Ebooks doTERRA eBook Topical Use of Essential Oils | Page 8
Carrier oils
In the world of essential oils, a carrier oil is an oil that literally carries
essential oils to the desired area on the skin. Carrier oils are primarily
used for dilution. When you dilute an essential oil with a carrier
oil, it will dilute the potency of the oil, however, it will increase
absorption into the skin, which will ultimately allow you to
maximize the benefits that the essential oil has to offer.
Fractionated
Ideally, a carrier oil should be a pure vegetable oil so that it can
Coconut Oil
Cocos
nucifera Oil
easily dissolve an essential oil without damaging the delicate
chemical profile of the oil. If an essential oil’s chemical makeup
is altered or damaged in any way, it will reduce the efficacy of the
oil, and you will not reap the desired benefits. The following carrier
oils are commonly used to effectively dilute essential oils:
- Avocado oil
- Walnut oil
- Macadamia nut oil
- Sweet almond oil
Fractionation
- Linseed oil
- Sunflower oil
- Olive oil
- Coconut oil
Carrier oils contain long fatty acids that
are known to oxidize over time. During
the process of fractionation, the shorter
length fatty acid chains are separated
out in order to give the oil a longer
shelf life.
In most cases, carrier oils contain chemical components that can oxidize
over time. You may notice oils that have been fractionated, or have gone
through the process of fractionation, to help prolong the shelf life of the
carrier oil. dōTERRA uses Fractionated Coconut Oil as a carrier oil due to
its long shelf life and because it has a non-greasy, lightweight feel.
Cassia
Cinnamon
Clove
Cumin
Geranium
Lemongrass
Oregano
Essential oils that should always be diluted before topical use:
Thyme