|
aromahealthtips
|
|||||||||
Carrier Oils
|
|||||||||
Home | Associations | Aromatherapy News | Books and Resources | Advertise Here | Natural Health Store |
|||||||||
|
What are carrier oils in aromatherapy? These are used to dilute the essential oils), many carrier oils are in themselves good for the skin containing vitamins, the main oils used are: APRICOT KERNEL OIL (Prunus Armenica) It is a highly nourishing oil light in texture, similar in consistency to Sweet Almond oil and is very easily absorbed by the skin making it especially suitable for facial massage blends. It is particularly suited to mature, dry, sensitive or inflamed skin and it is very useful for revitalising dull complexions. It blends well with Almond, Grapeseed and Jojoba oils. CALENDULA OIL (Calendula Officinalis) Calendula oil contains Vitamins A B D & E and minerals. Considered a truly healing oil it is reputed to have anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic, choleretic (increasing bile production) and vulnerary (helps healing of wounds) properties rendering it effective on bruises, cuts, nappy rash, skin rashes, chapped and cracked skin. COCONUT OIL (Cocos Nucifera) Coconut oil aids tanning and is reputed to ‘filter’ the suns rays. It is an emollient on hair and skin and is reputed to improve the moisture absorption of dry skin. In India it has been a favourite oil for skin and hair and for massage – used daily for babies. This oil should not be used as a sunscreen – you will burn. GRAPESEED OIL (Vitis Vinifera) Grapeseed oil contains a high percentage of linoleic acid and some vitamin E. It is a gentle emollient leaving the skin with a satin finish without feeling greasy. It suits all skin types and is excellent for body massage blends. JOJOBA OIL (Simmondsia Chinensis) The chemical structure of jojoba not only resembles sebum, (which makes it good for all skin types), but the latter can dissolve in it, which makes it a useful oil in cases of acne when it unclogs pores. The fact that it is also indicated in dry scalp and skin conditions shows that it is a very balancing oil. The combination of vitamins and minerals contained in jojoba oil makes the skin feel silky and soft. In its pure form Jojoba has a sun protection factor (SPF) of 4 and makes it useful base for suntan lotion. It can also help a suntan last longer; Jojoba contains an acid (myristic acid) which has anti-inflammatory properties. PEACH KERNEL (Prunus Persica) When used on the skin it supposedly encourages the body to secrete its own natural oils, making it a favourite for facial massage. It is high in both mono and polyunsaturates and contains useful levels of fatty acids and vitamin E, making it a useful supplement to encourage skin suppleness and elasticity. It can help prevent skin dehydration and is especially good for more sensitive complexions.
SWEET ALMOND OIL (Prunus Amygdalus var, Dulcis) Olien is a principal constituent with a tiny proportion of glyceride and linoleic acid. Sweet Almond also contains vitamin A, B1, B2, B6, C & D and has a high percentage of mono and polyunsaturated fatty acids. As it has a small quantity of vitamin E it keeps well. It protects and softens and nourishes skin. It is wonderful for dry and wrinkled hands. It is a popular carrier oil and especially good for body massage. Caution Please note that some people may have an allergic reaction to sweet almond oil – see allergic reactions WHEATGERM OIL (Titicum Vulgare) Wheatgerm is useful on dry and mature skins although to heavy by itself for massage. Caution As it is from a protein, it maybe contra-indicated for anyone prone to allergies. If you are not sure test it first.
Be aware of allergic reactions or sensitivity to various carrier oils. It is not uncommon for people to have an allergic reaction to Sweet Almond, Grapeseed and peanut oils. Those with a Gluten allergy or intolerance may well react to Wheatgerm. Coconut Oil is often a safe alternative. |
|
||||||||
|
|||||||||
