Aromatherapy Carrier Oils

Carrier oils are vegetable oils that are often mixed with essential aromatherapy oils during massage. Often referred to as base oils, these are oils extracted from nuts, legumes and seeds.

Available in a variety of flavors these are the most common mediums used in aromatherapy massages.

Benefits of Carrier Oils

• Essential oils are available in concentrated forms and should not be used directly. Mixed with carrier oils, you can safely use it for aromatherapy massages.
• The lubricating action provided by these base oils allow for free movement of your hands.
• Carrier oils contain essentials vitamins and minerals that is good for your skin. Some of the carrier oils are also effective against certain skin rashes and other similar conditions.

Types of Aromatherapy Carrier Oils

Some of the popularly used Aromatherapy Carrier Oils are:

• Almond oil
• Avocado oil
• Jojoba oil
• Coconut oil
• Grape seed oil
• peanut oil
• Apricot Kernel
• Sunflower oil
• Borage oil
• Hazel nut oil
• Olive oil
• Sesame oil
• Evening primrose

Tips on Aromatherapy Carrier Oils

• It is better to go in for unrefined oil (if available). Unrefined oil, though unusable for other purposes is ideal for aromatherapy use.
• It is better to choose a oil that does not have a fragrance.
• Choose a base oil that best suites your purpose. A thorough study of the properties of the oils is useful.
• Carrier oils like peach, apricot and sweet almond are good for body and facial massage.
• Borage, jojoba, blackseed and evening primrose oils are good for facial treatments.
• Choose a oil that best suites your skin type. For instance hazelnut, grape seed and unrefined coconut oils are best used for oily skin tone.