Diluting essential oils is an important skill for any aromatherapy enthusiast. Not only does it allow you to use the essential oils in a safe and responsible way, but it also helps you to get the most out of your oils.
There are various methods to dilute essential oils, and this guide will cover all the main factors and techniques to help you find the best way to dilute your essential oils.
What are essential oils?
Essential oils are natural aromatic compounds that are found in plants, flowers, trees, and other organic sources. Although essential oils have been used for centuries for health, beauty, spiritual and ritualistic purposes, their popularity has grown exponentially over the past few decades.
Essential oils are a concentrated and potent form of natural plant extract that distill the therapeutic properties of each individual plant or flower they come from into powerful liquids or solids that can be used on their own or blended to create custom concoctions.
When using essential oils topically on the skin, it is important to properly dilute them in order to avoid any potential irritation or sensitivity. Diluting essential oils with a carrier oil (such as sweet almond oil or jojoba oil) reduces the potency while still allowing you to enjoy their extraordinary healing properties.
By knowing just how to properly dilute essential oils according to your needs and objectives, you can get the most out of this amazing natural resource safely and effectively.
What are carrier oils?
Carrier oils are vegetable-derived oils that are used to gently dilute or “carry” essential oils before they are applied to the skin. These oils do not evaporate and can provide nourishing benefits to your skin while the essential oil provides its fragrance and healing properties. The most common carrier oils are almond oil, avocado oil, coconut oil, grapeseed oil, hazelnut oil, jojoba oil, sunflower seed oil, shea butter, and olive oil.
Carrier oils are made from cold-pressed nuts or seeds from plants like avocados, olives, almonds, and coconuts. They contain different constituents that benefit the skin: fatty acids such as oleic acid (Omega 9), linoleic acid (Omega 6), or alpha-linolenic acid (Omega 3). These as well as other substances such as antioxidants (Vitamin E) can benefit your body when applied with aromatherapy.
When using carrier oils in aromatherapy it is important to understand what type of fatty acids they contain and how they help you while diluting your essential oils. Remember that certain types of carrier oils provide more fatty acids than others, so it’s important to choose the right type for your needs.
Additionally buying organic carrier products helps ensure a more pure product free from pesticides or toxins that could potentially harm you if absorbed through your skin when you mix them with essential oils for massage purposes.
Dilution Ratios
Diluting essential oils with carrier oil is an important step to ensure safe and effective use. Diluting essential oils helps spread the oil over a larger area, lowers the risk of side effects, and ensures that the strength of the oil is appropriate for the user.
It is also important to understand dilution ratios in order to stay safe and be confident in using essential oils. In this guide, we will explore different dilution ratios, how to use them, and why they are important.
Dilution ratios for adults
When it comes to diluting essential oils, there are a few different dilution ratios that are typically used. For adults, a 1% dilution ratio is recommended. This is equal to 1 drop of essential oil for every teaspoon of carrier oil. Another commonly used dilution ratio is 3%.
This would mean 3 drops of essential oil per teaspoon of carrier oil and is often used for more sensitive individuals who may not be able to tolerate a 1% solution or if the desired therapeutic effect requires this stronger concentration.
For those with chronic ailments or acute medical conditions, the 5% concentration might be considered. It would involve five drops of essential oils for each teaspoon of carrier oil and closely mimics certain traditional medicine treatments.
Depending upon the individual and condition, concentrations as high as 10%, 20%, and 30%, can sometimes be recommended however this should always be discussed with an expert in aromatherapy/essential oils prior to use as safety concerns can arise with higher concentrations when not monitored closely.
Aroma therapists will often recommend different ratios for specific conditions such as skin care or pain management, but generally speaking, these ratios should provide guidance based on standard guidelines.
Dilution ratios for children
When using essential oils on children, it is important to utilize appropriate dilution ratios. Children come into contact with essential oils differently than adults and their skin is more sensitive. Diluting essential oils correctly enables the child to benefit from the therapeutic properties without risking potential sensitization or skin irritation.
Essential oil dilution for children can vary depending on the age of the child and any underlying medical conditions they may have. Below are some general guidelines based on the age of your child.
-Infants (up to 1 year): 1% or less dilution – 2 drops of essential oil per 1 teaspoon (5ml) of carrier oil
-Toddlers (1-3 years): 0.25%-1% dilution – 4 drops maximum to a teaspoon (5ml) of carrier oil
-Children (4-10 years): 0.5%-1% dilution – 4 drops maximum per teaspoon (5ml) of carrier oil
-Preteens/Teens: 1%-2% dilution – Up to 8 drops maximum per teaspoon (5ml) of carrier oil
It is important that you keep records and track how your child reacts to each new diluted essence you use over time. Diluted essences such as lotions, creams, and massage mixtures can be kept in a cool dark place or refrigerated for later use as long as you remember to discard them after 6 months for safety reasons and always prepare freshly for optimal potency and benefit when needed.
Dilution ratios for babies
When using essential oils for babies, it’s crucial to dilute them properly to ensure safety. Essential oils can be incredibly potent and must be diluted before use. Different dilution ratios should be used based on the age of the baby and its delicate skin.
- For newborns or premature babies, use no more than 0.25% dilution (1 drop of essential oil per 4 teaspoons of carrier oil).
- For infants under 6 months old, no more than 0.5% dilution (1 drop of essential oil per 2 teaspoons of carrier oil).
- From 6 months to 24 months, no more than 1% dilution (2 drops of essential oil per teaspoon of carrier oil).
- For children over 2 years old and adults, the safe range is between 1-3%, depending on symptoms and sensitivity levels.
Dilution Methods
Diluting essential oils is a crucial aspect of aromatherapy, as it can help users to achieve a safe, effective, and long-lasting experience. Depending on how you want to use essential oils, there are a variety of dilution methods that can be used. In this section, we will cover some different methods of diluting essential oils so that you can find the right one for your needs.
Direct application
Direct application is one of the easiest methods for diluting essential oils. This method requires only one oil, such as lavender or peppermint, that does not need to be diluted. This method works best for larger areas of the skin with no direct contact with mucous membranes. To use this method, simply apply a few drops of your chosen pure essential oil to the desired location.
When applying oils directly to the skin (such as when treating a sore muscle), it is recommended that first you do a patch test on a small area of skin to make sure you are not sensitive or allergic to that particular oil or blend. Be sure to wait at least 24 hours before using it on a larger area of your body or on an adult presence who could potentially have adverse reactions.
Be aware that direct application can cause some irritation, so it’s important not to use it too much or too frequently. Pay special attention when using this method around sensitive areas, such as the eyes and nose, and proceed with caution when vital oils are involved since these types can be much stronger than other oils due to their chemical composition and high concentration levels.
Diffusing
Diffusing essential oils is a great way to safely enjoy their potent aroma and benefit from their therapeutic properties. Diffusers use a combination of water (or sometimes alcohol) and essential oils to disperse a light mist that evaporates quickly, filling the room with droplets of the oil molecules.
The mist created by a diffuser carries oil molecules in the air for up to 4–6 hours, depending on the size of your room and the type of diffuser used.
The amount of essential oil you need to add to your diffuser will depend on the type of diffuser you are using and its size. Generally speaking, it’s usually okay to use anywhere between 5–15 drops per 100 ml (3.4 fl oz) or 5–50 drops per 500 ml (16 fl oz).
For stronger scents, it’s best to start with 5–7 drops in 100 ml (3.4 fl oz) or 20–25 drops in 500 ml (16 fl oz). It’s important not to overdo it as too much can be overwhelming and irritate adults and children alike.
It is also important to remember that some essential oils can stain fabrics and furniture so make sure your diffuser is placed in an area away from any furnishings like couches or bedding.
Also, be aware that essential oils are volatile meaning that they evaporate quickly so you may need more frequent refills when using certain stronger-smelling ones such as Rosemary or Peppermint.
Baths
Diluting essential oils for a bath can be tricky. As the oils disperse in the water, they evaporate quickly, leaving the oils undiluted on your skin when you climb out of the tub. To prevent this from happening it is important to understand how to properly dilute essential oils for a bath before using them.
Here are some fundamentally important guidelines for diluting essential oils in a bath:
– If you plan to add more than four drops of essential oil to a full bath, use a dispersant such as a jojoba or any other carrier oil.
– Add five drops of an essential oil per half cup of carrier oil, then stir five teaspoons of this blend into your running water before stepping in.
– Do not mix too many different types of essential oils — no more than two or three types per bath is recommended.
-If bathing with children and pregnant women, dilute the oils further by following the 1 drop per teaspoon rule or use hydrosols instead to keep them safer and milder.
Bath salts are often created with multiple types of pure and natural minerals to create different skin benefits such as detoxification and mineral replenishment after exercise or stress relief from tight muscles and soreness from physical workouts.
Essential oils can be added either pre-mixed into pure grade Sea Salts which are made up primarily of Magnesium Sulfate(Epsom salt) in half-cup batches and stirred into running hot/warm water when ready to take your bath or blended fresh each time you want to indulge yourself in some wonderful smelling ‘ahhh’me moments during each individual bathing session.
Carrier Oils
When diluting essential oils, it is important to use a carrier oil for the best results. Carrier oils are used to dilute the potency of essential oils and to reduce the risk of skin sensitization.
They also help to retain their therapeutic benefits and keep the essential oil from evaporating quickly. There are different types of carrier oils that can be used for dilution, so let’s explore the different varieties.
What are carrier oils?
Carrier oils are vegetable-derived oils that are used to dilute essential oils before being applied to the skin. These oils, also known as base oils, are loaded with skin-loving nutrients and fatty acids to help promote healthier-looking skin. Some examples of commonly used carrier oils include fractionated coconut oil, sweet almond oil, and jojoba oil.
Because essential oils can be very potent, they need to be diluted before they’re applied topically. Diluting them with carrier oils helps reduce any potential irritation or sensitivity that may occur when applied directly to the skin.
When selecting a carrier oil, it is important to keep in mind your unique skin type as this will affect which type of oil you should use. Here’s a breakdown of some common carrier options:
Fractionated Coconut Oil – This is an extremely lightweight and odorless oil that works for all skin types because it does not clog pores or cause irritation. It is composed primarily of saturated fatty acids which have been known to help nourish dry and irritated skin making it an excellent choice for those living with eczema or psoriasis.
Sweet Almond Oil – Sweet almond oil has similar properties as fractionated coconut but has a slightly different chemical structure which makes it more nourishing for dry and sensitive skin types due to its lighter feel on the skin. It is composed mostly of mono-unsaturated fatty acids which have been described as having emollient properties that help lubricate the surface of joints and muscles making it great for massage blends too!
Jojoba Oil – Jojoba oil is similar in composition to our own natural sebum, therefore, mimicking our skin’s protective barrier and bringing balance back into our lives! It has anti-inflammatory properties making it excellent at calming inflamed or irritated complexions while providing beneficial moisturizing abilities when added into a blend with other bases/carrier oils.
Popular carrier oils
To effectively dilute essential oils, it’s important to understand the proper ratios and use of carrier oils. Carrier oils are used to dilute essential oils to a safe concentration and enhance their absorption into the skin. They should not be used undiluted on their own, but when applied with the correct ratio of essential oil for your skin type, it creates a successful aromatherapy experience.
Popular carrier oils include:
–Coconut oil: A fat obtained from the flesh of coconut fruits, coconut oil is an effective moisturizer that helps protect your skin from free radicals, keeping it soft and supple. Coconut oil has antibacterial properties making it ideal for use in combination with other carrier oils.
–Jojoba oil: Jojoba oil comes from the seed of a desert shrub native to California and Arizona, also known as a Simmondsia chinensis or jojoba tree. It’s an efficient moisturizer that contains Vitamin E which can soothe irritation and inflammation on sensitive skin and reduce redness or flaking caused by dryness.
–Fractionated coconut oil: This is a popular carrier because its liquid consistency makes it easy to blend with other types of carrier oils or essential oils without leaving any residue behind on the skin when applied topically. It has anti-aging properties thanks to its antioxidant content which helps protect against sun damage as well as help retain moisture levels in the skin while slowly releasing negative toxins such as dirt or bacteria back into the environment.
–Avocado oil: Avocado oil is rich in antioxidants like vitamins A & E which can help protect against environmental stressors like UV radiation or pollution which can damage your skin cells over time if left unchecked for too long. Its high fatty acid content nourishes the skin deeply while helping reduce inflammation on sensitive areas like eczema-prone areas or breakouts caused by hormonal changes due to its healing properties throughout the application/dilution process onto your desired body part – face, hands feet, etc.
How to choose the right carrier oil
Choosing the right carrier oil for diluting your essential oils is an important part of safely and effectively using essential oils. Each carrier oil has distinct characteristics, including its scent, shelf life, absorption time, and nutrient content. By selecting the best carrier oil for your needs, you can ensure maximum benefits from your essential oils.
It’s important to remember that not all carrier oils are created the same; there is a range of types and grades available. Factors to consider when selecting a carrier oil include scent, skin type or condition of application area, desired absorption rate, cost, and shelf life.
Unrefined or “virgin” cold-pressed (CP) vegetable oils will generally be more expensive than those that have been chemically processed and/or solvent extracted to make them more affordable or improve their shelf life. Generally speaking, cold-pressed is of higher quality – better smell, nutritional value, and shelf life – than expeller-pressed or solvent-extracted versions.
Types of Carrier Oils:
-Almond Oil: Great for sensitive skin; lightweight; absorbs quickly; nutty aroma
-Apricot Kernel Oil: Softening; moisturizing; easily absorbed; hypoallergenic
-Avocado Oil: Rich in fatty acids & vitamins A & D; thick consistency
-Coconut Oil: Antioxidant & antibacterial properties; a good choice for damaged skin
-Grapeseed Oil: Lightweight texture.; astringent properties useful in oily skin care
-Jojoba Oil: Natural moisturizer & healer for sunburns & wrinkles; lightweight & odorless
-Olive Oil: Nourishing benefits with antiaging antioxidants & fatty acids
-Sunflower Seed Oil: Lightweight texture with natural antioxidants
Dilution Chart
Using a dilution chart can be a helpful tool when diluting essential oils. It helps you determine the proper amount of essential oils to be added to carrier oils in order to create a safe and effective blend. This chart will provide you with all the information you need to properly dilute essential oils. With this guide, you will be able to create a safe, balanced and effective blend.
Dilution chart for adults
The dilution chart for adults provides guidance on the recommended maximum dilution levels of essential oils when used on those over the age of 18. Essential oils should always be blended with a carrier oil, such as jojoba or almond oil, before application.
Please note that these are general guidelines only, and may vary based on an individual’s anatomy, sensitivity, and health conditions.
Common Dilution Rates for Adults
0.5%: 1 drop of essential oil for every 10ml (2 teaspoons) of carrier oil
1%: 1 drop of essential oil for every 5ml (1 teaspoon) of carrier oil
2%: 2 drops of essential oil for every 5ml (1 teaspoon) of carrier oil
3%: 3 drops of essential oil for every 5ml (1 teaspoon) of carrier oil
4%: 4 drops of essential oil for every 5ml (1 teaspoon) of carrier oil
5%: 5 drops of essential oil for every 5ml(1 teaspoon)of carrier oil
It is important to note that there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to the dilution chart, as everyone has different skin types and reactions to different concentrations which must be taken into consideration when blending oils.
The best way to determine what works best for you is to start small – work with lower concentrations first and gradually increase if needed. When adding more than one essential ingredient to your blend, please consider all safety information and adjust as necessary. Consult with your healthcare provider before using any new diluted products on your skin or ingesting them in any way.
Dilution chart for children
Essential oils offer many potential health benefits, which makes them particularly attractive to parents of small children. However, the potency of these oils requires special care in application and use. Children’s delicate skin can be overwhelmed by strong essential oils, and it is essential to understand the correct dilution amounts before the oil is applied.
The chart below outlines the amounts of carrier oil needed to achieve very low, low, medium, and high dilution ratios when using essential oils on a child aged two or older. Keep in mind that some essential oils are considered contraindicated for children under the age of two; always check the safety rating before proceeding if you plan to use them with a baby under two years old.
Very Low Dilution (1%): 9 – 11 drops of Essential Oil per 1 ounce (30ml) of Carrier Oil/Balm
Low Dilution (2%): 18 – 22 drops of Essential Oil per 1 ounce (30ml) of Carrier Oil/Balm
Medium Dilution (3%): 27 – 33 drops per 1 ounce (30ml) Carrier Oil/Balm
High Dilution (5%): 45 – 55 drops per 1 ounce Carrier Oil/Balm
Dilution chart for babies
When using essential oils with babies it is important to always use the lowest dosage and dilution possible. Essential oils can be safely used, however, because babies have delicate skin and are still developing, extra precautions should be taken when diluting essential oils for their use. Here’s a general guideline on how to safely dilute essential oils for babies:
• 0 – 3 months: Not recommended unless under the direction of a qualified practitioner
• 3 – 11 months: 1% Dilution (1 drop of essential oil + 20 drops of vegetable/carrier oil)
• 12 months – 24 months: 2% Dilution (2 drops of essential oil + 20 drops of vegetable/carrier oil)
• 2 – 6 years old: 3% Dilution (3 drops of essential oil + 20 drops of vegetable/carrier oil)or less depending on individual needs and body weight.
Essential oils can also be diffused in the room where the baby is located. Diffusion may still be beneficial without any needed safety concerns for those under 2 years old, but exercise caution about diffusing too much at one time or leaving a diffuser unattended.
It’s important to remember that when using any form of aromatherapy with infants or children proper dosage must always be observed.
