How to Make a Dilution Using Essential Oils and a Base Material

Because essential oils are very potent and highly concentrated, it is important to create dilutions before applying the oils to your skin. The most effective base materials for dilutions of essential oils are high quality carrier oils; however, a few tricks can help to ensure a long shelf life and a proper dilution.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Fresh, high-quality carrier oils
• Dark glass bottles
• Jojoba oil and/or 200 IU vitamin E capsules
• Essential oils of your choice

1. Choose fresh, high-quality carrier oils to make dilutions from essential oils. Common carrier oils include almond, apricot, grapeseed, hazelnut, kukui, macadamia, sesame and wheatgerm.
2. Mix dilutions of essential oils safely. For children 1 year old and younger, use only 2 drops per 1/4 cup of carrier oil. During pregnancy and for children between the ages of 1 and 4, use 4 drops per 1/4 cup of carrier oil. When making dilutions for children 4 to 12 and for those over 60, use 10 drops. For those between 12 and 60, use 20 drops of essential oil for every 1/4 cup of carrier oil.
3. Store your dilutions in dark glass bottles in a cool, dark location to maintain freshness. You can even keep your oils and dilutions in the refrigerator to extend the shelf life.
4. Preserve your dilutions by adding 10 percent of jojoba oil to your carrier oil. Vitamin E capsules also help to preserve oils and dilutions. Use two 200 IU capsules for every quarter cup of carrier oil.
5. Test your dilutions on a small patch of skin before using on large areas to check for allergic reactions.

Tips & Warnings

• 1/4 cup of carrier oil is equal to 50 g.