Why essential oil dilution is important ?

Have you ever wondered why essential oils come in the tiny bottles which just a 10 ml bottle that they do? That’s because the powerful plant compounds found in the oils you’re purchasing are so highly concentrated that a very small amount is more than enough to deliver thousands of health benefits. Though there are times when certain oils can be applied “neat,” or undiluted, in general dilution is recommended for topical use. Undiluted use of essential oils on the skin can be harmful and potentially cause severe irritation or sensitization. Diluting is has two primary benefits:

• It may increase absorption by spreading the oil over a larger surface area
• It decreases the likelihood of a negative reaction

How To Dilute Essential Oils？

Certain situations that affect small areas, such as a burn, bug bite, or forehead tension may benefit from the occasional use of undiluted oils.

Topical use of essential oils may induce a sensitivity response, especially on young or sensitive skin. Carrier oils such as avocado, grapeseed, sweet almond, hazelnut, jojoba, coconut and fractionated coconut oil are ideally suited for diluting to safe topical levels.To decrease the likelihood of developing a sensitivity, it is advisable to use a carrier oil to dilute the more potent oils and when trying an oil for the first time. The recommend dilution ratio is typically 1 drop of essential oil to three drops of carrier oil. A diluted mixture can be prepared in advance by mixing the oils in an empty glass bottle or for a single dose by mixing the oils directly in the hands.

By adding essential oils to a carrier, like coconut, or olive oil, the active chemical compounds are not only better absorbed into the skin but they are also more easily spread over the surface of your body for better therapeutic benefits.

Guide to Diluting Essential Oils

How much or how little essential oils to use depends on what your purpose is. We’ll cover how many drops of essential oil to add to your carrier oil later in below part：

25% Dilution.

This is ideal for those who intend to use an essential oil on children 6 months to 6 years of age. Note: It is recommended that you do not use essential oils on children under the age of 2 unless directed by your healthcare provider.

25% = 1 drop per 4 teaspoons of carrier oil

1% Dilution.

This percentage is recommended for those children over the age of 6, pregnant women, elderly adults, people with a sensitive skin type, and those with preexisting conditions. This is the dilution recommended when using essential oils topically, for massage or in lotions and rubs.

1% = 1 drop per teaspoon of carrier oil or 5-6 drops per ounce.

2% Dilution.

This is ideal for most normal adults. For use in daily aromatherapy or topical application.

2% = 2 drops per teaspoon of carrier oil or 10-12 drops per ounce

3% Dilution.

This is ideal for treating temporary health concerns and topical application for muscle pain, injury or respiratory problems.

3% = 3 drops per teaspoon of carrier oil or 15-18 drops per ounce

25% Dilution.

There are many essential oils that can be used at this strength. Some can even be used with no dilution, or “neat.” This dilution percentage is recommended for use with healthy adults, and still we advise that you use caution as some people will notice irritation or increased sensitivity to oils at this potency.

25% dilution = 25 drops per teaspoon of carrier oil or 125-150 drops per ounce