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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What about soybean oil?
Hi Maggie,
Soybean oil can be applied topically. Although, if you have concerns about it's use, we recommend seeing a dermatologist before trying it. Thanks for stopping by!
i have just received my order of endo flex. I am new to oil world and did not know this needed to be used with a carrier oil. learning what that means in reading the above. If I were to mix with the olive oil i have until i order some of the v-6 what is the ratio of EVOO to endoflex? thank you1
Hi Jeannie, Great question. It is recommended to dilute 1 drop of EndoFlex™ with 1 drop of carrier oil, then apply to desired area. Thanks for stopping by!
Hi, I have made my own car air freshener (crocheted sachet/bag and soft toy filling), Im using essential oils and a carrier oil (almond oil) but the smell of the essential oil fades to a point of no smell in a couple of days, does anybody know if im doing something wrong or if im using the wrong carrier oil. Any suggestions would be appreciated.
Thanks x
Hello,
Has anyone ever considered using Avocado Oil? Can that also be considered a Carrier Oil ?
Hi Bernadette, Great question. Avocado oil can be used as a carrier oil if you like! Thanks for stopping by!
Hello... I want to try and make pepperiment oil wondering what the best carrier oil would be to use ..
Hey Jennifer,
Many oils will work with Peppermint oil. A carrier oil that works well with it in particular is grapeseed oil. It has a high linoleic acid content and helps with moisturizing.
Thanks for stopping by with your question!
Is vegetable glycerine a good carrier oil to use?
Hi Donna, Vegetable glycerin can be used as a carrier oil if you like! Thanks for stopping by!
can i mix jojoba, sweet almond, rosehip, avocado and olive oil carrier oils for skin moisturizing purposes?
Hi Ndeojen, You are more than welcome to create your own carrier oil blend and add your favorite essential oils! You could also use our V-6™ Vegetable Oil Complex which is pre-mixed and ready to create custom blends, formulas and massage oils. Thanks for stopping by with your question!
Hi, I am just getting introduced to essential and carrier oils, though i have been using coconut, olive and castor oils for my hair and body (not on my face) since many years now. So, I am quite confused about how to use these oils: the best way to mix them, which oils to mix for what purpose, and how best to use them. Kindly throw some light?
Hi Aparajita, We recommend referring to the individual product labels for usage directions. We offer descriptions and suggested usage of our products on our website. Thanks for stopping by!
Hi
Can i use rose oil directly?i mean undiluted? If no then please suggest me some carrier oil.
Thanks
Hi Naveet, Great question. Dilution is not required for the use of Rose, except for the most sensitive skin. Please refer to the label for usage directions. Thanks for stopping by!
Could I mix Hemp Oil, Coconut Oil, Argan Oil and Vitamin E for a skin and hair applicator?
Hi James, You are more than welcome to create your own carrier oil blend and add your favorite essential oils! You could also use our V-6™ Vegetable Oil Complex which is pre-mixed and ready to create custom blends, formulas and massage oils. Thanks for stopping by with your question!