Learning how to dilute essential oils properly can help you enjoy the maximum benefits of your oils and avoid any unwanted side effects. Essential oils are highly concentrated. A little goes a long way when used topically or in aromatherapy. Their potency makes them powerful additions to your wellness practices but also means that they can be irritating to your skin if not used properly.
Below is a quick guide on how to dilute essential oils for safe and effective usage.
How to dilute essential oils for aromatherapy
When used in aromatherapy, essential oils have wellness properties that range from helping you stay energized to helping you stay calm. However, essential oils are strong and should be used in moderation. When adding essential oils to a diffuser, a good rule of thumb is to start with 3-5 drops. If you feel that you want a stronger aroma after testing for a few hours, you can add a few more drops. Just be aware that aromas that are comfortable for adults might be too strong and even harmful for babies, young children, and pets. Check with your doctor before diffusing essential oils around babies and young children. And learn about using essential oils safely around cats and dogs.
How to dilute essential oils for topical application
Essential oils can provide a variety of wellness benefits when applied topically. Essential oils can provide relief for sore muscles and make baths and showers extra soothing. But essential oils can also burn or irritate the skin if not applied properly. When using essential oils topically, you should dilute them with a mild carrier oil. A good rule of thumb is to dilute every 1-5 drops of essential oil with .3 fluid ounces (1.8 teaspoons) of carrier oil. Mild oils like olive, jojoba, sweet almond and coconut make great carrier oils. You can also substitute a carrier oil for a mild body lotion, unscented hand cream, shea butter, or massage oil. If you want to use essential oils in the shower, your body wash, liquid soap, shampoo, or conditioner works as a carrier. In fact, adding essential oils to your shower routine has wellness benefits ranging from stress relief to hair care!
What about ingesting essential oils?
At Savhera, we don’t recommend ingesting essential oils unless you’re under the direct supervision of a doctor. Ingesting essential oils improperly can have severe health repercussions.
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