As I’ve discussed before, it’s imperative that you dilute essential oils prior to use. Although water, lotions and creams can be used for this purpose, carrier oils are one of the most popular and beneficial ways to practice dilution. But did you know that carrier oils provide more than just a way to apply blends directly to your body?
Since carrier oils contain fatty acids that are essential to our bodies and can only be obtained from outside sources, using these oils can help our bodies maintain vital functions. These functions include providing warmth, protection and healthy cellular function. Applying carrier oils externally is a nice change from how our bodies process the nutrients we gain from food.
Speaking of food, you may recognize the terms unsaturated and saturated from the items you buy at the grocery store. Other than Coconut, all of the carrier oils I carry are unsaturated, meaning that the carbon molecules in these fats are double bonded and that they’re liquid at room temperature. Saturated fats on the other hand don’t bond to other carbon molecules and are generally solid at room temperature. The fractionated Coconut oil that I carry has been altered to remain liquid while still maintaining all the nutrients of unfractionated Coconut oil.
Now that you know a little more about carrier oils, it’s easier to understand how they not only help the application of essential oils, but amplify the benefits your body receives. Since carrier oils are thicker than their more aromatic counterparts, the oils will stay within the body longer, thus elongating the effects on your body. Carrier and essential oils work together to create more stable and healing blends.
Beyond knowing the science behind carrier oils, it’s important to understand that each oil has different attributes and can aid various conditions. This way you can select which oils best suit your needs or a particular blend. Since they differ in scent and thickness, this can also be a factor in what one is best.
There are three categories that carrier oils can be divided into: massage, facial care and body care. Although other carrier oils can be used in these applications, here is a list of the best ones for the job.
Massage: Almond, Coconut, Hemp and Sunflower
Facial: Apricot
Body: Avocado, Grapeseed and Jojoba
Carrier oils can be applied either directly to the skin or added to your favorite blend. Keep this in mind: your skin is your largest organ and applying these nutrient-rich oils directly to it can help maintain elasticity, vitality and moisture. So no matter what way you choose, know that your body will thank you!
*For informational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
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2 comments
I recently purchased your carrier oils and I have a daughter with eczema really bad on the back of her legs and buttocks area can you please suggest how to use the carrier oils to help her out.
Hi Virginia! What carrier oils did you buy? Almond is particularly great for eczema. If you’re just using the oils by themselves, I recommend pouring about a tablespoon of oil into your hand and gently massaging into your daughter’s skin, waiting a few minutes before covering with fabric. You should repeat this daily.
If you would like to add essential oils to your carrier oil, I would suggest Patchouli or Lavender. These two oils are gentle and soothing. You should add about 3 drops for every tablespoon of carrier oil. Hope this helps!