Carrier oils and Bulk Herbal Oils for Aromatherapy

Almond oil is a pale, yellow color and has a faint,pleasant odor. Almond oil is light, and penetrates well to relieve dry skin, itching, soreness and inflammation.

Pure Aloe gel is thick, slippery, moisture laden, and clear with a fresh, clean smell. Aloe stimulates collagen synthesis and skin regeneration.

Good for all skin types, apricot oil is used to moisturize mature, dry and sensitive skin. Apricot oil is known for its ability to penetrate the skin without leaving an oily feel.

You can buy arnica oils ready made, or easily make a homemade arnica infused oil with the dried flowers. I have found it wonderfully soothing as a shoulder rub when my arthritis acts up.

Avocado oil is a rich and highly prized skin oil, and is recommended for use with problem skin, dry skin, and eczema where a rich, thick oil is needed.

Borage oil should not be heated, and must be used cold to take full advantage of its health benefits. For topical applications, either apply directly, or mix with other oils and ingredients after all heating has taken place.

Calendula flower oil is one of the first herbs to consider in minor first aid applications. Particularly good treatment for cuts, scrapes, bruises, and minor wounds.

Cayenne can be used in herbal oils, and salves. Capsicum, an extract from cayenne and other peppers, can dramatically reduce chronic nerve pain, and along with it's anti-inflammatory actions it is effective against chronic pain like arthritis and neuralgia.

There is no mistaking the wonderful benefits of coconut oil for the softening and healing dry and damaged skin.

Comfrey oil, salves, and ointments are best know for the topical treatment of wounds and damaged skin. Use comfrey oil as a base for aromatherapy applications that require a deep degree of medicinal healing for the skin.

Evening primrose oil contains an omega-6 fatty acid that is soothing to inflammation. Evening primrose oil is a prized oil in aromatherapy skin care because of its many health benefits.

Freshly crushed garlic can be infused or diluted in olive oil for use as a topical antiseptic for minor injuries, ear infections or mites.

Grapeseed oil is almost colorless to pale green in color, ordorless and light. Grapeseed is known for its antioxidant properties and is used for all skin types in aromatherapy.

Hazelnut oil is a good carrier oil in aromatherapy applications, it has a slightly astringent action that is good for all skin types especially those with slightly oily skin.

Perhaps the most valued property of hemp is its percentage of essential fatty acids, which is higher than any other plant in the world. It contains both Omega-6 and Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids, in a proportion of 3:1

Jojoba oil has a natural affinity to the skin, and is readily absorbed without making the skin feel greasy or tacky nor does it clog the pores. It has exceptional skin-softening properties, as well as the ability to minimize fine lines and wrinkles.

The olive is an ancient symbol of goodness and purity, and olive oil is among the oldest therapies for the skin. Olive oil is prized in aromatherapy blend for its stability and long shelf life. Olive oil is the oil of choice for many herbal infused oils that require heat.

Rosemary is an extremely useful herb, with many culinary, medicinal and aromatherapy attributes. A wonderful herbal infused oil can be made from the fresh flowering tops and the upper part of the herb.

Safflowers are the richest source of CLA (conjugated linoleic acid. This light, pale yellow oil can be used as a base oil for all skin types and helps to hydrate dry skin.

Sesame oil is naturally active in vitamins A and E and essential proteins. A stable carrier oil for aromatherapy and home cosmetic use.

St. Johns wort herbal oil has dozens of chemical compounds that disinfect and heal wounds as well as sooth and soften rough skin. Use in combination with other base oils as a carrier for essential oils in deep healing skin care formulas.

Polynesian Tamanu oil is used for promoting healthy, clear, blemish-free skin. A rich and luxurious oil, tamanu can be used alone,or in combination with other oils in any and all skin care applications.

Today we can buy a variety of different vinegars including Balsamic, red & white vinegar, and others. As a general rule, I use white or red wine vinegars for salad dressings and making herbal vinegars. For cleaning and disinfecting I use the cheapest white distilled vinegar available. For health applications and for hair and skin rinses apple cider vinegar is a good choice.

Witch hazel makes a soothing and mildly astringent lotion. A general and all purpose remedy for abrasions, burns, scalds, insect bites and other inflammatory conditions of the skin. As an acne fighter witch hazel reduces the swelling of minor pimples and blemishes. Witch hazel is an excellent astringent, toning facial cleanser. It can be used for all skin types, oily to dry and is a valuable ingredient in natural skin care formulations and anti-aging products.