Aromatherapy Carrier Oils – Why They Are Essential

Aromatherapy carrier oils sometimes get overlooked. When you are focused on getting the best essential oils, it’s easy to forget about the carrier oils. But these oils are every bit as essential and if you use the wrong one, you could turn an aromatherapy massage into an irritating experience.

It is important to remember why these aromatherapy carrier oils are so important. Like the name states, the carrier oils act as a carrier or base in order to carry or use the essential oils. Essential oils cannot be used as it is- remember that they are concentrated extracts so they can be pungent and have a burning effect on the skin if not used carefully. In order to use these oils, we have to have a carrier oil or base.

A carrier can come in many forms. Creams and lotions are popular bases but the most common carriers are oils. These are vegetable oils that are cold-pressed as heated oils do not have as many healing properties. These oils usually have no aroma and do not get easily absorbed into the skin- often they leave behind an oily residue. It is only the essential oils that need to be absorbed.

Know Your Carriers

There are a number of aromatherapy carrier oils used today. Before using them for a massage, it is imperative to make sure that the right essential oils are used with the right carriers. In order to do that, it helps to know the properties of different carriers. Almond oil, for example, is one of the most popular carriers in aromatherapy. However it is also on the oily side in terms of texture. Apricot Kernel oil is not only light it is easily absorbed into the skin and doesn’t leave any oily residue. This is often used in face massages.

Grape seed oil is another very popular carrier, mainly because of its scent. The carrier has a sweet, nutty aroma and is also very light and thin in consistency. Perhaps the most sought-after carrier oil is Hazelnut oil. This is very light oil with a fine texture and sweet aroma, thus making it a great choice for body and face massages.

Among all the carrier oils, there is one that is perhaps the most beneficial and healthy. Wheat Germ oil is an extremely rich source of vitamins D, E and A. The oil also contains a number of very important proteins and Lecithin. Because of these properties, this carrier oil in itself is good to use on cracked and dry skin.

Before using carrier oils on someone, it is very important to determine if that person has any allergies. If they have any kind of allergic reactions to seeds, nuts or fruits then you may have to find alternative carrier options, since most of these carriers come from seeds or nuts. While there won’t be any kind of full-fledged allergic reaction if you do use them, the person will probably feel irritation on the skin. This can turn a massage into an unpleasant experience.

The best essential oils in the world will be rendered useless if they don’t have the right kind of aromatherapy carrier oils. Take the time to find out what will work best for you. Understand the properties of different carriers and what they should be used for. This will help you make the most out of your aromatherapy carrier oils.