Before you start making blends find a comfortable workplace away from sunlight in a well ventilated room so essential oils are not concentrated in the room. It is better that you work on a surface where you will not be worried about spills. Place a special plate or a thick towel on the surface before you start to catch any accidental spills. You should have easy access to hot water. Prepare equipment and material for mixing. Equipment should be washed in hot soapy water, sterilized and allow to cool and air dry. I usually wash all the equipment to mix my own formulations in the dishwasher.
Components of mixtures:
1. Essential oil: It is the basis of any blend as it is the essential oils that have an impact on psycho-emotional sphere and the body. It is essential in the sense that it contains the essence of the characteristic fragrance of the plant from which it is derived. If you are not engaged in professional aromatherapy, buy essential oils in small quantities. Essential oils can oxidize, deteriorate and gradually lose their therapeutic value and aromatic quality over long periods of time. The shelf life of essential oils is usually 18 to 24 months from the date of manufacture unless the label specifies a shorter period. Keep them tightly sealed in a cool dark place. Essential oils should be mixed cautiously and sparingly. The usual measure is by drop(s). Open only those oils that are required for the recipe for the preparation of the blend. Essential oils are flammable and safety precautions should be followed for any type of blending.
2. Carrier (base) oils: Most essential oils must be diluted with carrier oil before use so they will not damage the skin. You can dissolve one or more oils in a carrier oil or blend. Base oils are usually sold in bottles from 50 ml to 400 ml. In the article IMPORTANCE OF CARRIER OILS this topic will be covered in more detail. The main carrier oils are: domestic vegetable (olive, sunflower, corn, etc.) and herbal cosmetic (sweet almond, grape seed, jojoba, wheat germ, avocado, peach, apricot, etc.). Do not use mineral oil.
3. Bases for creams and lotions: They do not contain any fragrances and are used to prepare creams and lotions for the desired skin structure. Buy them for adding to the recipe of essential oils to make your own creams and lotions with natural aromatics and essential components.
4. Salt: Sea or Epsom salt is an excellent base for bath salts mixed in equal portions. For exfoliating facial skin, use only fine salt.
5. Distilled water: Used to make pink or lavender water. It is also used as a component for lotions.
Try to stick to the simple recipes at first when preparing a blend of oils at home. Recommendations for the preparation of blends differ depending on the author. However, there is a general recommendation to use 3 to 5 essential oils for therapeutic blends (some authors recommend no more than 3) and 4 to 7 oils for perfume compositions. Start with simple combinations. Preparation of the blends require not only time, diligence, and experience, but also intuition. Remember that often a simple combination is more effective than complex composition of oils.
Essential oils are highly concentrated liquids. Do not sniff the undiluted oil from the bottle. Apply a drop to the wall of a glass and act as a true connoisseur. Sniff the aroma, evaluate, and take notes.
The shelf life of natural products can be extremely difficult to predict and it is recommended to mix the ingredients of the blends in small amounts. If you want to apply the oil on a small patch of skin 10 ml of the composition is adequate. For a complete massage use 20 ml. If you decide to try a new blend prepare 5 ml to make sure that it suits you.
It is recommended to consider the time needed to prepare your compositions and have everything at hand before you start. Make sure you have the following:
1. The desired number of bottles for the compositions you plan to make.
2. Consider the number of compositions that you will prepare and have the recipes on hand.
3. The necessary herbal and essential oils for making blends.
4. Containers for mixing, measuring cups, beakers, pipettes, stirrers and funnels.
5. Prepare labels. Make sure the exterior of your bottles are clean and free from oil or the labels will not stick.
6. Notepad and pen for notes to record the amount and proportion of essential oils used.
7. Carefully check the name of the oil and observe the dose.
Don’t forget to check yourself, family members or friends for any allergy of the oils you plan to use for yourself or them.
Start the creation of your own blends with the lowest dosages and adding essential oils by a few drops. Take notes about their successes and “failures”. The best way to learn is to prepare the blends according to the recipes or your notes in small quantities and use them. It is good doing this together with interested friends; “one nose is good and two noses – better.”
Preparation of the blend step by step
Method 1:
1. Calculate the quantity of base oil to the preparing blend, based on the volume of the bottle and the amount of essential oils. Calculate the number of drops of each essential oil, based on the amount of base oil.
2. Pour a measured amount of the carrier oil or water as required by the recipe to the blend in the mixing vessel.
3. Add essential oils to the base oil.
4. Stir well to ensure that essential oils are completely dissolved in the base oil before contact with the skin.
5. Place a label with information about the compound on the bottle.
6. Pour the blend into the bottle using the groove mixing vessel or funnel.
7. Close the bottle tightly containing the prepared mixture as well as the bottles of used essential oils.
Method 2:
1. Calculate the quantity of carrier oil or other base oil needed to prepare the blend based on the volume of the bottle and the amount of essential oils. Calculate the number of drops of each essential oil needed based on the amount of base oil.
2. Prepare and place the label on the bottle.
3. Measure out the calculated quantity of base oil and pour through a funnel into the bottle.
4. Measure the right amount of each essential oil in the bottle.
5. Close the bottle tightly and shake it for a few seconds. The blend may appear cloudy due to air bubbles buy will disappear over time.
Example.
Recipe for cleansing oil for face (any skin type): 15 ml of jojoba oil (you can add any oil pleasing to you, or a cosmetic oil for home cooking, the best of which is olive oil. Add 2 drops of rose, jasmine and neroli oils. The result will be a 2% blend.
Create the blend:
1. For example; you want to try this recipe and plan to store the mixture in a bottle with a volume of 5 ml. It is recommended to have a bottle with a slightly larger volume than is specified so you can use 5 ml of jojoba oil as a base. This means that the number for the mixture of this recipe should be less than 3 times (15 ml = 5 ml x 3). Unfortunately, 2 by 3 without a remainder is not divisible. In such cases, I just either increase the concentration or add a minimal amount of essential oils, where the minimum quantity is 1 drop. The prepared solution is more concentrated than the recipe – this will be a 3% solution instead of 2%. Or simply you can select the kind of oil that does not add to the blend – for example, do not add jasmine oil. Then get the 2% solution with rose and neroli oils.
2. Put a label with information about the compound.
3. Pour 5 ml of jojoba oil in a bottle.
4. Use 1 drop of rose, jasmine and neroli oils (3% solution) or 1 drop of rose and neroli oils (2% solution).
5. Close the bottle and shake it to mix and dissolve with the essential oils.
Note 1. Very carefully increase the concentration of essential oils in blends. In this mixture the essential oil is quite mild and not toxic, so the increasing concentration up to 3% of essential oils is acceptable.
Note 2. To reduce the amount of drops take a pipette with a minimum diameter of the hole and use it. The fact is that bottles with dispensers have different drops depending on the hole of the dispenser, temperature and surface tension of the oil.
Creating blends requires very specific knowledge and skills:
1. Knowledge of the properties of aromatic oils (light, medium or heavy; the properties of the oils – for example, bactericidal, etc.)
2. Methods of use
3. Selection of the most appropriate carrier (the type of cosmetic or vegetable oil, water, etc.)
The art of blending essential oils depends on the ability to find different but complementary flavors in the degree of volatilization and its healing properties or (for perfume compounds) scents. In the article “GUIDE TO THE SELECTION OF ESSENTIAL OILS FOR BLENDS” you will find information on the basic properties of essential oils for blending. In the article “AROMATHERAPY APPLICATION METHODS’ GUIDE” describes the main methods and recommended concentration for formulations depending on the methods. However, the different essential oils recommendations sometimes differ from the standard, so if you make up your own blend, be sure to read all available information about the oils you plan to use. For example, peppermint and lemon oils, if they are used for skin care must be dissolved in carrier oil and it’s concentration should be less than the standard. The article “IMPORTANCE OF CARRIER OILS” contains detailed information about the oils – the basics for massage and other styles of blends.
Archives
Equipment List and Measurement Guide
Blending various essential oils increases their ability to calm and heal body and soul. Before you start using essential oils, especially in blends, it is necessary to purchase equipment and to prepare a work place.
Equipment:
1. Clean bottles made of dark glass. Commonly used are bottles of brown or indigo glass so that sunlight does not impair the quality of the essential oil or blend. Do not use plastic bottles as essential oils penetrate through the pores and evaporate. Size of bottles should be from ~ 4 ml (1/6 oz) to 240 ml (~ 8 ounces). Commonly used are bottles with a dispenser or dropper which is important for dispensing essential oils or blends.
2. Bottles for fragrance. Collect bottles for spray perfumes which are from 30 to 240 ml. It is better if they are also made of dark glass.
3. Labels. Any mixture or separate oil should have a label with the ingredients and the proportions, creation date, and instructions for use. Be creative and try different designs. It is possible to draw on the computer or by hand; to use gold or silver ink; use a stamp and then attach a beautifully designed label to the bottle with the blend of its ingredients. The process of creating labels can be fun and fulfilling, especially if it is a small gift for family or friends.
4. The mixing vessel. The mixing container must be glass or ceramic. Some people use a bowl made from clay. The use of plastic containers is not recommended, as some oils corrode and react with plastic surfaces. It is also good if the container has a groove or spout for easy transfusion of liquids into bottles.
5. Beakers and measuring cups. To follow recipes and maintain the proportion of ingredients recommend, it is important to use beakers or measuring cups. Depending on the country in which you live, try to buy them with standard measurements and the typical units for your country. For example, I have a measuring cup in ml and oz, the measure of English-speaking countries. The use of beakers required will depend on the degree of passion you have for aromatherapy and the number of blends you are interested in making. For example, beakers in 5, 10 and 100 ml units are used the most often to measure the desired amount of water and basic cosmetic or household vegetable oils needed for a blend. Beakers and measuring cups can be purchased in medical and chemical equipment stores. If you do not do aromatherapy professionally, in the beginning you will only need to do a measure of the amounts of 5, 10 and 15 ml using tsp or tbsp, respectively (See information on measures below).
6. Pipette. Don’t forget that at the first stage of mixing in small quantities, it is better to measure the amount of essential oils to be used in dispenser bottles. If the feeder is empty, you can use the usual glass eye dropper. There are volumetric pipettes that can be used that will hold, for example, 1 ml. It is recommended that these be washed in hot soapy water when you have finished using them.
7. Stick for stirring. Oil mixtures are very well mixed. It is better to use glass, ceramic or stone sticks. A wooden stirrer can be used but it must be frequently changed for a fresh one as wood it absorbs oil. Plastic sticks are not recommended as they can enter into the reaction with some essential oils, so it is better not to use them.
8. Funnel. Transfusion oils or compositions in the bottles using funnels.
9. A special plate or towel. So not to spoil the surface on which you prepare a blend, purchase a special plate or towel and use it on the surface on which you are working.
Measurements:
In aromatherapy recipes amounts are measured using milliliters or ounces. Some essential oils, especially for home use, are measured in drops. Below are the equivalents used in aromatherapy measurements (approximate ratios):
1 ml ~ 20 drops ~ about 1 g
5 ml ~ 1 teaspoon ~ 100 drops
10 ml ~ 2 teaspoons ~ 200 drops
15 ml ~ 1 tablespoon ~ 300 drops ~ 0.5 oz
For blending use the following information:
0.5% solution of a mixture of ~ 1 drop essential oil to 10 ml of basis
1% solution of a mixture of ~ 1 drop of oil per 5 ml of bases ~ 3 drops of oil in 15 ml of basis
2% solution of a mixture of ~ 2 drops of oil per 5 ml of bases ~ 6 drops of oil in 15 ml of basis
3% solution of a mixture of ~ 3 drops of oil per 5 ml of bases ~ 9 drops of oil in 15 ml of basis
Aromatherapy User Guide
If you decide to do aromatherapy, you should know and use the special rules for the use of essential oils and safety in aromatherapy.
Essential oils are made from ether-containing parts of plants and are produced by several methods: using steam, hydrocarbon gas or solvents. The method of production affects the quality of the product.
One can distinguish three levels of quality:
1. Pure essential oils
2. Cheap oil series
3. Synthetic oils
For aromatherapy it is better to buy pure essential oils, as they contain therapeutically influencing components. On the packaging of oils of good quality, there is information about the Latin name and the parts of the plant from which the oil is obtained; a method of production; and a country of origin. Cheaper essential oils are produced at the expense of lower quality raw materials or by adding other cheaper substances. For example, in the global market, lavender oil is valued and comes from raw materials which are grown in Provence. Lavender oil produced in Moldova, however, has lower quality properties and is cheaper. The cheaper series oils have less therapeutic effect, and synthetic oil does not have a value from the point of view of aromatherapy. Chemical substances give only the smell, while the greatest therapeutic effect of pure essential oils are based on the influence of the components of the oil.
They affect people differently pharmacologically, physiologically and psychologically. The pharmacological effect is a biochemical change in the body caused by the aromatic oil in the blood, in turn interacting with the hormones and enzymes. The physiological effects related to the properties of oils. For example, lavender is calming, rose lifts the senses. The psychological impact is the individual reaction of a person, which may be associated with positive or negative memories of past events.
SAFETY RULES
1. NEVER USE undiluted essential oils or essential oils not mixed with a base carrier, unless required by the recipe, because essential oils can be highly concentrated and even very toxic. When applied to the skin undiluted oils may cause irritation, redness and burning.
2. When beginning to use an unfamiliar essential oil, make sure you find the smell is NICE or pleasing, and TEST yourself for the ALLERGENICITY to this oil. A new oil can harm you if you don’t like the smell – it is a psychological reaction. The article below gives methods to check for allergic reactions, which depend on the type of oil. Also consult the available information on oils, including PRECAUTIONS. For example, rose oil is not to use in the first months of pregnancy, and citrus oils are not to be used before going out in the sun.
3. Some essential oils CANNOT be used during pregnancy, or if a person suffers from asthma, epilepsy and (some other diseases – you need to either leave this out or state the disesase). In particular, dill can not be used during depression and clary sage can not be combined with alcohol. Anyone with high blood pressure should avoid hyssop oil, rosemary, any kind of sage and pine. If you are pregnant or have a serious medical condition, please consult with a specialist.
4. Do NOT USE essential oils more than necessary. Essential oils, as a natural product, will do less harm than chemical drugs. But, like any other substance in large amounts, they can be harmful. As one becomes more familiar with the world of aromatherapy and using essential oils, one will gradually feel how much of a recipe is needed for the proper result. It depends on the ability of the nose to distinguish the smell, skin type and awareness of the senses, and psychological reactions to the oil.
5. There are essential oils that are NOT SUITABLE for aromatherapy. For example, oil of wormwood, mint marsh, onion, camphor, horseradish, bitter almond, and some others.
6. Do NOT USE the following oils before going out on the sun since they can cause the formation of age spots. These are oils of: lemon, mandarin, orange, grapefruit, lime, bergamot, verbena, honeysuckle, dill, patchouli, cinnamon, caraway, laurel, and dill.
7. Essential oils SHOULD NOT be ingested without special consultation with a specialist. Purchased oils can be of insufficient quality for ingestion, so for your own safety, ensure the quality of the essential oil.
8. Do NOT TREAT severe illness themselves only by means of aromatherapy. Be sure to consult your doctor.
9. Essential oils should be stored out of the reach of CHILDREN. Treat them like medications that need to be stored properly.
10. Do NOT STORE essential oils or blends in plastic bottles as they will evaporate through the plastic.
11. Essential oils should be stored AWAY from heat.
THE BASIC RULES
1. Essential oils should be stored in DARK (cobalt or brown) GLASS bottles because of their sensitivity to exposure to light and air. They should be tightly closed and stored where possible, IN A COOL PLACE (not less than 0 C (32 F) but not more than +30 C (86 F).
2. The dosing of essential oils given in DROPS.
3. RECORD composition and proportion of mixtures of components, date of manufacture and purpose of use of the stored blends.
4. Pay attention to the safety precautions for the oil.
5. Begin to use essential oil or a blend with the SMALLEST of dosages. Additional amounts can be added if the desired affect does not occur with the smallest dose.
6. When using a diffuser, only use it for 20 minutes the first several times.
7. For new recipes prepare the composition or blend with a small amount of base (for example, 5 ml of cream) to check the suitability of the recipe.
8. When you take the first and second bath with an essential oil or blend, do not stay in the bath for more than 4-5 minutes. If you have not felt any distress or discomfort, then you can safely use a proven recommendations.>
9. For security purposes, before using a new oil it is advisable to check your reaction for any allergies, depending on how it will be used. This is especially important for those who are allergy-prone.
METHODS OF TESTING FOR ALLERGENICITY
1. For inhalation and cleansing: Apply 1 drop of oil on a handkerchief, and only sniff the handkerchief for one day. The next day apply oil to the surface of the wrist and, if you do not have any allergic reactions, including headache, weakness, and ( you need to state what other reactions could be, or omit this others), you may begin to use it.
2. For use on the skin: Pre-check technique for inhalation and cleansing. The first method is to apply base oil on the sternum or behind the ear to check for allergic reactions. Leave on for 12 hours. If no adverse reaction occurs, add a drop of essential oils for massage by mixing in a teaspoon of a carrier oil and applying the mixture on the sternum or behind the ear. Again, check the reaction of the oil after 12 hours. The second method: Take a 2 – 3 minute bath with 1-2 drops of essential oil.
3. For use inside the body: Blend 1 drop of the oil with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and take three times during the first day. Double the dose the next day, again taking it three times during the day. If no allergic reactions occur, then you can ingest this oil or blend.
The article “AROMATHERAPY APPLICATION METHODS’ GUIDE” discusses the different methods of using essential oils and the article “EQUIPMENT LIST AND MEASUREMENT GUIDE” gives some hints including percentage composition.