Carrier oils also referred to as base oils or vegetable oils are used
to dilute essential oils, CO2s and absolutes before applying to the
skin. They “carry” the essential oil onto the skin. Different carrier
oils offer different properties and the choice of carrier oil can depend
on the therapeutic benefit being sought.
Carrier oils are generally cold-pressed vegetable oils derived from
the fatty portions of the plant. Unlike essential oils that evaporate
and have a concentrated aroma, carrier oils do not evaporate or impart
their aroma as strongly as essential oils.
Examples of carrier oils are sweet almond, apricot kernel, grapeseed,
avacado, peanut, olive, pecan, macadamia nut, sesame, evening primrose,
walnut and wheat germ. Most oils bought in the grocery store are not
cold-pressed, but instead are heated thus losr therapeutic benefit.
Mineral oil is not used in aromatherapy since mineral oil is not a natural
product. It is also said that mineral oil can prevent essential oil
absorption into the skin.
Unlike essential oils that do not go rancid, carrier oils can go rancid.
Carrier oils that you purchase should be natural and unadulterated.
Exceptions include buying carrier oils that have natural vitamin E added
because vitamin E acts as a natural preservative.
See the
Carrier
Oils page located within the
Oil
Profiles area for a detailed list of carrier oils.
Total Cost: Rs. 0.00
