You will frequently read about or hear about two different
types of aromatherapy oils, essential oils and base oils.
Essential oils (or absolutes) are the oils containing the scent
or aroma. The oils are frequently steam
distilled from the essence of the flower, herb, tree, shrub or root. Examples of essential oils are lavender,
sandalwood, holy basil and chamomile. Therapeutic
grade essential oils used in massages are very strong and need to be diluted
before applying on to the skin. Oils
used for diluting essential oils are called base oils.
Base oils (or carrier oils) are of vegetable origin, most
being extracted from fruits and nuts. Examples of base oils are avocado oil, sweet
almond oil and grape seed oil. The
highest quality base oils are cold-pressed and unrefined.
With the knowledge of the difference between absolutes and
carrier oils, you can now create a wonderful oil blends for massage use.
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