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What is a carrier oil and Why do we use them?

Carrier oils, also referred to as base oils or vegetable oils, are used to dilute essential oils and absolutes before applying to the skin. They “carry” the essential oil onto the skin. Different carrier oils offer different properties and the choice of carrier oil can depend on the therapeutic benefit being sought.

Carrier oils are generally cold-pressed vegetable oils derived from the fatty portions of the plant. Unlike essential oils that evaporate and have a concentrated aroma, carrier oils do not evaporate or impart their aroma as strongly as essential oils, if at all. Essential oils are added to carrier oils to impart both a scent and their healing properties.

Examples of carrier oils are sweet almond, coconut, apricot kernel, avocado, evening primrose, jojoba and others. Most oils bought in the grocery store are not cold-pressed. These oils are heated and therefore have less therapeutic benefit. Mineral oil is not used in aromatherapy because mineral oil is not a natural product. It is also said that mineral oil can prevent essential oil absorption into the skin. Baby oil is often made of mineral oil, surprisingly enough!