Essential oils are very strong, concentrated plant extract, so always remember to dilute your aromatherapeutic essential oils. Also check out, Why do we use Carrier Oil in Aromatherapy?
Now, let us examine the main types of carrier oils and what their benefits are in aromatherapy. Three most common carrier oils are coconut oil, jojoba oil, and olive oil. In addition to their ease of availability and intrinsic odor, a key difference between them is their shelf life.
Coconut oil can be used in aromatherapy to create a soothing aroma. Depending on the type of coconut oil used, it can lend a mild coconut aroma to your mix. This can be appealing to many people- reminding them at a subtle level, of the sub-tropical beach islands and good old vacation times!
Now, let us examine the main types of carrier oils and what their benefits are in aromatherapy. Three most common carrier oils are coconut oil, jojoba oil, and olive oil. In addition to their ease of availability and intrinsic odor, a key difference between them is their shelf life.
Coconut oil can be used in aromatherapy to create a soothing aroma. Depending on the type of coconut oil used, it can lend a mild coconut aroma to your mix. This can be appealing to many people- reminding them at a subtle level, of the sub-tropical beach islands and good old vacation times!
Jojoba oil is waxy in its consistency. It does not have any strong intrinsic smell, but does have a five-year shelf-life. Because of this, it is considered one of the best carrier oils in aromatherapy. But, because it is a bit thick and waxy, jojoba oil is typically mixed with coconut oil to improve its consistency and ease of application, particularly when using it for aromatherapeutic massage.
Sweet almond oil is another excellent choice for carrier oil in aromatherapy. Its nutty scent can be very appealing and can blend well with a variety of essential oils. It blends particularly very well with many floral essential oils. It has a light consistency and many nutritional benefits for the skin (even with external application). Sweet almond oil is believed to counteract and heal dry skin and so is a great choice for skin care. In fact, you will frequently find sweet almond oil being used in many skin care products such as lotions, creams, and body waxes.
Then we also have carrier oils choices like olive or sunflower oil. They have a strong odor which can be quite off-putting for most people… reminding them of a Mediterranean kitchen instead of an aromatherapeutic spa! They also tend to have a 'greasier' feel to them, compared to other options like jojoba oil mixed with sweet almond or coconut oil. But on the other hand, these oils are easily available and comparatively much cheaper in cost.
Most vegetable oils sold in grocery stores are not cold-pressed or unrefined. They are heated and/or chemically processed, and do not provide the same benefits as cold-pressed or organic carrier oils. Any good aromatherapy retailer or a natural skin care supplier should be able to provide you with quality carrier oils.
Some other carrier oils which are particularly appreciated for their skin emolliating benefits are rose hip and argan oils.
Depending on your use, budget and ease of availability, there are always several carrier oil options for your various aromatherapeutic needs. Always remember to dilute your essential oils, particularly when you utilize them for skin and hair care!
Sweet almond oil is another excellent choice for carrier oil in aromatherapy. Its nutty scent can be very appealing and can blend well with a variety of essential oils. It blends particularly very well with many floral essential oils. It has a light consistency and many nutritional benefits for the skin (even with external application). Sweet almond oil is believed to counteract and heal dry skin and so is a great choice for skin care. In fact, you will frequently find sweet almond oil being used in many skin care products such as lotions, creams, and body waxes.
Then we also have carrier oils choices like olive or sunflower oil. They have a strong odor which can be quite off-putting for most people… reminding them of a Mediterranean kitchen instead of an aromatherapeutic spa! They also tend to have a 'greasier' feel to them, compared to other options like jojoba oil mixed with sweet almond or coconut oil. But on the other hand, these oils are easily available and comparatively much cheaper in cost.
Most vegetable oils sold in grocery stores are not cold-pressed or unrefined. They are heated and/or chemically processed, and do not provide the same benefits as cold-pressed or organic carrier oils. Any good aromatherapy retailer or a natural skin care supplier should be able to provide you with quality carrier oils.
Some other carrier oils which are particularly appreciated for their skin emolliating benefits are rose hip and argan oils.
Depending on your use, budget and ease of availability, there are always several carrier oil options for your various aromatherapeutic needs. Always remember to dilute your essential oils, particularly when you utilize them for skin and hair care!
continue reading...
- Understanding the Basics of Aromatherapy
- Why do we use Carrier Oil in Aromatherapy?
- How Essential Oils can be utilized for their beneficial effects on Chakras
- Difference between Hydrosols and Aromatic Waters- how they can offer a cheap and effective way to incorporate the many healing benefits of Aromatherapy!!
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