The Coconut Carrier Oil

When it comes to using essential oils there comes a time when a carry on oils are used to dilute them. A “carrier oil” is a term used to describe oils that have been extracted from nuts, seeds, or the kernels of plants. Some of them are used when cooking and others have many benefits for the skin and hair.

I use carrier oils when making roll-ons, mixtures, and when applying them on my son. Mixing essentials with a carrier can extend the use of the essential oil; be careful not to make too much out of excitement, everything has a shelf life when it comes to mixing.

In the coming weeks I will post about different types of carrier oils, their benefits, and how they can be used.

Coconut Oil….

A commonly used oil for cooking, lotions, creams, lip balms, deodorant, a popular carrier oil, and much more. Coconut oil comes from the fruit of the coconut trees. To day there have been over 1,000 studies proving the benefits coconut oil has for the body. Some even recognize it as a superfood. This oil is composed of healthy saturated fats which aid in preventing heart disease, improving memory, boosting the immune system (natural antibacterial and anti fungal), great moisturizer, and much more.

Both saturated and unsaturated fats are important for the body, in moderation (when consuming them internally). The body uses fat to protect and support our organs, incorporated in cell membranes, hormone production, to absorb fat-soluble nutrients, and for energy.

Coconut oil is composed of caprylic acid, Laurie acid, omega-3 fatty acid, and capric acid. Caprylic acid is a fatty acid that has antibacterial, antiviral, anti fungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. This acid can also be found in human breast milk. Laurie acid can be found egg yolks, coconuts, and butter; it has antimicrobial properties and can aid in inhibiting the growth of pathogens.  

It’s these components that help make coconut oil a great conditioner, moisturizer for body, face cleanser; some have used it to reduce inflammation and arthritis, improve memory, improve digestion and reduce stomach ulcers, and improve skin issues (eczema, dermatitis, and psoriasis). The potential benefits are endless.

Roll ons and Tonics…

Using fractionated coconut oil can be used to create your personalized roll on or tonic, this way it is liquid at room temperature. I create roll ons for sleep, relaxing, to stay awake during the night at work, to focus…what ever my needs are at the moment. This allows me to have an oil on the go. I make tonics to aid with my stomach cramps each month, up set stomach, congestion…. or another use I can think of at the moment. The

hardest thing is remembering the combinations of the blends I like. When you mix essential oils with a carrier oil you create a shelf life for your creation. Try not to get too excited and make more than a 6 month supply. 

Making Roll ons and tonics is a great way to dilute oils for on the go and members for the family. About 1 teaspoon of carrier oil for every 2-6 drops, of the oil irritates the skin apply more carrier oil, for adults.  For kids up to five years of age 1 Tablespoon for ever 1-3 drops, For kids 5-10 of age, 1 Tablespoon for every 3-6 drops of essential.

Creams and Lotions….

You can create your own body cream or lotion with coconut oil and then add your favorite essential oil for added therapeutic benefits for your body. I melt coconut oil, shea butter, and coco butter; add vitamin E or aloe, cool and blend for a moisturizer cream for my body. I add essential oils for different occasions for the mix. My son has a night-time cream to help him sleep, I have a morning blend to help wake me up in the morning, and my husband has one focused on nursing and helping with arthritis. The blends are endless.

Other uses… 

You can also add coconut oil to many other creations and DIY projects. Lip balms, face moisturizer, deodorants, make up removers, stomach aids, shampoos, conditioners… No wonder why this is the morse commonly used carrier oil. When purchasing coconut oils of DIYs other than roll ons or tonics, I like to use virgin coconut oil.

I hope your find enjoyment as I have in using coconut as a carrier oil among the other oils I use at times. I hope you are able to find use for it on your essential oil journey.

Information is only the first step, now it’s time to take action.

Jasmine Hutchinson BSN, RN, PHN

If you’re looking for places to purchase natural, organic products or essential oils, check out my organic products page for links.

Disclaimer…This blog is intended solely to serve as a resource to health information and to provide you with basic information about the symptoms, cautions, safety concerns, natural remedies, DIY recipes, and nutritional concerns related to all aspects of health. This blog does not provide a comprehensive explanation of all aspects of any health condition or concern or even those aspects that are discussed in this blog. This blog is not intended to be–and you should not use it as–a substitute for medical advice or health care given by a licensed health care provider. Be sure to see a licensed health care provider to help ensure your health and the health and well-being of your family.