If you’re someone newer to exploring the benefits of essential oils, or you’re looking to maximize the potential of some of the oils in your collection, then learning about dilution blending your oils is a great next step. Not only can it be a relaxing and rewarding experience, but it also affords you the opportunity to create personalized combinations based on scent preferences or therapeutic benefits – or both!
What is dilution blending of oils?
“Dilution blending” is when you combine a single or multiple essential oils with a carrier oil or other substance to reduce their concentration and enhance the synergistic benefits.
What are “carrier oils?”
Also known as “base oils,” carrier oils are made from plants (including nuts, seeds, or fruits). They tend to be heavier and more stable than essential oils and are very safe for the skin; in fact, they are often very moisturizing. Some essential oils can irritate the skin, so they are usually blended with carrier oils for safety and comfort.
The term “carrier” also refers to any substance used to dilute essential oils. These commonly include cream or lotion, vegetable oils, butters, water, hydrosol, and aloe vera gel.
What is “synergy” or “synergistic benefits?”
“Synergy” is when the final product has greater effects than the sum of all its individual parts. By combining oils, their therapeutic benefits are enhanced. For example, when using Roman chamomile, bergamot, and lavender, the blend will have a stronger antispasmodic effect than any of the oils on their own.
Synergy is derived from considering several approaches to blending: chemistry, aroma, emotions/lifestyle of the client, method of application, carriers, and plant parts.
What tools are needed for blending?
Essential oils, carrier oils, gloves for protection, droppers/pipettes, blending or storage bottles, towels for cleanup, a pen and paper for recording blends, and of course, your nose!
What are some considerations?
- Aroma preferences: top, middle, and base notes
- Carrier (Consider the carrier’s own therapeutic benefits.)
- Concerns/goals of the client
- Chemistry of the oils and the therapeutic actions of the components
- Method of application (Consider what is practical and preferred.)
- Subtle energetics of the oils
- Acute vs. chronic issues
- Safety concerns
What are these “notes?”
“Notes” are designations for the overall aromatic experience of the blended oils. A top note is the initial fragrance; they are often bright, sharp, and clear. For example, citrus oils like lime or orange would be top notes.
Middle notes, also known as “heart notes,” give the blend aromatic softness, harmonizing and
balancing the top and base notes. Examples would include lavender and peppermint.
Finally, base notes anchor the aromas, providing a deep, warm, grounded quality that is calming. Their aroma often lasts the longest. Examples of base notes would be cedarwood and ylang ylang.
It’s important to remember: the shelf life of your blend directly relates to whatever ingredient you use (essential oil and carrier product) which has the shortest shelf life, so when planning to enjoy your blend, keep that time frame in your mind.
Great – I can’t wait to get started! Do I need to know anything else?
Yes! It’s very important to know how to approximate the different amounts to include in your blends. There are approximately 500–600 drops of essential oil in one ounce (30 ml), depending on the oil. The dilution guidelines are based on this number.
1% of 500 = 5 drops
1% of 600 = 6 drops
For example, for the lowest level of dilution, begin with 5 drops of essential oil in 1 oz of carrier oil. For more information on dilution percentages, check out Inshanti’s homepage.
To kick off your blending experience strongly, we at Inshanti suggest starting with an effective carrier
oil – such as jojoba – and a good variety of oils. Our starter kit features some of our most popular oils, including 5 mL bottles of lavender, ginger, bergamot, peppermint, patchouli, orange, tea tree, frankincense, clary sage, cedarwood, eucalyptus and lemongrass oils, and a 5/8 dram bottle of Roman chamomile oil. This variety will allow you to create blends suitable for your unique situation – and help you determine what works best for you!
We also believe deeply in educating our clients – if you have any questions on blending or the benefits of essentials, we’re here to help!