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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I was wondering how far in advance can you make up a capsule? How long do they last once they are made?
Hi Valerie, Great question! When preparing the capsules, you would want to prepare them as needed or they will begin to dissolve. Thanks for stopping by!
Hi, can I mix Frankincense oil with hemp oil? Is hemp oil considered a carrier oil?
Hi Patty, You are welcome to blend the essential oils with other natural plant based oils of your choosing. Hemp seed oil is considered a carrier oil that could be used with essential oils such as Frankincense. Thanks for stopping by with your question!
What are your views on Argan oil as a carrier oil?
Can I mix sweet almond oil with grape seed oil to apply on my skin?
Hi Patchara, 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!
I love Apricot kernel oil for face serums, fractionated coconut oil for roll-ons, cold pressed coconut oil for body lotions/butters.
can i use grapeseed oil as a base oil for my tea tree oil peppermint oil and lemon oil? please suggest.
Hi Suchita, Yes Grapeseed oil is an excellent choice for a carrier oil as it is high in linoleic acid and moisturizing. Thanks for stopping by with your question!
I keep coconut oil, sweet almond oil, shea butter, and jojoba oil. Coconut & sweet almond oil are the oils I use most often with my essential oils.
Is it necessary to dilute Wheat Germ Oil, which is also a carrier oil, before application?
Hi Anna, It is not necessary to dilute Wheat Germ Oil with another carrier oil prior to application. Thanks for stopping by!
Hi, just starting oils so please bear with me :) Two questions: Is this oil gluten free? My other question, if I am using V-6 as a carrier oil in samples so I can stretch my oils further, can the samples be diffused or no? Thank you for your help!
Hello Karen, V-6™ is not considered gluten free as it contains wheat germ oil. Most of our Diffusers are compatible with diluted essential oils. Please refer to your diffuser manual for specific care and usage instructions.
hi
thanks for this article very informative ..
which do you think would be the best carrier oil to use to mix with turmeric with my intention of improving my blood circulation?
Hi Cyntha, As carrier oils have varying characteristics you may want to try out a few to find the one that's best for you. We recommend referring to the product label for usage directions. Thanks for stopping by with your question!