Make It Yourself – Massage Oil
November 16th, 2009
Using essential oils in massage is very beneficial to your body and mind. But you cannot put them directly on your skin. This is how to make your very own massage oil:
1. Get yourself a carrier oil. A carrier oil is used to ‘carry’ the essential oil that you will use.
Examples of carrier oils:
Olive Oil. Wonderful for the skin, but it can be a bit strong in smell. Be sure it doesn’t overpower the smell of your essential oil.
Sunflower Oil. Rich in Vitamin E and essential fatty acids.
Wheatgerm Oil. Rich in Vitamins A, B, C and E! Smell is rather strong but it is great for toning the skin, stretch marks, scar tissue and firming.
Avocado Oil. Thick oil. Great for sensitive skin! Many people with eczema and psoriasis swear by avocado oil. Nutrient rich!
Almond Oil. Great for your skin, hair and nails! Rich in Vitamin D. Easiliy absorbed by the skin but be careful…those with nut allergies must avoid.
Grapeseed Oil. Very light oil making it perfect for oily skin types.
Jojoba Oil. Comes from the seed of the jojoba plant. It’s actually more of a waxy substance made into oil. Has antibacteria properties and is great for those with acne.
Coconut Oil. (Fractionated) Light. Not greasy. Long shelf life. Does not stain fabric.
2. Get yourself some of those little brown or amber bottles (must be a drak shade)…the kind with the little dropper in the top.
A small bottle is best because this mixture will go a long way. Put your carrier oil into the bottle about 1/2 – 3/4 full. Add 15-20 drops of your choice of essential oils, tightly cap and shake very well.
3. Essential oil ideas: There are so many choices to pick from, but here a couple ideas to get you started:
Lavender (relaxation, burns, skin conditions, stress)
Lavender & tea tree (athlete’s foot, cold/flu)
Ylang Ylang (general well being)
Lavender, tea tree, eucalyptus (equal drops) (congestion in chest/head)
Lavender, Frankincense (4 drops to every 1 drop frankincense) – Relaxation, stress relief
Geranium, Rosewood, Bergamot (equal drops) Uplift spirits, de-stress, relax.
Lavender, Rosemary (equal drops) Muscle aches.
Eucalyptus, lavender, tea tree, peppermint (or spearmint) – equal drops. (colds and flu, sinus, congestion.)
*note: if combining different essential oils, just stay within the 15-20 drop total of all oils combined.
Store your new mixture in a cool, dry place. Can last 2-3 months.
