Carrier Oils
Complete guide to carrier oils for diluting essential oils. Learn about each carrier oil's properties, benefits, and best uses.
Argan Oil
Argan oil (Argania spinosa) is a luxurious carrier oil cold-pressed from the kernels of the argan tree, which grows exclusively in Morocco. Often called "liquid gold," it has been used by Berber women for centuries for skin, hair, and nail care. Its exceptional balance of fatty acids, vitamin E, and unique compounds called squalene and ferulic acid make it one of the most prized carrier oils in modern aromatherapy and cosmetics.
Avocado Oil
Avocado oil (Persea americana) is a rich, deeply nourishing carrier oil cold-pressed from the flesh of ripe avocados. Produced primarily in Mexico, New Zealand, South Africa, and Kenya, it is one of the few carrier oils derived from the fruit itself rather than the seed or nut. Its thick, nutrient-dense composition makes it particularly valuable for dry, mature, and damaged skin in aromatherapy applications.
Castor Oil
Castor oil (Ricinus communis) is a thick, viscous carrier oil cold-pressed from the seeds of the castor bean plant. India is the world's largest producer, followed by Brazil, China, and Mozambique. Renowned for its exceptionally high ricinoleic acid content, castor oil has been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine and is particularly valued for hair growth, skin healing, and as a deeply penetrating carrier for essential oils.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil (Cocos nucifera) is one of the most versatile and widely used carrier oils in aromatherapy, extracted from the meat of mature coconuts. Sourced primarily from the Philippines, India, Indonesia, and Sri Lanka, it is available in both refined and virgin (unrefined) forms and is prized for its moisturising properties, pleasant tropical scent, and excellent compatibility with essential oils.
Grapeseed Oil
Grapeseed oil (Vitis vinifera) is a lightweight, virtually odourless carrier oil cold-pressed from the seeds of grapes, typically a by-product of the wine-making industry. Produced primarily in France, Italy, Spain, and Argentina, it is valued in aromatherapy for its fast absorption, non-greasy finish, and high linoleic acid content, making it particularly well-suited for oily and combination skin types.
Jojoba Oil
Jojoba oil (Simmondsia chinensis) is technically a liquid wax ester rather than a true oil, extracted from the seeds of the jojoba shrub native to the arid regions of the southwestern United States and Mexico. Produced primarily in Arizona (USA), Mexico, Argentina, and Israel, it is one of the most popular carrier oils in aromatherapy due to its remarkable similarity to human sebum and its exceptionally long shelf life.
Olive Oil
Olive oil (Olea europaea) is one of the oldest and most historically significant carrier oils, cold-pressed from the fruit of the olive tree. Produced primarily in Spain, Italy, Greece, and Tunisia, it has been used for skin care and therapeutic purposes since ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman times. Whilst heavier than many modern carrier oils, extra virgin olive oil remains a practical and accessible choice for aromatherapy, particularly for body massage and dry skin treatments.
Sweet Almond Oil
Sweet almond oil (Prunus dulcis) is a light, gently nutty carrier oil cold-pressed from the kernels of sweet almonds. Sourced predominantly from California, Spain, Italy, and Iran, it has been a staple in traditional skin care and aromatherapy for centuries. Its mild scent, excellent spreadability, and rich nutrient profile make it one of the most popular and affordable carrier oils worldwide.