Fixed (Carrier) Oils and Uses
What’s a Carrier Oil and Why Do I Need one?
By Rehne Burge
We love our essential oils. However, many, if not most, have components within them that can irritate, even burn, your skin. Simply put, although therapeutically valuable, essential oils are irritants on the skin. Carrier oils, also referred to as lipid or fatty oils, are used in conjunction with essential oils in Aromatherapy. They are blended with the essential oils to a safe topical level to protect the skin. The percentage of blending is based on the safety guidelines of each essential oil.
Our skin is most receptive to these oils when it is warm and damp. You can also use a hydrosol to moisten the skin. So many great ones include Beautyberry, Rosemary, Neroli, Spearmint and more.
Carrier oils do not moisten the skin themselves. When applied, they block the moisture in the skin, keeping the skin from drying out. If applying after a shower, our skin is receptive, allowing a faster absorption rate. Absorption rates vary, depending on which carrier you use.
Carrier oils are also ingestible and often used in cooking and food preparation. An example is olive oil. They do not have the safety concerns that come with essential oils. They are non-volatile, the opposite of essential oils. A volatile organic compound (VOC) is defined by the EPA as “any compound of carbon” and includes essential oils. Although few essential oils constituents have been implemented, long term exposure to moderate mixtures of terpenes entails possible health risks. (1)
Many carriers have remarkable therapeutic properties externally and internally. Not only do they keep our skin safe when using essential oils, they also enhance the therapeutic effect of essential oils on the skin.
Should I buy Refined or Unrefined carrier oils?
Carrier oils can be purchased unrefined or refined. This defines the amount of processing the oil will go through.
Unrefined oils are the most sought for carrier oils. There is minimal processing involved which ensures a higher quality oil rich in nutrients. Unrefined gives the true color and flavor of the oil as well as the aroma.
The downfall to unrefined oils is often they are less stable than refined oils. This means that your oil will go rancid more quickly. This could shorten the shelf life of the final product you make. The shelf life is based on the ingredients in your product. The ingredient with the shortest shelf life, be it essential oils or the carriers, will be the shelf life of the product.
Some oils that are unrefined carry a strong color or smell (ex.: Avocado, Neem) and overpowers other ingredients including essential oils when blended. Some don’t care for the strong aroma. Unrefined Shea butter has a very distinctive aroma that some people like and some don’t care for. It’s unique to the individual, as is essential oils.
Because of the further processing that refined oils go through, there are fewer active compounds in the oil than unrefined oils. The further processing removes and damages some therapeutic compounds. I’ve found that refined oils are often less expensive, and they have a longer shelf life.
When deciding to purchase your carrier oils, look for cold-pressed, expeller-pressed, unrefined or virgin oil. These are the least processed oils. Depending on what you plan to use your oils for will have a bearing on your decision. Unrefined is the best for therapeutically effective facial products. Unrefined oils can be used for overall body products.
“While the chemical composition of vegetable butters and oils has been studied in detail, there is limited knowledge about their mechanisms of action after application on the skin. To understand their dermal effects better, 27 clinical studies evaluating 17 vegetable oils (almond, argan, avocado, borage, coconut, evening primrose, kukui, marula, mustard, neem, olive, rapeseed, sacha inchi, safflower, shea butter, soybean and sunflower oils) were reviewed in this research. The reviewed studies focused on non-affected skin, infant skin, psoriasis, xerosis, UVB-induced erythema, atopic dermatitis, molluscum contagiosum, tungiasis, scars, striae and striae gravidarum. We conclude that in inflammation-affected skin, vegetable oils with a high content of oleic acid, together with the lack of or a low linoleic acid content, may cause additional structural damage of the stratum corneum, while oils high in linoleic acid and saturated fatty acids may express positive effects. Non-affected skin, in contrast, may not react negatively to oils high in oleic acid. However, the frequency and duration of an oil's use must be considered an important factor that may accelerate or enhance the negative effects on the skin's structural integrity.“ (26)
When using essential oils in my products, I want the aroma of the oils to be dominant. In this case, it is best to use refined carrier oils as the aroma is less dominant.
Let’s review some carrier oils. There are many others, but these are some of my top picks.
1. Allanblackia floribunda Butter
The Allanblackia butter is a genus of flowering plant in the Clusiaceae family. Allanblackia seed oil contains on average of 52-58% stearic acid, 39-45% oleic acid and 2-3% palmitic acid. There are five species. It has similar characteristics to Shea butter, and meets the stringent outlines set by the cosmetic industry. The heated oil extracted from the seeds is used as a liniment to treat rheumatism, rubbed into sore joints, or dabbed on wounds and rashes. (2) The butter can be used alone or in products. Internally, it's been used in Africa to treat hypertension. Try the following blend with anti-inflammatory and analgesic essential oils known to be effective of joint and muscle pain. This butter is used best for inflammatory issues.
Pain Relief
One-ounce Allanblackia butter
6 drops of Siberian Fir Abies sibirica
3 drops of Juniper Berry Juniperus communis
2 drops of Lemongrass Cymbopogon citratus
4 drops Lavender Lavendula angustifolia
Blend your essential oils. Add the oils to the butter and mix well. Apply to achy joints 3-4 times a day. Store in closed glass container.
2. Almond Prunus amygdalus var. dulcis Oil
Almond oil, known as Sweet Almond, is cold pressed, subsequently refined then mixed with a soft Shea stearine. It assists with protecting the moisture of the dermis. (3) Almond oil contains minerals and vitamins including A, B1, B2, B6 and Vitamin E. Sweet Almond is an emollient and has sclerosant properties. Based on research, it’s shown to ease itching from dry skin, smooth and rejuvenate the skin, as well as treat psoriasis and eczema. (4) Almond is especially effective on dry, aging skin. Wonderful on burns and inflammation. I find this works best as a base oil.
Try in the following recipe with sweet almond at 40% and Black Currant oil at 60%. Or use the carrier of your choice.
Skin Healing Oil
One-Ounce Carrier oil
6 drops Carrot seed oil
3 drops Bergamot Citrus bergamia
6 drops Palmarosa Cymbopogon martini var. motia
6 drops Cedarwood Juniperus virginiana
3 drops Ho Wood Cinnamomun camphora ct linalol
Directions: Blend and apply as needed.
3. Aloe Vera
With several types of Aloe vera available, using what is not water based is important since, as we know, water and oil do not mix. The aloe leaf extracts that do not blend are Aloe gel, jelly, juice or liquid. None of these work as a carrier "oil" for blending with essential oils for bath water. These will simply separate in the bath water, risking skin irritation.
However, if using for the application on the skin, Aloe Vera Jelly with added thickeners and preservatives, may be used with proper dilution rates per the essential oil(s) you use.
Aloe vera is a succulent plant species of the genus Aloe. There are around 250 species of this wonderful healing plant. Aloe is an evergreen perennial and originated from the Arabian Peninsula. It also grow wild in tropical, semi-tropical and arid climates around the world. It is raised for agricultural and medicinal uses. It grows outside but also grows successfully indoors as a potted plant. Here on our property, we grow several species of this beautiful plant.
The plant is used for both internal and external applications. The taste is quite unpleasant. My recommendation is if using it internally, add to juice or to lessen the taste. The lower part of the leaf has many curative functions. The gel from the leaf is used to treat many skin ailments including but not limited to dermatitis, burns and various other skin disorders.
After having three big babies naturally, I developed hemorrhoids. At that time, choices of ointments were limited and did not ease the inflammation and flair ups nor heal them completely.
Thankfully at the time, I had my first Aloe Vera plant and applied it liberally several times and day and was able to get my hemorrhoids under control. I continue to use this plant for that and other issues. I located ten studies on Aloe Vera. Some studies have shown that aloe vera might be a useful adjunct for lowering blood glucose in diabetic patients as we as reducing blood lipid levels in patients with hyperlipidemia.
One study concluded that Aloe Vera, used as a topical application was not an effective preservative for radiation-induced injuries. (28)
However, from my own personal experience of using this on a relative on a very moist personal area where she had severe radiation burns, and after trying prescriptions gels and such failed, the aloe healed her burns quickly.
In a more recent study, radiation-induced Proctitis was treated with Aloe. The study showed that Aloe vera topical ointment was effective in prevention of symptoms of ARP in patients undergoing RT for pelvic cancers. (29)
The therapeutic uses include as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immuno-modulatory, antimicrobial, antiviral, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, anti-cancer, wound healing and as a skin protector. These uses have attributed to the presence of many active compounds within the juice. These compounds include anthraquinones, anthrones, chromones, flavonoids, amino acids, lipids, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals. (30).
4. Apricot Prunus armeniaca Kernel Oil
Apricot kernel oil is cold pressed from the seeds of apricots. This carrier oil is a favorite of massage therapists, due to its fast absorption rate and many therapeutic properties. Its therapeutic properties include gentleness on inflamed, aging or sensitive skin. It absorbs quickly, leaving your skin feeling moisturized and silky smooth.
When taken internally, it can help reduce cholesterol levels and help lower hypertension. (5) The main constituents within the oil are Linoleic acid between 21.9% – 31.6%, Oleic acid between 62.1% – 71.8%, Palmitoleic acid between 0.4% – 0.8% and Palmitic acid around 4.6% – 7.6%.
Apricot kernel has a suppressive action on 5alpha-Androst-16-en-3-one generated by microbial metabolism. What does this mean? Androsterone was the first human sex pheromone to be identified by researchers. It is found in many mammals, and in humans it is primarily found in sweat and can lead to unpleasant odors, especially in women. Apricot kernel was identified as one of the carriers to suppress androsterone. With this discovery, it would be an excellent addition to women’s deodorant products or used alone. (6) Apricot kernel can also be used alone or in facial blends. Helichrysum and Frankincense essential oils are cicatrisant (skin healers) and work perfect in a facial serum. Try using Apricot as a base oil at 10-50%. This blends nicely with Grape seed oil.
Try the following to soothe your skin. Blend and apply on clean, dry skin.
One-ounce Apricot Kernel CP (Cold pressed) oil
10 drops Helichrysum Italicum (Corsica)
5 drops Frankincense Boswellia sacra
*See “additional resources” below for research on the effects of Amygdaline from Apricot Kernel on transplanted tumors in mice.*
5. Argan Prunis amygdalus var. dulcis Oil
Argan oil is cold pressed from the pits or kernels found in the fruit of a tree endemic to the calcareous semidesert Sou’s valley of southwestern Morocco. The oil produced is a beautiful light golden yellow. This is a wonderful carrier oil with many therapeutic benefits. Argan has shown the following therapeutic properties: Anti-inflammatory, barrier repair, relieves itchy dry skin, reduce tiny veins, wound healing and possibly effective on skin cancer. (7) Argan is rich in protein and contain glucosides as well as vitamins A, B1, B2, B6 and vitamin E.
It has similar qualities to Sweet Almond in that it is great on all skin types, especially those prone to eczema or those with sensitive skin. I’ve used it successfully with Bergamot citrus bergamia essential oil in skin irritant formulas. It goes well with Cedarwood Juniperus virginiana essential oil for itchy, dry scalp. Although Argan has an average absorption rate, it leaves your skin feeling silky smooth.
Aside from topical, the benefits of ingesting Argan oil are quite remarkable. In a controlled clinical study, ingesting Argan oil showed the effectiveness on knee Osteoarthritis symptoms. (8)
*Unrefined carrier oils have a stronger fragrance than refined carrier oils. *
6. Arnica Arnica montana Oil
Arnica is an herbal tincture and is often applied externally on unbroken skin to treat sore muscles and joints as well as bruising, sprains and strains. Try making a salve for arthritic conditions. Arnica is a rubefacient meaning that it does it’s work by bringing more blood to the injured area causing a slight irritation. This is a normal reaction and part of the increasing healing process. However, Arnica has a high adverse reaction, especially with sensitive skin and is best used as a base oil. You can prepare it yourself or purchase Arnica oil.
This is my favorite way of using Arnica.
Arnica Salve with Plai
1/2 cup dried arnica (or purchase Arnica)
1 cup oil (olive oil works great)
1 oz. Beeswax
60 drops Plai Zingiber cassumunar
40 drops Balsam Fir Abies balsamea
10 drops Hemlock Tsuga canadensis
10 Norway Pine Pinus resinosa
10 Engleman Spruce Picea engelmanii
Directions:
If you choose to make your own infused arnica, follow the infusing arnica steps.
Prepare an arnica infused oil. This involves covering the arnica with oil and allowing it to infuse. This can take 30 minutes to 6 weeks depending on the method you choose.
Once you have your arnica infused oil, place the 1 cup of arnica oil into a small saucepan and add 1 oz. of beeswax. Heat over low until the beeswax is melted. Stir to fully incorporate. Remove from heat and add essential oils.
Transfer your salve to a container of your choosing; mason jars work great. Allow salve to cool before covering with a lid.
To Use:
Apply arnica salve to the affected area and massage into the skin. Remember arnica should not be used on open skin.
7. Avocado Persea Americana Oil
Avocado oil is an edible oil pressed from the fruit of the Persea Americana. Avocado oil is cold pressed from the flesh of avocados. Avocado oil contains minerals and vitamins A, B1, B2, B5 (Pantothenic acid), D, and E. Avocado also contains protein, lecithin and fatty acids and is high in gamma linoleic acid. Avocado has shown wound healing properties and possible anti-inflammatory properties. Avocado is a skin penetrator through the upper layers of skin. It smooths dry, damaged skin, eases eczema and improves elasticity of the skin. It works well as a 10% additive to other carrier oils. (5) (9) As noted above, Avocado oil is one of the oils with a stronger aroma. Although not unpleasant, it will dominate the aroma of your essential oils. Despite this, the therapeutic effect of the following blend is smoothing and healing to the skin. Avocado works well with other carrier oils.
Dry Skin Relief
One-Ounce Avocado oil
4 drops Helichrysum Helichrysum italicum
4 drops Roman Chamomile Chamaemelum nobile
4 Patchouli Pogostemom cabin
Directions: After cleansing and drying skin, apply as needed.
8. Babassu Orbygnia speciosa Oil
This tree is native to Brazil, Indonesia and Malaysia. Babassu oil, also sometimes called babassu wax, is a creamy white solid when kept cool and turns into a pale-yellow liquid at 76 degrees F./24 degrees C.
Babassu acts as an emollient and anti-microbial agent. It is obtained by cold-pressing the Babassu nuts. It contains lauric acid which offers anti-microbial actions. When it in contact with the body, it melts immediately. It provides a shiny, soft and smooth feeling to the skin. Although it has an average absorption rate, it leaves your skin feeling so lovely. Moreover, the melting process is accompanied by a slight cooling effect, which feels fresh on the skin.
Babassu is high in linolenic acids and is best used as an additive with other carriers. It’s often used in cosmetics and skin-care products. Using Babassu with Jojoba will help protect and heal the skin. The addition of essential oils that are also known for their antimicrobial properties will help to accelerate the healing actions of the Babassu oil. Try the following recipe for itchy dry skin irritations.
1/4 -Ounce Babassu oil
¾ -Ounce Jojoba oil
4 drops Tea Tree Melaleuca alternifolia
5 drops Lavender Lavendula angustifolia
Blend. Use on clean dry skin to heal dry itchy skin.
9. Baobab Adansonia digitata L., Malvaceae seed Oil
Baobab oil is cold pressed from the seed of the baobab tree.
The baobab is not just one tree, but nine species in the genus Adansonia. Two species are native to mainland Africa, six to Madagascar, and one to Australia. All nine inhabit low-lying, arid regions. In sub-Saharan Africa, you find baobabs rising above hot, dry scrublands and savannas. The animals rely on the Baobab tree for moisture and nutition. This is a main source of nutrition for the Elephants. Elephants love the spongy inside. Despite the big chunks that elephants eat on, the tree regrows (regenerates) which is why it has survived for many many years. The leaves are edible and the woody pulp. The African Baobab's angiosperm has set the age of the tree at approximately 1275 years old. Many people in the area where they grow rely on the trees for nutrition and herbal remedies. The fibers from the tree is strong and used to make ropes.
Baobab is highly penetrating, deeply nourishing and softens dry, damaged skin. It is known to restore and re-moisturizes the epidermis. It’s great for hair, absorbing quickly.
Baobab improves the skin’s elasticity and is a cell re-generator. It helps to relieves eczema and psoriasis. It has anti-inflammatory properties and relieves discomfort from burns and regenerates the epithelial tissue quickly. It’s a stable oil and goes well with other carrier oil s in formulas. Baobab is works as an anti-oxidant (10)
10. Borage Borago officinalis seed Oil
Borage, also known as a starflower, is an annual herb in the flowering plant family Boraginaceae. The oil is derived from the seeds of the plant. Borage oil contains high levels of the ω-6 series essential fatty acids that play an important part in the function and structure of the skin.
It’s high content of linolenic and linoleic acids is the highest source for GLA’s (gamma linoleic acid). It’s often taken internally to decrease cholesterol levels in the blood as well as assist with coronary heart disease, hypertension and diabetes. Borage is a great addition during “that time” of the month, assisting with symptoms of PMS as well as menopausal symptoms. (11)
Topically, Borage has great regenerating properties which makes it quite effective on premature and damaged skin, psoriasis and eczema. A study was done on 37 patients with infantile seborrheic dermatitis. The linoleic acid in borage oil contributed to its therapeutic actions against ISD. It was shown to normalize the skins barrier functionality. A double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial was performed to test clinical effects of undershirts coated with borage oil on children with Atopic Dermatitis (AD). In the group treated with borage oil, improvement showed with no side effects. Borage is best used as a 10% additive in your products. (12)
Eczema Oil Treatment
1 teaspoon borage oil
1 ounce’s jojoba oil
2 drops Helichrysum Helichrysum italicum
6 drops Roman Chamomile Chamaemelum nobile
4 drops Geranium Pelargonium roseum x asperum
8 drops Lavender Lavendula angustifolia
1. OR
2. Since "one shoe" does not fit all, using the same carrier oils, here is another great blend that has helped many.
Above carrier oils
· drops Oregano Origanum compactum
· 6 drops Roman Chamomile Chamaemelum nobile
· drops Neroli Citrus aurantium var. amara
· 9 drops Sandalwood Santalum album
Blend and apply to area 3-4 times a day. The essential oils used are cicatrisant (skin healing) essential oils.
11. Calendula Calendula officinalis (CO2 extract, infused) Oil
Calendula contains salicylic acid, carotenoids and phytosterols. It’s a skin regenerator, anti-microbial, antiseptic, great for wound and skin healing (cicatrisant), varicose veins, skin infections, cuts, chapped skin and lips.
In a double-blind randomized controlled trial, women of reproductive age were tested using Calendula officinalis extract-based cream versus metronidazole on bacterial vaginosis. All symptoms, including vaginal itching and burning sensation, odor, dysuria, and dyspareunia, were relieved with no side effects. This gives women a holistic approach versus using synthetic products (13)
12. Coconut Cocos nucifera Oil
Coconut oil is one of the most commonly-used carrier oils. It is cold pressed from coconuts which are harvested from coconut trees. Unfractionated (unrefined) Ccoconut oil is composed of many FFAs (fatty acids) including lauric acid (49%), myristic acid (18%), palmitic acid (8%), caprylic acid (8%), capric acid (7%), oleic acid (6%), linoleic acid (2%), and stearic acid (2%).
Refractionated (Refined) is mostly saturated fatty acids which is the closest to human sub-cutaneous fat and more compatible to the skin than vegetable oils. It’s a pure oil with no irritants present. Unrefined oil may contain irritants. Coconut oil has been found to be the best for wound caring and works well for conditioning, spot treatment for acne, and helps other carrier oils from going rancid which makes it a good carrier to add to your products. Cellular studies have shown that it is also anti-viral and anti-fungal. (14) Because coconut is comedogenic, which means it can be clogging, for some pores. Why some people and not everyone? Everyone’s chemistry is different and unique. Coconut oil can be used alone or as a soothing salve for the skin. Try the following beautiful skin loving recipe. It absorbs quickly, leaving your skin feeling moisturized and silky smooth.
Homespun Soothing Salve
2-ounce Bees wax
2-ounce Jojoba wax
3-ounce Shea butter
2-ounce Coconut butter
81 drops essential oils (1%) *
1 teaspoon Frankincense Boswellic acid powder (can be purchased at https://desrosiersintl.com/collections/absolutes-co2s-other-extracts)
Directions:
In a slow cooker, add and melt Bees wax. Once melted, add the jojoba wax. This will harden the bees wax a bit, but it will liquify again. Continue the same process with the Shea and Coconut butter. Once melted, turn off heat and add your skin friendly essential oils. Blend well and immediately add to glass jars and seal tightly. This tends to be a bit thick, more in line with a lip balm. To thin down, you could lower the Bees wax to perhaps 1-ounce.
*Try one or more of the following skin friendly essential oils in your product: Lavender Lavendula angustifolia, Juniper Berry Juniperus communis, Cedarwood Juniperus virginiana, Patchouli Pogostemom cablin, Roman Chamomile Chamaemelum nobile, Basil (sweet) Ocimum basilicum ct linalool, Carrot Seed Daucus carota, Sandalwood Santalum album or Santalum paniculatum (or Patchouli Pogostemom cablin), Helichrysum italicum and/or Frankincense Boswellia carterii.*
13. Dandelion Flower & Leaf Oil
Aged skin becomes more transparent, loose, and fragile becoming more vulnerable to ultra violet rays. Dandelion extracts offer exceptional UV protection and is shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticarcinogenic activities. (add’l resource 8)
14. Grape seed Vitis vinifera Oil
Grape seed oil is a carrier oil that is often used in massage therapy. Grapeseed oil is extracted through hot extraction. Due to the small amount of oil in the seeds, a hot expeller technique is used. When oils are extracted using this method, the grapes are heat pressed to release the oil. There are no chemicals used in this process and it produces the best grape seed oil. There is another method called solvent extraction. Hexane is used to extract the oil from the seeds. However, this method leaves behind toxic residues.
Despite what you may have read, Grapeseed oil is not cold pressed.
Grapeseed contains a large amount of similar phenolic compounds, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, tannins, and stilbenes. Phenolic compounds are anti-oxidants. These compounds also play an important role in the oxidative stability of an oil. It contains linoleic acid, vitamins, minerals and protein. (15) Grapeseed oil is odorless, a skin penetrator and good for all skin types. Grapeseed oil is a wound healer, anti-microbial, anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory. It has a light, sweet-nutty fragrance. It absorbs quickly, leaving your skin feeling moisturized and silky smooth.
15. Jojoba Simmondsia chinensis Oil
Jojoba (Simmondsia chinensis) is a long-lived, drought resistant, perennial plant Jojoba
(hohoba) oil is used often in skin care products. It offers a nice skin barrier and is often used in cosmetic products. It has a high content of wax esters. It’s anti-inflammatory, anti-aging and used for various skin infections and issues. Jojoba is a good choice to repair the skin from dermatitis, eczema, AD and acne. It’s having a high oxidative stability which keeps the oil from going rancid. Jojoba is often used for topical absorption of drugs. (16)
But, with all its benefits, it can be clogging. It is, after all, a wax. For acne, the perfect blend with Jojoba is Hazelnut kernel Corylus avellana oil which is great in controlling acne.
Acne Spot Treatment
One-ounce Jojoba Oil/Hazelnut oil
4 drops Tea Tree Melaleuca alternifolia
2 drops Geranium Pelatgonium roseum x asperum
2 drops Patchouli Pogostemom cablin
4 drops Helichrysum Helichrysum italicum
Blend. Store in a skirt bottle for best results. Using a cotton ball, apply to area, especially after cleansing and before bed. It is a light, golden-yellow color and doesn’t have much of an odor.
*You can mix your carrier oils and, in fact, some make better base oils and compliment other carrier oils.*
16. Kpangnan (pronounced Pawnya)
Kpangnan is remarkably more moisturizing than Shea butter and when applied to the skin, it has a slight warming effect on the skin. Studies have found that Kpangnan contains a high amount of stigmasterol, an unsaturated plant sterol that contains anti- inflammatory and pain-relieving agents. Organic and unrefined will give you the best butter for skin preparations. As soon as it is refined it changes its wonderful skin healing properties. The butter should be hard and yellow.
17. Marula oil (wild crafted)
Marula serves as a fantastic carrier oil and is beautiful with a delicate aroma and light-yellow color. Rich in oleic acid, Marula is hydrating and can help increase epidermal smoothness. Known to protect and nourishes the skin, good for oily skin and hair, relieves Dermatitis, Eczema, and Psoriasis. It helps heal sunburns, and chapped/irritated skin. It’s a great anti-oxidant and can be used around the eye area for fine line treatment. It’s got antibacterial action - used to treat wounds and burns and has free-radical scavenging properties.
18. Moringa Moringa oleifera Seed
Moringa was first discovered in the Egyptian tombs and like olive oil, castor and flax, is known as an ancient oil. The tree grows in Egypt, India, Africa, Oceania and the new world Americas and is native to the lowlands of the Himalayas. It easily grows in warmer as well as drier climates.
It’s a plant that offers many nutritional benefits, internally and to the skin, especially from the seeds. All parts of the tree are used including the leaves, flowers, roots and seeds.
This beautiful oil is high in antioxidants, minerals as well as vitamins which is so nourishing to the skin. This along with the fatty acids protect and when used consistently, can show improvement, not only in the tone of our skin but the texture as well. It’s an oil with a long shelf life and very stable oil. This is due to its unusual long-saturated chain the inhibits oxidation of the oil for up to 5 years.
Moringa is high in oleic acid, up to 70%, and 10% of the long-chain behenic acid which helps keep the oil from feeling oily on the skin. This also will help to protect skin as well as hair against oxidation and environmental damage. Moringa can also contain up to 2% of the omega 7 fatty acid, palmitoleic, which helps to preserve the health of the skin.
The oil has shown to act as an antiseptic and an anti-inflammatory. You just can’t beat a better oil for the skin.
One last thought, Moringa has been noted to enhance sexual performance.
19. Neem AKA Indian Lilac (CP)
Neem oil has a list of great therapeutic properties including as an anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, fungicide, restorative for your skin, antiseptic, and insecticide, eases symptoms of Psoriasis, helps heal skin diseases, herpes, allergies, itching and sunburns. Neem has many benefits, but also has a very strong scent that can over power the scent of an essential oil. It's best known for its anti-aging properties. Due to its antioxidant properties, Neem protects the skin from harmful UV rays, pollution and other environmental factors. The vitamins and saturated fatty acids in Neem improve and maintain the elasticity of the skin, reduce wrinkles and fine lines. It can feel heavy on the skin, leaving an oily feeling. However, it is a great moisturizing barrier and although slow to absorb, eventually it absorbs nicely.
20. Olive Olea europaea Oil (Virgin pressed)
Olive oil comes from the fruits of Olea europaea trees. It consists mainly of oleic acid, some fatty acids such as linoleic and palmitic acid. Olive oil contains phenolic compounds, with Hydrolic phenols being the highest percent and the most abundant anti-oxidants in olive oil, higher than vitamin E. Olive oil has anti-inflammatory properties, wound healing properties, acne, bruising and insect bites as well as having a positive effect on skin cell regeneration. It has a slow absorption rate and can leave a slight oily residue.
Olive oil contains protein, minerals and vitamins. For rheumatic type conditions, you can use alone or as a 10-50% additive. (18)
Skin Wound and Healing Oil
One-Ounce Olive Oil
6 drops Helichrysum Corsica italicum
4 drops Myrrh Commiphora myrrha
4 drops German Chamomile Matricaria recutita
4 drops Frankincense Boswellia carterii
Directions: Rub on closed wound 3-4 times a day, especially on clean dry skin and before bed. Note: This is a 2% blend. For short term and acute wounds, you can go from 5-10% blend. Always start low and find your healing threshold. By starting at a 2% for the first week, you can get a better gauge on your body’s healing progression. Depending on the extent of the wound, it can take several weeks to heal.
*Safety Alert: If pregnant, leave out Myrrh Commiphora myrrha. Myrrh is contraindicated for pregnancy and breastfeeding, due to its components (constituents) β-elemene and furanodiene content, which may be fetotoxic. * (19)
21. Pomegranate Seed Oil (Refined CP):
Pomegranate seed oil is cold pressed from the seeds of the plant. Because of the high content of fatty acids, the Pomegranate oil is a great anti-Inflammatory as well as a skin re-generator, moisturizing, and excellent for dry, damaged and aged skin. It's nourishing and protective to the skin. However, it is slow to absorb and can leave a slight oily residue.
Most promising, pomegranate seed oil has been shown as a potential safe and effective agent against skin cancer. (20)
22. Rosehip Rosa canina L. Oil
One of my favorite carrier oils, Rosehip oil is extracted from the seeds. It’s high content of linoleic acid, anywhere from 35-55%, makes it especially therapeutic on the skin. Rosehip oil has a high content of polyunsaturated fats, has a high content linoleic acid at around 35-55% with a-linolenic acid and oleic acid following.
It is a wonderful anti-oxidant and has anti-inflammatory actions that have shown to be effective on eczema, burns, bruises, ulcers, neuro dermatitis and other inflammatory skin issues. You can use as a 10% additive or for aging, dry skin, use Rosehip oil alone. It heals and absorbs quickly into the skin, leaving no greasy residue behind. (21)
23. Raspberry Rubus idaeus L. Seed Oil
Raspberry seed oil’s major constituents are omega-6 fatty acids (linoleic acid and γ-linolenic acid). Raspberry seed oil has several therapeutic properties including as an antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory as well as many other properties. (add’l ref. 7, 9)
24. Shea Butter
Shea butter comes from the nut of the Vitellaria paradoxa or Shi tree and is the only species of its kind and is indigenous to Africa. Shea feels elegant to the skin, anti-inflammatory and great at easing symptoms of eczema. Shea moisturizes dry itchy skin, is anti-aging. It has shown to ease irritation from shaving and help reduce stretch marks. However, it is slow to absorb and can leave a slight oily residue. Study shows that Shea was as effective as a prescribed cleanser and cream for eczema. (22)
25. Souchet (Tigernut) Cyperus esculentus L.
Studies indicate that this plant has antioxidant, antimicrobial, antidiarrheal, insecticidal, and anticancer potential. Chemical compounds identified in the species belong to the classes of terpenes, fatty acids, phenolics and flavonoids. The flavonoid orientin, for example, was isolated from leaves of C. esculentus and showed neuroprotective effects against ischemia-reperfusion-induced brain injury. Your nervous system controls how you process and feel pain throughout the body. The nervous system consists of the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord) and the peripheral nervous system which is the nerves and nerve pathways that are throughout the body.
When the body is harmed either by an injury or disease, the tissues in the affected will release chemicals that communicate with the nerves. The nerve pathways carry the messages from the hurt area and travel through the spinal cord and into the brain. The pain messages go to several areas of the brain that recognize pain. These areas of the brain also help control our mood, sleep and hormones. Because of this, chronic pain can affect many aspects of the body.
The brain sends messages back through the pathways down to the body to reduce or stop pain sensations. The message from the brain may also trigger an immediate response, for example, to pull your hand away from a hot stove.
Pain treatments can target your nervous system by blocking or easing the pain receptors in the brain, stopping the inflammatory chemicals from communicating with the nerves, quieting overactive nerves that send the pain messages and to assist stimulating the release of natural pain-relieving chemical called endorphins. Pain can become its own disease if we cannot take control of it. The oil is also an anti-inflammatory and contributes to wound healing. It is also an antioxidant and shows oxidation stability. (27)
26. Tamanu Oil
Treating scars, stretch marks (fades stretch marks with great results), minor wounds, skin irritations, rashes, bedsores and many other skin concerns. promotes new tissue formation, accelerating healing and healthy skin growth, is an anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and anti-fungal. In addition, Tamanu oil has properties that make it stand out from other lipid because it has the ability to be able to affect nerve conditions through the skin. We don’t find this in other fatty oils which makes it so unique. However, due to its thickness, it is slow to absorb and can leave a slight oily residue. Although thick, it’s not a saturated butter. Its thick consistency is from a property of glycolipids (starches attached to lipids) that are unusual in the nature of oils. It even has a percentage of a unique fatty acid called Caulophyllic acid that adds a uniqueness to this oil’s ability to help us treat a variety of skin issues.
27. Touloucouna Carapa procera Oil
Touloucouna oil is traditionally used in treating skin problems including eczema, acne, psoriasis with muscle relaxing anti-inflammatory properties. Touloucouna oil has been known for its hair conditioning properties without a greasy effect. Unrefined Touloucouna oil is soothing and rich in oleic acid and used as a natural insect repellent [belongs to the same plant Meliaceae family as neem. The oil, although edible in West Africa, has a very bitter taste and solidifies under 25°C due to the natural occurring palmitic acid. The oil feels like a butter. It's cold pressed from the seeds which contains approximately 40% protein and 5% glycerin. This oil is an excellent quick absorbing oil with 18% myristic acid. It’s wonderful on the skin, helping to retain skin elasticity. The oil is used for massage oils, facial creams, hair growth, cradle cap and hair/scalp treatments.
28. Trauma Oil
Combination of Organic or Wildcrafted St. John's Wort, Organic or Organically grown Calendula, Organic or wild-crafted Arnica. It’s been known to reduce the pain of injury, relieve swelling and promote healing of muscles, tendons, and ligaments, Perfect for healing bruises, Eases sore and achy muscles, Nerve pain such as sciatica, as a massage oil for especially sore areas.
29. Watermelon
Watermelon Seed Oil (WSO) is a very nourishing yet light oil with good absorption. It is a good choice for use with oily skin but can be effective with all skin types. Its viscosity, mild aroma and indefinite shelf life make it a good all-purpose carrier oil for use in aromatherapy. It’s great for acne prone skin and gentle and nourishing to aging skin and adds elasticity back to the skin. This is a great summer time oil. Try using an ounce of watermelon seed oil with 18 drops of Helichrysum italicum essential oil. Your skin will love it.
Was this list helpful to you? Select a carrier oil that will enhance your blend. Don’t be afraid to experiment with carrier oils. Find the one that suites your needs. By following the references, it will lead to more carrier oils for you to choose from. Please like, share and leave your comment.
Thank you kindly-Rehne
*Note: Several references lead to the same research publication on multiple carrier oils. Additional resources have also been provided.
Resources and Reference
1. Tisserand, R. and Young, R. (2007) Essential oil safety; A guide for health care professionals (2 Nd Ed.). NY: Churchill Livingston; VOCs; pgs. 100-101
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4613311/
3. https://cosmetics.specialchem.com/product/i-icsc-almond-butter
4. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/41404356_The_uses_and_properties_of_almond_oil
5. Sheppard-Hanger, Sylla; The Aromatherapy Practitioner Manual, Vegetal Oils & Additives, pg. 43
6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/?term=apricot+kernel+on+skin
7. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5796020/
8. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28699499
9. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5796020/
10. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/28265358
11. Sheppard-Hanger, Sylla; The Aromatherapy Practitioner Manual, Vegetal Oils % Additives, pg. 42 Borage
12. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18078406
13. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/29441319
14. Coconut Oil; http://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/19/1/70/htm
15. Grapeseed Oil; http://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/19/1/70/htm
16. Jojoba Oil; http://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/19/1/70/htm
17. Olive Oil; https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5796020/
19. Sheppard-Hanger, Sylla; The Aromatherapy Practitioner Manual, Vegetal Oils & Additives, pg. 47
20 Tisserand, R. and Young, R. (2007) Essential oil safety; A guide for health care professionals (2 Nd Ed.). NY: Churchill Livingston; Myrrh; pg. 357
21. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/14585180
22. Rose Hip Oil: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18384191
24. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26314567
Additional Research:
Anti-Inflammatory and Skin Barrier Repair Effects of Topical Application of Some Plant Oils https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5796020/
Effects of Amygdaline from Apricot Kernel on Transplanted Tumors in Mice. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27021084
Effects of Babassu oil, olive oil and water on the skin. http://www.mdpi.com/2079-9284/4/3/32
Nutritional Value of Baobab oil. http://www.mdpi.com/2304-8158/6/7/54
Wax Esters (Inc. Jojoba Esters) http://aem.asm.org/content/78/16/5734.full.pdf+html?sid=fc65153b-028e-45b5-a461-131a728888b1
Borage oil for atopic dermatitis https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20579590
