Carrier oils are usually overlooked because they don’t contain the therapeutic constituents of other essential oils, but they can play an indispensable companion of topically applied oils. Let’s take a closer look at these carriers and why they deserve a place on the shelf of anyone who uses and loves essential oils.
Carrier oils are naturally derived from vegetarian sources and have a neutral smell. They aren’t volatile like essential oils, which makes them an excellent medium for dilution and application.
Vegetable shortening, butter, and margarine are best left in the kitchen—they’re not intended for topical use. Mineral oil and other petroleum derivatives like petroleum jelly should also not be used as carrier oils.
Essential oils are volatile, which means they evaporate rapidly and contain the natural smell and characteristics of the plant. This can make them too strong to apply undiluted. Carrier oils do not evaporate or have a strong aroma, making them the perfect pair for diluting especially strong essential oils—reducing the concentration of the essential oil without altering its therapeutic qualities. When you dilute an essential oil with a carrier oil, you can also control its concentration before applying.
Like other substances that are high in fat, carrier oils have a limited shelf life, meaning that eventually they can go bad. Depending on the type, oils with a short shelf life should typically be used within six months, while oils with a longer shelf life may stay good for up to a year. It’s important to store oils in their original air-tight containers in a cool, dark place, such as the pantry, to maximize shelf life.
Carrier oils can vary widely in their consistency, absorption, aroma, shelf life, and other characteristics. Carrier oils can be blended to change or combine their properties, so you can mix and match until you find the blend that’s just right for you!
**Caution: May cause a reaction to those with nut allergies.
*Caution: May cause a reaction to those with nut allergies.
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Is there a printable view of this so I can have it for reference and education?
There isn't at the moment, Danna. In the meantime, feel free to print the article from the website itself, or copy/paste it into a document and save or print. Hope this helps!
I use grape seed and vita e oil the most.
I have read that carrier oils need to be cold processed. I have and use the V6 and the Ortho Ease regularly, but would like to try others. I have not found anything that says "cold processed." Can you tell me if that is important please. Thank You! And what is the shelf life on the V6 and Ortho Ease?
Hi Penny! According to our research, cold pressed carrier oils are best as they retain their aroma, flavor and value. V-6 is a blend of several different cold pressed oils as well a fractionated coconut oil. The crude coconut oil is cold pressed and then controlled distillation is used to fractionate (extract/separate/collect) the medium chain fatty acids. The purpose of extracting and using the fractionated coconut oil is to extend product stability and to reduce staining.
Ortho Ease is the same base as V-6 with added essential oils.
Based on our current testing, V-6 and Ortho Ease have a shelf life of approximately 2 years.
Hope this is helpful!
I use V6 the most. Also fractionated Coconut Oil, Sweet Almond Oil & Avocado Oil. Ortho Ease is a wonderful massage oil.
Is there any reason why I can not use pure emu oil or pure Ostrich oil as a carrier oil.I know that they have many healing benefits to them. I have used then with my essential oils and have found that the work great. My grandchildren love them and have seen the benefits of using them both together. I am just curious whether you have check them out?
Hi Joan! At this time, we have not been working with emu or ostrich oil. We appreciate you taking the time to share your experience with us! We'll forward this information on to the appropriate department for future consideration.
I keep a few different carriers on hand, grape seed oil if I'm making a roller ball (I like how it isn't overly greasy), coconut oil if I'm trying to moisturize my skin at the same time! Olive oil works great for when I'm making creams to thin it out. Shea butter I also use when making creams and stuff
How much grape seed oil do u put in the roller balls
Can I use grape seed oils that I use for cooking or it has to be specially made as carrier oils?
Hi Selyn! Food grade grape seed oil is appropriate to use as a carrier oil if you would like.
I do do terra oils and have heard great things on your oils and would love to learn more about you. Can you send me some info on your oils and what they do. Thank you so much. I am considering switching.
Lynda Veazie
Hi Lynda, I would love to tell you about our terrific products and company and help you understand the difference. Just email me, and I can help you get started. lavonnewalter@gmail.com
Hi Lynda! Glad you stopped by! Take a look at our 2015 Product Guide for more information: https://issuu.com/youngliving/docs/2015_productguide_online?e=2440491/9771116. Feel free to explore our website at http://www.youngliving.com, too. If we can help answer any questions, please reach out to us by phone, email, or chat: https://www.youngliving.com/us/en/company/contact-us
Hi, Lynda. I just wanted to follow up and check in with you. Did you find the information you were looking for?
What about Vegetable Glycerine?
Hi Kathy! Sure! You may use vegetable glycerine as a carrier oil if you would like. Many individuals use vegetable glycerine in conjunction with essential oils.
I saw a recipe for hair detangler which called for vegetable glycerine. I'm wondering if V6 could be used as a substitute. Thanks!
Thanks for your question, Sarah. You may use V-6 as an alternative if you choose; however, we cannot guarantee similar results as we have not tested the recipe with V-6 specifically.
We also love avocado oil!