Diluting essential oils is an essential practice when it comes to using these powerful, concentrated substances safely and effectively. In this deep dive guide, we’ll unveil the secrets of diluting essential oils, exploring the “why,” the “how,” and the “how much” that will help you to achieve perfect results in every application. So, let’s dive in and discover the art of diluting essential oils and how it can improve your experience with these potent potions.
Table of Contents
Why Do We Dilute Essential Oils?
Essential oils are highly-concentrated, volatile substances obtained from plants. Due to their potency, it’s crucial to dilute them before application to minimize potential skin irritations, sensitivities, and other adverse effects. Dilution also helps extend the life of your oils, providing more applications from a single bottle.
Understanding Dilution Ratios
Dilution ratios refer to the amount of essential oil mixed with a carrier oil. The dilution ratio you choose depends on the purpose of the oil, the age and health of the user, and the type of oil being used. The general rule of thumb for healthy adults is to start with a 1-2% dilution and adjust based on individual needs.
How To Dilute Essential Oils
Carrier oils, also known as base oils or vegetable oils, are used to dilute essential oils and aid in their absorption into the skin. Common carrier oils include coconut oil, almond oil, grapeseed oil, and jojoba oil. To create a proper dilution, follow these steps:
1. Choose a suitable carrier oil based on your personal preferences or skin type.
2. Determine the appropriate dilution ratio for your desired application.
3. Measure and mix the essential oil and carrier oil together in a small container.
For a quick reference to dilution ratios, follow these guidelines:
– 1% dilution: Add 6 drops of essential oil to 1 oz (30 ml) of carrier oil.
– 2% dilution: Add 12 drops of essential oil to 1 oz (30 ml) of carrier oil.
– 3% dilution: Add 18 drops of essential oil to 1 oz (30 ml) of carrier oil.
Special Considerations for Dilution
Certain circumstances may call for diluted essential oils at different concentrations. Here are a few examples:
– Infants and young children: Use a 0.1-0.2% dilution (1-2 drops of essential oil per 1 oz of carrier oil).
– Elderly or individuals with sensitive skin: Use a 1% dilution (6 drops of essential oil per 1 oz of carrier oil).
– Pregnant or breastfeeding women: Consult healthcare professionals before using essential oils, and use a 2% dilution at most (12 drops of essential oil per 1 oz of carrier oil).
How Much To Dilute Essential Oils Example:
Imagine you’re looking to create a relaxing massage oil blend using lavender essential oil and sweet almond oil as your carrier. For a 2% dilution appropriate for healthy adults, you would:
1. Measure out 1 oz (30 ml) of sweet almond oil into a small container.
2. Add 12 drops of lavender essential oil (2% dilution).
3. Stir or shake the mixture well to ensure proper distribution of the essential oil.
Your soothing massage oil would be ready for use and could be stored in a dark glass bottle to extend its shelf life.
Now that you understand the importance and techniques of diluting essential oils, you can confidently create your own personalized blends for a multitude of uses. Share this knowledge by passing along this comprehensive guide to friends and family, and explore other essential oil resources on our Oshu Oils blog. Don’t forget to check out our range of artisan essential oils – each expertly crafted to bring balance and wellbeing into your life.
