Diluting essential oils with coconut oil allows you to safely enjoy aromatherapy benefits without risking irritation, inflammation or unintended side effects from improper or overuse. In a rush? You’ll generally want to add 15-25 drops of most essential oils per fluid ounce of coconut oil. But for optimal results, keep reading to discover proper dilution ratios based on application.
How To Dilute Essential Oils With Coconut Oil
Materials Needed:
- Essential oil of your choice
- Coconut oil oil (or other carrier oils)
- Bottle or container for storage
- Measuring tools (pipette or dropper)
- Small bowl for mixing (optional)
Steps:
1. Choose Your Essential Oil
Select the essential oil you want to use. Ensure that it is safe for topical application and appropriate for your intended use.
2. Choose a Carrier Oil
Coconut oil is a popular carrier oil, but you can also use other carrier oils like jojoba, sweet almond, or grapeseed oil. Make sure the carrier oil is pure and of high quality.
3. Determine the Dilution Ratio
The typical dilution ratio for most adults is 2-3% for general use. This means using 2-3 drops of essential oil per teaspoon (5ml) of carrier oil. Adjust the ratio based on factors such as skin sensitivity, age, and the specific essential oil.
4. Measure Carrier Oil
Using a measuring tool, pour the desired amount of carrier oil into a small bowl or directly into the dark glass bottle.
5. Add Essential Oil
Using a dropper or pipette, add the recommended number of drops of essential oil to the carrier oil. For example, if you're using a 2% dilution ratio for 5ml of carrier oil, add 1-2 drops of essential oil.
6. Mix Thoroughly
If using a bowl, stir the mixture thoroughly with a clean utensil. If using the dark glass bottle, securely close the cap and shake the bottle well to ensure even distribution.
7. Store Properly
Store the diluted essential oil in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat. This helps preserve the oil and maintain its efficacy.
Remember, essential oils are potent, and proper dilution is crucial for safe use. Always consult with a qualified aromatherapist or healthcare professional if you have any concerns or specific health conditions.
How to Test for Sensitivity
Before using any new essential oil, always conduct a skin patch test even when properly diluted in coconut oil. Allergic reactions happen very rarely but remain possible. Here’s how:
- Select a small area of skin like inside forearm
- Apply diluted oil mix and cover with bandage
- Check back in 24-48 hours
- If no reaction, oil should be safe to now use elsewhere
Begin conservatively with any new-to-you essential oils even if they complement each other well. Only by carefully increasing usage over weeks and months will your skin adapt to maximize aromatherapy benefits without adverse reactions.
Dilution Ratio Guide By Body Area
To optimize safety and benefits, follow these recommended starting dilution ratios with coconut oil:
Face
Very sensitive facial skin requires smaller dilutions even in adults: 3% or approx 18 drops per ounce is safest to start especially when using multiple oils. For one very mild oil like lavender you may use up to 5% dilution (30 drops per ounce).
Body
Torso skin can tolerate slightly higher dilutions thanks to lower absorbency and abrasions. Still start conservatively with 3-5% (15-25 drops per oz) total essential oil use until skin acclimation occurs. Increase to maximum 10% over time if desired.
Feet & Hands
Tougher skin on the feet and hands allows the highest dilution ratio up to 10% total essential oils (60 drops per oz). This helps maximize aroma therapeutic benefits through a high concentration blend.
Baths
Dispersing essential oils throughout a full tub of water allows higher concentrations to be used safely. Still begin with just 6-12 drops total essential oils added to a dispersant like coconut oil, milk or even Epson salts first. Then stir the mixture into your bathwater. Monitor skin reaction with these diluted whole body applications.
Special Dilution Considerations
The standard essential oil dilution ratio recommendations change in the following special circumstances:
Inflamed Skin
Weeping eczema, psoriasis, acne and any open wounds require smaller dilutions to start in order to avoid stinging and irritation. Be extra conservative with just 1-3 drops of mild oils per ounce of coconut oil until skin begins healing. Then gradually increase concentration.
Sensitive Skin
If you frequently react to fragrances, cosmetics, or ingredients - or take medications that list photosensitivity as a side effect, begin with extremely diluted oils like 0.25% to be safe. This equals approx 1-2 drops of essential oil per ounce of coconut oil. Only increase by small increments later if no adverse reactions develop.
Multiple Oils at Once
While you can safely combine many complementary essential oils together, each added oil increases potency which heightens sensitivity risks. Keep total topical use at about half the concentration limit stated for that body area if blending more than 2-3 oils at once until skin acclimates.
Children
Young skin more readily absorbs oils so drastically smaller dilutions are required. Use just 0.5% - 1% concentration for kids when possible (equal to 3-6 drops essential oils total per ounce of coconut oil). Do not use internally or undiluted on children whatsoever.
Benefits of Coconut Oil as a Carrier Oil
Coconut oil beautifully complements nearly all essential oils thanks to its nourishing fatty acids, vitamins, proteins and hydrating properties. Beneficial aspects include:
MCTs – Medium chain triglycerides like lauric acid easily penetrate skin for faster absorption while pulling in other ingredients with it. This allows your expensive essential oils to spread further.
Moisturizing properties – Dry skin readily absorbs oils without proper dilution. But coconut oil hydrates skin to protect your largest organ while still allowing oils to permeate.
Low Oxidation – With a two year average shelf life, fractionated coconut oil withstands oxidation longer than most carriers. This maintains integrity of any essential oils you blend with it.
Light, Non-Greasy Feel – Despite fatty acid content, coconut oil feels relatively lightweight compared to some carriers. It absorbs well without clogging pores or leaving skin feeling slick or greasy.
Antimicrobial – Natural antifungal and antibacterial properties of coconut oil enhance any blended essential oils own antimicrobial benefits. This allows for more effective topical use.
Final Tips & Considerations
This guide provides valuable tips and precise dilution ratio recommendations to safely enhance the benefits of blending essential oils with coconut oil. To maximize safety, conduct skin patch tests with each new oil before widespread application.
It's vital to start with smaller dilutions and gradually increase them while closely monitoring for any adverse reactions. Additionally, exercise caution when using potent oils such as oregano and clove, even when diluted, by limiting their application on the face and mucous membranes.
These precautions ensure a gradual and safe integration of essential oils with coconut oil, allowing you to experience their combined benefits without compromising skin health or triggering unwanted reactions.