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Carrier oils are those which are basically vegetable or fruit-based and serve as a solvent for the essential oils, which are too concentrated to be used neat and too powerful to be used directly. They provide lubrication during a massage so that friction over the client’s skin is avoided. Carrier oils are generally non-perfumed oils and are cold-pressed vegetable oils. However, some carrier oils have therapeutic benefits as well such as avocado oil, sandalwood oil, grape seed oil, sweet almond oil, etc.
Some popular carrier oils are:
1. Avocado oil: Avocado oil has a mildly sweet and nutty aroma. It is deep olive green in color. It is a heavy oil with a waxy and fatty feel to it. It is a rich source of vitamins, A, D, E, B1, B2 and B5. It penetrates deep into the skin and is rich in amino acids and sterols. It may prove beneficial in the management of eczema, psoriasis and provides sun protection besides its usual function as a carrier oil (lubrication during massage).
2. Wheat germ oil: Wheat germ oil is dark yellow to orange in color and has a fairly strong odor. It is a medium density oil and penetrates the skin easily. It can soothe irritated skin, eczema and heal scarred tissues. It is an anti-oxidant and is rich in vitamins A, E, B vitamins and contains lecithin.
3. Grape seed oil: Grape seed oil is usually clean and light with a tinge of yellow or green colors. It is also an considered effective for nausea, eye and skin infections, kidney and liver diseases, and chicken pox, etc. Because it is rich in linoleic acid, it smooths out wrinkles and lines and enables cells retain their epithelial structure.
4. Sweet almond oil: This has a fine texture and is semi-easily absorbed. It softens and soothes the skin and is rich is in Vitamins A, B and E. It has a light yellow tinge and a sweet nutty odor.
5. Apricot kernel oil: This oil has a faint aroma, clear and has a tinge of yellow color. It is used on sensitive and delicate skins and is beneficial in calming dehydration, etc. It is rich in oleic and linoleic acids and vitamins A, B, E, etc.
Of course, there are many other less popular carrier oils too such as sunflower oil, peach kernel oil, coconut oil, sesame oil, hazelnut oil, jojoba oil, camellia oil, evening primrose oil, rosehip oil, St. John’s wort oil, calendula oil, macadamia oil, olive oil, peanut oil, pecan oil and apricot kernel oil. They are used as per the mix of the top, middle and base note oils and well as keeping in mind the specific requirements and condition of the person on which they are to be used.
*Please note that all essential and carrier oils can start an allergic reaction on sensitive skin and most of the oils should not be used during pregnancy. Some oils are harmful to conditions of epilepsy, etc. Do not use any oil whose aroma you are uncomfortable with. Consult your aromatherapist or holistic health therapist before using any oil.
Mamta Singh is a published author of the books Migraines for the Informed Woman (Publisher: Rupa & Co.), the upcoming Mentor Your Mind (Publisher: Sterling Publishers) and An Urban Woman's Integrated Fitness Guide (Publishers: Hay House). She is also a seasoned business, creative and academic writer. She is a certified fitness instructor, personal trainer & sports nutritionist through IFA, Florida USA. Mamta is an NCFE-certified Holistic Health Therapist SAC Dip U.K. She is the lead writer and holds Expert Author status in many well-received health, fitness and nutrition sites. She runs her own popular blogs on migraines in women and holistic health. Mamta holds a double Master's Degree in Commerce and Business. She is a registered practitioner with the UN recognised Art of Living Foundation. Link: http://www.migrainingjenny.wordpress.com. Visit www.mamtasingh.com
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