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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Hi, I live in a tropical country, is it okay to store grapeseed oil in the fridge? Thanks!
Hi Liza, As we do not carry grapeseed oil we are not able to comment. You may want to contact the manufacturer with this question. Thanks for stopping by!
Can you tell me if Tamanu carrier oil is a good one. It does have a smell to it. So great for acne.
Hi Ali, Tamanu carrier oil should be great to use as an alternative. Thanks for stopping by!
I have squalane oil and I love it because it's not as greasy as coconut oil, can I use that as a carrier oil? If not what is a good non- greasy liquid option for roller balls?
Can i use moringa oil to dilute my eo?
Hello Carli, You are more than welcome to use Squalane oil that is naturally derived from a vegetarian sources.
Thoughts on using all natural organic aloe vera gel as a carrier?
Hi Allison, Aloe vera can be used as a carrier oil if you would prefer!
Since I am Gluten-Free, I cannot use the v-6 carrier oil, is that correct?
I typically use grape seed oil, Argan oil, or mostly use coconut oil.....
Hi Deb, Correct the V-6™ oil does contain gluten derived ingredients. We apologize for any inconvenience!
What about avocado oil? thanks
Hi Janice, You are more than welcome to try using avocado oil if you prefer!
How about castor oil?
Hi Cindy, Castor oil can be used as a carrier oil as well. Thanks for stopping by!
What's the best carrier oil to help with muscle and joint pain, and what oil is best for that. Thanks
Hi Shirley, We recommend viewing our Joint & Mobility products and discussing the products with your healthcare provider before beginning use!
Can you dilute too much therefore changing the efficacy?
Hi Deb, Diluting an oil will affect the concentration of the oil, however the therapeutic value and benefits will remain. We recommend referring to the individual oil bottle label for dilution instructions.
Is it okay to use V-6 oil to cook with? Sometimes we will use a little grape seed oil to fry an egg so I was wondering since all oils in V-6 are food if you use to cook with.
Hi Marisa, Our V-6™ Vegetable Oil Complex is for external use only and labeled for topical application. Thanks for stopping by with your question!