Common Carrier Oils

1. Coconut Oil

Whole coconut oil is solid at room temperature and has long unsaturated fatty acid triglycerides.  This oil has a high percentage of completely saturated triglycerides (no double bonds).  When the smaller fatty acids and long-chain triglycerides are separated from the whole coconut oil, it leaves only saturated fats or a fraction of the whole oil.  This is then known as "Fractionated Coconut Oil."

Advantages of Fractionated Coconut Oil
With no double bonds, there is no oxidation.  Thus, fractionated coconut oil is a carrier that never goes rancid.  It basically has an indefinite shelf life and is in a perfectly clear liquid form. Other advantages of fractionated coconut oil are:

·  It is odorless and colorless.  It won’t stain and easily washes out of clothing and sheets.

·  It absorbs into the skin while reducing essential oil evaporation.

·  It is excellent on skin; a natural and very safe moisturizer, softener and safe, non-irritant lubricator. 

·  It leaves skins smooth with no greasy feeling.

·  Low production costs make it cost effective.

·  It can be mixed with other, more expensive, carriers to increase shelf life.  It can also be used it to create different cream textures.

·  It does not aggravate skin problems or clog pores.

·  It is fully digestible and considered an excellent and healthy cooking oil.

·  It is truly one of the best multi-purpose carrier oil products on the market. 

Advantages of Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO - not fractionated)
DoTerra's coconut oil is a great product with a great shelf life and is liquid at room temperature but it does not include all the fat chains. VCO on the other hand has its own advantages and some real followers that are adamant about its health and wellness attributes. A little internet research and you'll see the passion out there. I have personally seen it do amazing things by itself, especially in the area of skin care, but when you blend VCO with doTerra essential oils you create a synergizing product that I believe is far superior that just either product alone.

2. Grapeseed Oil

Obviously from its name, grapeseed oil is made from the seed of the grape.  Its production prior to the 20th century was limited because grape seeds contain such a small quantity of oil.  The process of extraction therefore is labor intensive.  It is most widely known for its healthy culinary applications.  It is beginning to be recognized as a massage oil, lotion base, hygiene cream, and lip balm.  It is relatively odorless and is an excellent carrier oil.  It is mostly clear with a very light yellow/green tinge and has a slightly sweet taste.

Other advantages of grapeseed oil are:

·  It offers regenerative and restructuring characteristics that offer quality skin moisturizing.

·  It is considered an excellent lubricant for massage and shaving.

·  It leaves a glossy film that protects essential oils from evaporation.  Saturation takes longer than some other carriers. 

·  Some claim it has astringent qualities that tighten and tone the skin.

·  It does not aggravate acne or clog pores.
 

 3. Jojoba Oil

Jojoba oil is found in the seed of the Jojoba plant.  The oil makes up nearly 50% of the seed in weight.  It is native to the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico.  It is considered a natural wax.  It is nearly colorless (slight yellow tint) and odorless.  It is normally liquid at room temperature; its melting point is just over 40° F.
Other advantages of jojoba oil are:

·  It has a very stable shelf life and when mixed with other carriers, increases their shelf life.

·  It is known for its nourishing qualities for the skin. 

·  It closely resembles the natural oils of our own skin

·  It absorbs well into the skin, with no greasy feeling.

·  It is naturally protective to sensitive skin.

4. Olive Oil

Olive oil is universally known a one of the most quality culinary oils. It has a multitude of uses however, including a quality carrier oil.  Depending on the press, it has a full-bodied flavor and a strong aroma, and can also have a golden brown or green color.  If it is a color and odor that is pleasing then enjoy its healthful benefits to the skin and hair.

Other advantages of olive oil:

·  It has a high vitamin and mineral count.

·  It is a quality lubricant.

·  It has approximately a one-year shelf life.

·  It is an excellent conditioner for hair.

5. Safflower oil

Safflower oil is extracted from the seeds of the safflower plant grown in great abundance for this commonly used vegetable oil and is relatively inexpensive.  It has a high content of unsaturated fatty acids and can go rancid quickly.  Its best shelf life (about 1 year) is guaranteed if it is mixed with another quality carrier oil such as fractionated coconut oil.  It is a pale yellow, nearly colorless, and has very little odor.

Other advantages of safflower oil:

·  It has excellent moisturizing qualities.

·  It is a good lubricant.

·  It is easily absorbed.

·  Quality safflower does not stain.

Premixing Salves, Ointments, and Spritzers

Sometimes it is wise to have a premixed salve, ointment, or spray for emergencies that may come up or for a concern that requires periodic application.  Here are some hints on premixing: 

·         If making a premixed spritz for applications, it is usually done with water as a carrier, because the two will separate, therefore, shake vigorously before using and continue shaking often.  Typical use of 4-6 drops of oil per 1/2 cup of water is sufficient.  Use a quality spray container and apparatus. 

·         A common ointment to have handy is 6-8 drops of Peppermint to a teaspoon of a carrier oil for headaches.  A small amount of this mixture placed on the temples, forehead, or back of the neck is very effective for many people.

·         If a carrier/essential oil ointment is pre-made, be sure to use a tight sealing and low light container, or store them out of the light.

·         It is handy to keep a pre-made, relaxing foot rub ointment next to a child’s bed so that a parent can quickly and easily give a child a relaxing and calming foot rub at bed time.