydrating properties makes it ideal for dry, dehydrated or mature skins. Furthermore, it also helps to relieve the dryness and itching of psoriasis and eczema.

Jojoba Oil: is well-known as medicinal oil used for treating eye and throat infections and skin disorders. This odourless oil makes it an ideal base for perfumes, facial products, shampoos, conditioners and suntan lotions.

A naturally occurring ester, Jojoba oil is really a liquid wax.  The oil is similar to our own sebum which is secreted by our sebaceous glands and helps to lubricate and protect your skin and hair.  Jojoba oil is an excellent emollient and lubricant making it a popular ingredient in massage products.

Wheat Germ Oil: a nourishing regenerative moisturiser that protects the skin from sun damage. It is frequently blended with other carrier oils to prolong its shelf life.

Sesame Seed Oil: a great toner preventing flaccidity of the skin and protecting from the suns harmful rays. It is often blended with other oils to enrich them.

Hazelnut Oil: suitable for oily skins and effective against acne. A  nourishing and penetrating oil that also helps close the skin pores making this an excellent carrier oil.

Coconut Oil: excellent carrier oil especially suitable for tired and debilitated skins.
 
Essential oils should be used with extreme caution as they may have a toxic effect or cause nausea when used carelessly (see Precautions).

For your own sake please be sure to dilute the essential oils by following these general guidelines:

Massage:
15-20 drops of essential oil to 60ml (12 teaspoons) of carrier oil.
7-10 drops of essential oil to 30ml (6 teaspoons) of carrier oil.
3-5 drops of essential oil to 5ml (3 teaspoons) of carrier oil.

Bath:
8-10 drops of essential oil (maximum), previously diluted in milk.

Inhalation:
5-8 drops of essential oil in a vaporiser or in a bowl with hot water

Compress:
3-5 drops of essential oil in a bowl with hot or cold water depending on the treatment

Foot bath:
3-5 drops of essential oil in a basin with hot water, leave your feet in the water in until it turns cold. 

The information presented here is purely informative and introductory.
Before starting any treatment we strongly advise you to consult your doctor or qualified practitioner