Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Carrier oil
Introduction
Carrier oil, also known as base oil or vegetable oil, is used to dilute essential oils and absolutes before they are applied to the skin. They are so named because they carry the essential oil onto the skin. Carrier oils do not contain a concentrated aroma, unlike essential oils, nor do they evaporate like them.
There are a range of different carrier oils each with their own individual properties and suitability towards different treatments in aromatherapy. Infused oils are a combination of a carrier oil and various herbs.
True carrier oils are generally cold-pressed vegetable oils taken, amongst others:
- Sweet almond
- Grape seed
- Avocado
- Olive oil
- Sesame
- Evening primrose
- Sunflower
- Jojoba oil
- Emu oil
- Nuts:
- Walnut
- Peanut
- Pecan
- Macadamia nut
- Fractionated coconut oil
Sweet almond oil and grapeseed oil are the most popular carrier oils.