Foundations of Aromatherapy

Watch Formulating Synergy with Blending Factor with Jade

Step 7: Formulating Your Synergy: How many drops of each essential oil?

The final step in creating the blend is to decide how many drops of each essential oil to use. This can be accomplished by using the blending factor. The Blending Factor is a concept I learned during my education in aromatherapy at the Raworth Centre of Natural Medicine in England. Over the years, many have found that it is an invaluable tool for creating well-balanced blends. The blending factor can be thought of in terms of an aromatic potency scale and is utilized as a tool for determining the appropriate and specific number of drops for each essential oil within a given blend or synergy.

The blending factor is on a scale of 1 to 10.
1 = Powerful aroma, use less in blend
10 = Tends to be more volatile, lighter aroma, use more in blend

Perceiving blending factor

The following exercise is meant to help support your awareness of what determines an individual essential oil’s blending factor.

• Step One: Choose 3 essential oils out of your repertoire of oils.
• Step Two: Remove the lids off all three bottles.
• Step Three: Using both your hands, hold the bottles together so that all the tops are at the same height.
• Step Four: Swirl the bottles under your nose, slowly a number of times. Then pause a moment and repeat. Repeat as needed to gain further insight.
• Step Five: Decide which of the three is the most potent (which one seems to be standing out the strongest), and then place this one down on the table. Then with the remaining two bottles repeat Steps 3, 4 and five.

With only three oils, once you have determined the second most potent essential oil, the remaining oil would be considered the least potent. You then have the oils in a line from most potent to less potent which means the first one will have the least number of drops while the third one shall have the most and the 2nd a middle number of drops.

You will have a chance to work on an exercise to help support your application of blending factor at the end of this section.

Setting a Blending factor

If you find that you are using an essential oil for which no blending factor has been given, then you can use the above exercise to figure it out. Often it is best to compare the unknown essential oil to an essential oil from the same botanical family. For instance, the blending factor for Fir (Abies alba) has not been provided. Fir belongs in the same family as Pine (Pinus sylvestris) and Cedarwood (Cedrus atlantica), both of which have known blending factors.

Blending factor is flexible: The blending factor provides the beginning blender with a way of figuring out how many drops of each essential oil should go into the blend. The blending factor is by no means written in stone for it is meant to be flexible to the essential oils in your repertoire. This means that we acknowledge that essential oils vary in strength from company to company, from year to year, harvest to harvest, etcetera. So one should feel free to adopt different blending factor numbers based upon comparison with other oils of stable potency such as Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) or Neroli (Citrus aurantium), which would always be on the most potent, a #1 or the citrus oils which are always more volatile and lighter and hence more can be used. (within reason, of course.)

Potency or therapeutic activity: The blending factor is based upon potency of aroma and to a much smaller degree (if at all) therapeutic potency. I would compare blending factors as follows: Roman chamomile has a blending factor of 1 which means it is very ‘potent’ and only a small amount needs to be used for a blend or synergy in relation to other oils being blended. Lavender, on the other hand, has a blending factor of 7 which means a medium or higher percentage of lavender can be used than roman chamomile.

I would also use the concept of blending factor when deciding on how many drops of each essential oil to put in a bath. I would use less of ‘potent’ oils such as Neroli and Roman chamomile (2-3 drops per bath), a medium amount of Geranium (Pelargonium graveolens) or Ylang ylang (Cananga odorata) (3-5 drops per bath) and a higher number of drops for Mandarin (Citrus reticulata) or Lavender (7-10 drops per bath).

Blending factor in practice
Continuing on with our example for Tendinitis/Stress, we can decide on drops as follows:

There are two ways of figuring out the drops: via mathematical equation or by intuitive observation.

I have never been fond of mathematical equations and essential oils do not always fit into precise calculations so the first number chosen is, in a sense, a bit random whilst at the same time maintaining its relation to the others. In this example, German Chamomile and Sweet Marjoram are the two most potent essential oils while Helichrysum is a little more potent than Lavender. Hence, I chose to work with the most potent oils first by designating 3 drops for German Chamomile and 6 drops for Sweet Marjoram. This added up to 9 drops leaving 21 drops to be divided between the other two oils. I then examined the varying strengths of the Helichrysum and Lavender in my repertoire of essential oils and decided on 9 drops for Helichrysum and 12 drops for Lavender.

The mathematical equation method of figuring out exact drops would be performed as follows:

First add up the total blending factors: 7 +1+3+5 = 16

Then divide the blending factor number for each essential oil by 16, which would look something like this.

You now have the percentage for each essential oil which make up the 30 drops for the 5% dilution. To obtain the actual number of drops you would then multiply the percentage for each essential oil by 30.

The final blend would then look like this:

As you can see, the final results using the mathematical formula are pretty close to what I originally got with the more intuitive approach. A blending factor chart has been provided below.

Blending Factor Chart

Watch About the Aromatherapy Consultation with Jade

Introduction

The art and science of blending is one of the most fascinating, dynamic, and creative aspects of aromatherapy. Considered a mystery to some and a science to others, this chapter has been designed to support and enhance skills for effective yet creative and unique blending. Designing a unique blend for each client is the very heart of holistic aromatherapy.

In the words of Maury, “To reach the individual we need an individual remedy. Each of us is a unique message. It is only the unique remedy which will suffice. We must, therefore, seek odoriferous substances which present affinities with the human being we intend to treat, those which will compensate for his deficiencies and those which will make his faculties blossom. It was by searching for this remedy that we encountered the individual prescription which on all points represents the identity of the individual.”

STAGE ONE: THE CONSULTATION (ASSESSMENT)

A consultation is designed to collect information or data regarding the client’s current state of health; general lifestyle, including diet and exercise; emotional well-being; and current/past medical history.

A consultation supports the therapist’s understanding of the nature of the condition, how it is affecting the individual client, and what intervention would be most beneficial.

A consultation is not designed to diagnose an illness or disorder as these are beyond the scope of practice for aromatherapists and other complementary healthcare practitioners. Only physicians are able to diagnose.

Within a holistic framework, the consultation is designed to:

• Gather information from the client including the client’s current state of health, general lifestyle (including diet and exercise), emotional well-being, and current/past medical history
• Evaluate the nature of the condition to be addressed, whether it be physical, emotional/mental, spiritual/energetic, or a combination of all three
• Provide the foundation for designing and performing a safe, knowledgeable, and effective treatment based upon the individual’s needs
• Build a professional relationship between client and practitioner

A sample consultation form is provided on the next page. This form should be used for your case studies. Feel free to make changes or adjustments to the questions as desired. You may also use your own intake form, if you have one. Just remember to ask a balance of questions for emotional and physical health/well-being.

Blank Consultation form. or Blank consultation (word doc)

Watch About Gels with Jade

GELS

Aloe vera is a succulent perennial plant belonging to the lily family that grows wild in Madagascar and large portions of the African continent. Because of its many therapeutic uses, it is now commercially cultivated in the United States, Japan, and countries in the Caribbean and Mediterranean. Aloe vera is a common houseplant.

The aloe plant is best known for its healing aloe vera gel, a thin, clear, jelly-like substance that can be squeezed or scraped from the inner part of the fleshy leaf. A soothing juice is also made from this gel.

Aloe vera gel has some amazing therapeutic benefits, including anti-inflammatory , antibacterial , antifungal2, cooling, and hydrating effects. Aloe vera gel is increasingly being employed for aromatic applications for the skin and muscular system, and is used for localized applications for muscular aches and pains, varicose veins, burns , wound healing, and other tissue damage.

Potential toxicity: Although rare, hypersensitivity reactions have occurred and that preparations using aloe vera gel should not be used for treating deep vertical wounds, such as those produced during cesarean delivery. In these cases, aloe vera may delay wound healing. Individuals who are hypersensitive to aloe vera may experience a burning sensation on the skin. It may be prudent to ask allergy-sensitive individuals if they have a possible allergy to aloe vera or to administer the patch test to ensure that a reaction will not result.
In general, gels are useful for:

• Inflamed skin conditions
• Muscle aches and pains
• Thin or fragile skin (elderly)
• Varicose veins
• Bug bites
• Supporting hydration of the skin
• Migraines/Headaches
• Burns
• Wound healing (ulcers)
• To cool inflamed, itchy skin

Gel Base Options
Aloe vera gel products come in four main types: aloe vera juice (used in cream and lotion formulation), aloe vera gel, aloe vera gelly, and aloe vera gel base*. When making a gel, I most frequently use aloe vera gel and aloe vera gelly. Both of these gels can be combined with additional water (hydrosols) and carrier oil (including herbal oils) to create a customized product.

During my mentorship with Jan Kusmirek, his company, Fragrant Earth, provided an exceptional gel base that allowed me to add hydrosols, herbal oils, carrier oils, and other botanical actives. I absolutely loved it. Recently, I discovered an aloe vera gel base that offers similar capabilities, with the only exception being the inability to add hydrosols.

Gel Dilution Rates:

For infants:

• 5% dilution = 3-5 drops

For adults:

• Sensitive skin:5-1% dilution
• Normal, healthy skin: 1- 2.5% dilution
• Acute inflammation or pain:5 – 5% dilution

Do I need to use a preservative?

When creating a product for resale, it’s advisable to consider adding a preservative to your gel, as water-based products are susceptible to the growth of mold and bacteria. While preservatives are beneficial for maintaining the integrity and safety of retail products, they are not essential for gels intended for personal use at home. Including preservatives will also increase the overall cost of producing the gel.

If you choose not to use a preservative in your homemade gel, there are a few important steps you can take to minimize the risk of contamination. First, always use distilled water instead of tap water, as distilled water is free from impurities and microorganisms that could contribute to the growth of mold or bacteria. Second, ensure that you use the gel within 1-2 months of making it. This relatively short shelf life helps to prevent the development of any unwanted microorganisms that could potentially harm your skin or compromise the quality of the product.

By following these guidelines and maintaining proper hygiene during the production process, you can create a safe and effective gel for personal use without the added expense of preservatives.

Note: Potential Preservatives to use include Leucidal, Geogard Ultra^TM, OptiphenTM bsb-w preservative, Geogard ECT^TM, or Euxyl™ k 903. If you are going to use a preservative, please read the supplier information on pH requirements, dilution rate, and how to combine it with the product.

How to formulate a gel with Aloe vera GELLY

This gel is designed to fill two 2-ounce glass jars.

My intention/goal: To create a soothing gel that can be used to relieve itchiness from bug bites and also on sunburn during the summer months.
My focus: Relieve itch, soothe sunburn
My approach: System affinities/Therapeutic Actions

1. Select 3-5 essential oils to work (Core/Enhance/Harmonize)

2. Select other ingredients (includes carrier oils, herbal oils, hydrosols)

This formula had a weight of 108.45g.
Each 2oz jar weighed approximately 54.23 grams.

3. Using a small (10ml) beaker, add drops of each essential oil. After adding drops of one essential oil, press the tare to weigh each individual essential oil.
4. In another glass beaker or measuring cup, combine aloe vera gelly, hydrosols and calendula herbal oil. Weigh each ingredient and tare the scale in between each ingredient.
5. Combine essential oils into the base.
6. Stir ingredients until well combined.
7. Once combined, use a silicon spatula to scoop the gel into the jars. Each jar should hold approximately 54.23 grams of gel.
8. Label the bottle with the name and list all ingredients.
9. The gel is now ready for use.

Shelf life

A gel without a preservative will be good for approximately 1-2 months. I recommend using it within 1 month. Store in a cool room or in the refrigerator.

How to Use
Apply gel to localized areas for relief of bug bites or apply to areas of the body that have been sunburned. This gel is cooling, soothing to inflammation, and relieves itchiness.

Pain Gel

I’ve been making this pain gel for over 30 years now. My father swears that it relieves his back pain. I typically had made it with St. John’s wort and Arnica herbal oils but decided to try Black cumin CO2 extract in this formulation.

Watch video reel on making this gel here!

Recipe

• 2 fl. oz (57g) Aloe Vera gel
• 1 tsp Black cumin CO2 total extract (can leave out or replace with arnica herbal oil or CO2 extract or St. John’s wort herbal oil)
• 25 drops Laurel essential oil
• 10 drops Peppermint essential oil
• 10 drops Wintergreen essential oil

Combine all ingredients in a glass measuring cup. Whisk to combine. Using a funnel, pour into a 2oz bottle. Place the pump lid on and shake. Note: You may need to give it a good shake before each use.

Use as needed to relieve pain.

Safety note: Avoid mucus membranes and wash hands after applying to avoid getting into your eyes if you happen to need to rub your eyes after applying.

Pain Gel Recipe #2

This is the same formulation as above but with the Aloe Vera Gel Base from Shay and Company. (https://shayandcompany.com/product/aloe-vera-gel-base-made-with-organic-aloe/)

This recipe makes one 2 oz jar and one ½ oz jar.

1. Using a small (10ml) beaker, add drops of each essential oil. After adding drops of one essential oil, press the tare to weigh each individual essential oil.
2. Combine the aloe vera gel base and St. John’s wort in another glass beaker or measuring cup. Weigh each ingredient and tare the scale between each ingredient.
3. Combine essential oils into the base.
4. Stir ingredients until well combined.
5. Once combined, use a silicon spatula to scoop the gel into the jars.
6. Label the bottle with the name and list all ingredients.
7. The gel is now ready for use.

Use as needed to relieve pain.

Safety note: Avoid mucus membranes and wash your hands after applying to avoid getting it into your eyes if you need to rub them after applying.

Watch: About Inhalation

Watch: Inhalation Part 2: Formulating an inhaler

Inhalation refers to the act of breathing in or drawing in a substance such as air or, in our case, essential oils. Aromatic inhalations are most commonly used for their therapeutic benefits on emotional well-being or on the upper respiratory system. Aromatic inhalation is also used for smell training when individuals lose their sense of smell or experience a reduction in their sense of smell.

Benefit of Inhalations for the Respiratory System

Essential oil inhalation can reduce nasal congestion and open up the nasal passages. Steam inhalations, specifically, may be used to reduce congestion, expectorate mucus, and soothe dry nasal passages.

Benefit of Inhalations for Emotional Well-being

Inhalations may be used for their ability to relieve emotional distress, to relieve stress and anxiety, or to reduce agitation and irritability. Aromatic inhalations can relax and calm or stimulate, energize and inspire. Inhalation can also serve to support an individual during times of depression, trauma, or grieving.

Other benefits of essential oil inhalation include:

• To relieve Insomnia or other sleep disorders
• To open up nasal passage and reduce inflammation due to rhinitis (allergy)
• To reduce or prevent motion sickness or travel sickness
• To strengthen the sense of smell
• To support the return of the sense of smell (smell training)
• To support and enhance memory
• To relieve post-surgical or pregnancy related nausea
• To support and enhance immunity
• To reduce test anxiety for kids, teenagers, and adults
• To relieve stress-related headaches or migraines
• To enhance appetite or reduce appetite

Aromatic Inhalations in Hospital Settings

Jane Buckle has reported the use of aromatic inhalations in hospitals to help reduce anxiety, speed transition, and reduce nausea in labor units. Inhaled peppermint appears to relieve post-surgical nausea while inhaled clary sage can help speed delivery.

According to Buckle, “In the emergency room we use essential oils such as Origanum majorana (marjoram) or Lavandula angustifolia (Lavender) to help patients calm down so they can tell us what has happened to them more coherently. We also use Mentha x piperita (peppermint), Mentha spicata (spearmint) and Zingiber officinale (ginger) to reduce nausea and we offer Angelica archangelica (angelica root or seed) or Rosa damascena (rose) for acute distress.”

Methods of Inhalation

There are several ways in which to utilize inhalation as a form of therapy.

Direct inhalation:

Direct inhalation refers to the technique of sniffing or inhaling an essential oil directly from a bottle, a handkerchief, or a cotton ball, or from the palms. Types of direct inhalation include:

• Direct from the bottle: Create a synergy (undiluted essential oils) utilizing 3-5 essential oils and place them in a small bottle. Have the client waft the bottle under their nose while taking deep inhalations. This can be done 3-4x a day or as needed.
• Handkerchief/Cotton-ball: Place 2-4 drops of essential oil or synergy on the tissue or cloth. Hold the cloth in the palms of your hand and take 2-3 deep inhalations through the nose. If using a cotton ball, gently waft the cotton ball under the client’s nose. This technique can be used 2-3x a day or as needed.
• Direct palm inhalation: Direct palm inhalation refers to the technique of sniffing or inhaling an essential oil/s or synergy directly from the palms of your hands. Direct palm inhalations are most commonly utilized for the relief of emotional distress, to uplift and transform one’s consciousness, or simply to relax and breathe.

Personal Inhalers

• Inhalers: An inhaler tube can be utilized for emotional conditions, mental fatigue, memory enhancement, hormonal balance, allergies, respiratory congestion, sinus infections, and simply to offer a pleasant aroma!
• Smelling salts: Create a synergy with a total of 20-30 drops utilizing 3-5 essential oils and place in a 10ml (1/3 ounce) bottle. Once the synergy is in the bottle, fill the remainder of the bottle with either fine or coarse sea salts. Have the client waft the bottle under the nose while taking deep inhalations. This can be done 3-4x a day or as needed.

Essential Oil Dilution Rate for Inhalers/Smelling Salts

The recommended number of drops per inhaler or smelling salt formulation is 25 drops. A general framework would be 20-30 drops per inhaler.

How to Formulate an Inhaler

This is for one tube.

My intention/goal: To create an inhaler to support memory and to energize
My focus: Emotions/Psyche
My approach: System Affinities/Therapeutic Actions

1. Select 3-5 essential oils to work with based upon client consultation and goals of treatment or product. Core/Enhance/Harmonize

2. Place drops of chosen essential oil into a small bowl or beaker.

a. Place the pad into the inhaler tube, then pour a beaker of essential oils directly onto the cotton pad in a tube. OR
b. Using an organic cotton pad cut to size or pad that came with inhaler tube, soak up the essential oil from the beaker. Place pad into inhaler tube.

3. Place cap on end of tube to seal in cotton pad.
4. Label tube with ingredients.
5. Inhaler tube is now ready for use!
6. Use as needed throughout the day.

Shelf life:

An aromatic inhaler will be good for approximately 6-12 months. I recommend trying to use it within 2-3 months to receive its vitality.

STEAM INHALATION

Steam inhalation is used specifically for the respiratory system and can be effectively applied to support the expectorating properties of essential oils. Boyd and Sheppard (1968) report that steam inhalation can affect the output and composition of respiratory tract fluid. They also point out that low dilutions of aromatics for short periods of time are most effective. Longer exposure times can reduce the efficacy of steam inhalations so short duration and low concentration are the keys to optimal results.

Steam inhalations are indicated for:

• Congestion in upper respiratory tract (cold or flu)
• Sinus infection (sinusitis)
• Dry nasal cavity

How to Make a Steam Inhalation:

Bring 4 cups of water to boil, reduce heat, and let water cool for 5 to 10 minutes. Pour water into a glass bowl and place on a table so the individual can sit or stand over the bowl. Add 2 to 5 drops of essential oil or synergy. Inhale vapors for 3 to 5 minutes. A towel can be placed over the head to increase the concentration of inhalation. Inhalations can be used 2 or 3 times a day in the treatment of specific respiratory disorders.

Safety Note: Keep eyes closed to avoid irritation. Avoid mucus membrane irritating essential oils.

Best Essential Oils to use for Steam Inhalation

• Cypress
• Eucalyptus globulus
• Frankincense
• Laurel
• Lemon
• Peppermint (only 1 drop)
• Rosemary ct. cineole or camphor
• Tea tree

Therapeutic dilution recommendation:
A low concentration of 2 to 5 drops of essential oil or a synergy in approximately 4 cups of steaming hot water is sufficient.

AROMATIC SPRITZERS

Aromatic spritzers, also known as room sprays or linen sprays, have become popular for their ability to freshen and cleanse the air and uplift, relax, or energize those exposed to their aromas. In addition, aromatic spritzers can reduce unwanted or unpleasant odors in the air or “scent” clothing, bed linens, and fabric on furniture.

In general, aromatic spritzers are useful for:

• Room and air freshener
• Body sprays
• Reducing undesirable odors in the air
• To eliminate or preventing bed bugs
• To soothe a variety of emotional states
• Linen sprays

Ingredients for Aromatic Spritzers

The basic ingredients of aromatic spritzers are distilled water and essential oils. You can also replace water with hydrosol or with a combination of hydrosols. If using water, I recommend using distilled water when possible and affordable. If not, spring or tap water is fine, too. However, with spring or tap water, I recommend boiling the water first to remove any potential contamination. Be sure to bring it to a boil and let it boil for 1-3 minutes.

Essential Oil Dilution Rate for Aromatic Spritzers

I recommend a 1-3% dilution for a general room spray.

When making an aromatic spritzer or linen spray, do you have to use an emulsifier or dispersing agent? Should you use a preservative? Let’s look at these ingredients and when and why you might consider using them.

What is an emulsifier?

An emulsifier is used for making creams, lotions, and hair conditioners. The emulsifier helps combine two immiscible ingredients, e.g., the oil (lipid) phase with the water phase. Common emulsifiers include emulsifying wax, Olivem 1000, or Xyliance.

What is a solubilizer?

A solubilizer is a type of surfactant that helps emulsify essential oils into water. It can be used to create aromatic spritzers, gels, and toners. The main difference between an emulsifier and a solubilizer is the particle size of the ingredient needing to be dispersed. In the case of essential oils, we are talking about very small particle sizes.

Common Solubilizers

• Solubol
INCI: Vegetable Glycerin, Coconut Extract, Soy Lecithin, Maltodextrin (a food additive derived from wheat), Acacia gum (gum Arabic), Vitamins E and C, and Rosemary Extract
US supplier: https://naturesgift.com/product/solubol-nv/

• PlantaMulse Liquid
INCI Name: Sorbitan Laurate (and) Polyglyceryl-4 Laurate (and) Dilauryl Citrate
US supplier: https://www.theherbarie.com/PlantaMulse-Liquid.html

• PEG Free Solubilizer
INCI: Polyglyceryl-4 Caprylate, Decyl Glucoside, Sodium Lauroyl, Glutamate, Diglycerin, Aqua
US supplier: https://essentialwholesale.com/peg-free-solubilizer

• Symbio®Solv Clear Plus
INCI: Caprylyl/Capryl Glucoside; Aqua; Sodium Cocoyl Glutamate; Glyceryl Caprylate; Citric Acid; Polyglyceryl-6 Oleate; Sodium Surfactin
UK supplier: https://www.thesoapkitchen.co.uk/symbiorsolv-clear-plus
Or https://www.bayhousearomatics.com/solubiliser-clear-plus-symbiosolv.html

• Solubilizer (Sodium Sunflowerseedate)
US supplier: https://www.edenbotanicals.com/products/specialty-extracts-antioxidants/solubilizer-sodium-sunflowerseedate

NOTE: If you choose to use a solubilizer, be sure to read the instructions from the supplier. The instructions should include dilution recommendations for the solubilizer. Typically, the essential oils and solubilizer are mixed together prior to combining with water.

What about alcohol?

Another variation to combine essential oils into water is to use 190-proof grain alcohol. To solubilize essential oils into water using 190-proof alcohol:

1. Use at least 25-30% alcohol as a part of your formulation
2. Combine essential oils with alcohol first. Let stand covered for 1-3 hours.
3. Then, add 70-75% distilled water or hydrosol.
4. Stir or shake until well combined.
5. Fill bottles, cap, and label with name and ingredients.

This makes for a room spray with a great shelf life of up to 12 months. The benefit of using 70% alcohol is that essential oils are soluble in the alcohol, and no solubilizer would be needed.

Can I use witch hazel hydrosol?

The answer to whether you can use witch hazel hydrosol in a spritzer with essential oils is both yes and no. If you don’t mind shaking the spritzer before each use, then using witch hazel hydrosol is a viable option. However, if you’re looking to fully dissolve the essential oils into the water, witch hazel hydrosol may not be the best choice.

Witch hazel hydrosol typically contains around 14-15% alcohol, which is not sufficient to solubilize essential oils in water. It’s important to note that some witch hazel hydrosols do not contain any alcohol at all, so it’s crucial to check with your supplier to determine the alcohol content of the product you’re using.

If you decide to use witch hazel hydrosol in your spritzer, keep in mind that you’ll need to shake the bottle before each use to ensure that the essential oils are evenly dispersed throughout the mixture. This is because the oils will naturally separate from the water over time.

Do I need to use a preservative?

When creating a product for resale, it’s advisable to consider adding a preservative to your spritzer, as water-based products are susceptible to the growth of mold and bacteria. While preservatives are beneficial for maintaining the integrity and safety of retail products, they are not essential for spritzers intended for personal use at home. Including preservatives will also increase the overall cost of producing the spritzer.

If you choose not to use a preservative in your homemade spritzer, there are a few important steps you can take to minimize the risk of contamination. First, always use distilled water instead of tap water, as distilled water is free from impurities and microorganisms that could contribute to the growth of mold or bacteria. Second, ensure that you use the spritzer within 3 months of making it. This relatively short shelf life helps to prevent the development of any unwanted microorganisms that could potentially harm your skin or compromise the quality of the product.

By following these guidelines and maintaining proper hygiene during the production process, you can create a safe and effective spritzer for personal use without the added expense of preservatives.

Note: Potential Preservatives to use include Leucidal, Geogard Ultra^TM, OptiphenTM bsb-w preservative, Geogard ECT^TM, or Euxyl™ k 903. If you are going to use a preservative, please read the supplier information on pH requirements, dilution rate, and how to combine it with the product.

Shelf Life of Aromatic Spritzers

• If made with distilled water only, it will last 1–3 months when stored in a cool place. To ensure the vitality of the aroma, we recommend using this type of aromatic spritzer within a month.
• If made with alcohol, store for 6–12 months. If possible, we recommend using aromatic spritzers within six months to ensure the vitality of the aroma.
• If made using a preservative, the spritzer could last up to and over 1 year. However, to enjoy the vitality of the aroma, I recommend using it within six months.

General Dilutions for Aromatic Spritzers

How to formulate an Aromatic Spritzer

This is for a 2 fl. oz. (60ml) aromatic spritzer.
2-ounce Boston round holds: 60ml / 53gm water
2.5% dilution = 30 – 46 drops

My intention/goal: To create an antimicrobial room spray
My focus: Physical (reduce microbes in the air)
My approach: Therapeutic actions

1. Select 3-5 essential oils to work with based on client consultation and goals of treatment or product.

2. Combine essential oils (and solubilizer, if using) into the bottle.
If using PET plastic, combine essential oils in a small glass beaker first, then add in to the PET bottle after distilled water. Then, move to step 5.
3. For Glass bottles: Gently shake to combine essential oils.
4. For Glass bottles: Fill the bottle with distilled water.
5. Close the bottle and shake gently.
6. Label with name and ingredients.
7. Your aromatic spritzer is now ready for use.

Recipes

Forest Bathing Spray

2 fl oz spray bottle
3% essential oil dilution: 36-54 drops

• 2 fl oz distilled water
• Solubilizer, if using (as per instructions)
• Core: 15 drops Scots Pine (Pinus sylvestris)
• Enhancer: 15 drops Black Spruce (Picea mariana)
• Harmonizer: 10 drops Balsam Fir (Abies balsamea)

DIRECTIONS

1. Combine essential oils (and solubilizer) into the bottle.
2. Gently shake to combine essential oils.
3. Fill the bottle with distilled water.
4. Close the bottle and shake gently.
5. Your aromatic spritzer is now ready for use.
6. Spray in the room to enjoy the aroma!

Soothe Anxiety Away Spray with 190-proof alcohol

2 fl oz spray bottle
2% essential oil dilution 24-36 drops
25% 190-proof cane alcohol

• 1.5 fl oz lavender hydrosol (or distilled water)
• 0.5 fl oz 190-proof cane alcohol
• Core: 15 drops Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
• Enhancer: 10 drops Frankincense (Boswellia sacra)
• Harmonizer: 6 drops Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin)

DIRECTIONS

1. Combine the essential oils and alcohol into the bottle.
2. Gently shake to combine.
3. Let essential oils and alcohol sit together for 1-4 hours.
4. After 1-4 hours, fill the bottle with distilled water.
5. Close the bottle, and shake gently.
6. Your aromatic spritzer is now ready for use.
7. Spray in the room and enjoy the aroma!

Sleep Linen Spray

2 fl oz spray bottle
2% essential oil dilution 24-36 drops

• 2 fl oz distilled water
• Solubilizer, if using (as per instructions)
• Core: 12 drops Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
• Enhancer: 8 drops Clary sage (Salvia sclarea)
• Harmonizer: 10 drops Sweet orange (Citrus sinensis) or Mandarin (Citrus reticulata)

DIRECTIONS

1. Combine essential oils (and solubilizer) into the bottle.
2. Gently shake to combine essential oils.
3. Fill the bottle with water.
4. Close the bottle, and shake gently.
5. Your aromatic spritzer is now ready for use.

To support a healthy night’s sleep, consider misting around your bed, under your pillow, on top of your blankets, or in the air around your bed. Enjoy the relaxing, calming aroma as you fall asleep!

Baths have been employed for their health benefits since ancient times. The earliest writings regarding the therapeutic benefits of bathing are attributed to the Indian Vedas, which date from approximately 1500 BC. The Romans are best known for utilizing baths extensively for their health benefits, creating elaborate bathhouses for people to visit. Hippocrates, the famed Greek physician, employed ‘hydrotherapy’ with aromatic oils and deemed baths essential to good health. The history of medicinal baths is extensive, and it would appear that they are experiencing a renaissance in the modern world due to their benefits in relieving stress and supporting emotional and physical well-being.

Watch About Baths with Jade

Full-Body Baths

A full-body bath is the complete immersion of the body in a fluid or in a vaporous medium such as steam. The effects of a full-body bath will vary according to the temperature of the water and the duration of time the individual will be immersed. The average time for a full-body hot bath (90°-105° F / 32° C – 40° C) is twenty minutes or less.

In general, aromatherapy full-body baths are useful to:

• Reduce stress/anxiety
• Alleviate muscular aches, pains, and tension
• Soothe mental or physical fatigue
• Stimulate circulation
• Enhance lymph circulation
• Reduce pain and stiffness
• Improve tone and health of skin
• Aid detoxification
• PLUS the benefits of the essential oils, hydrosols, or salts used

Essential Oils in the Bath

Therapeutic dilution recommendation

The number of drops of essential oil to place into a bath will depend upon the essential oil(s) being utilized. On average, use 5 to 10 drops of essential oil in a full-body bath. However, there are some oils, such as jasmine, when 1 to 2 drops would be sufficient, and other oils, like lavender, when 10 to 15 drops would be fine. Avoid essential oils that are dermal irritants, dermal sensitizers, and mucus membrane irritants in baths. Examples of essential oils to AVOID in the bath include cinnamon bark, citronella, lemongrass, thyme ct. thymol, oregano, and winter savory.

How to add essential oils into bath water

To avoid potential skin irritation, it is useful to combine essential oils with a dispersant prior to adding them to the bathwater.

Dispersants include:

1. 1. A small amount of liquid castile soap: combine essential oils with 1 Tablespoon of liquid soap in a small bowl, gently stir together, then add to bath water.
   2. A small amount of carrier oil, with or without salt (caution: use of carrier oil can make the tub slippery!): Combine essential oils with 1 Tablespoon of carrier oil in a small bowl, gently stir together, and then add to bath water.
   3. Solubilizer: combine essential oils with a solubilizer, then add to bath water.

Hydrosols in the Bath

Another great way to enjoy an aromatic bath is to use hydrosols. You can either use just hydrosols or add hydrosols + essential oils. For babies and young children, the use of hydrosols without essential oils is much preferred.

1. • For babies up to six months, add 1 teaspoon of chosen hydrosol to an infant bathtub or 2 teaspoons for an adult tub filled to baby depth.
   • For children up to twelve years of age, add 1 teaspoon of hydrosol per year of age, up to a maximum of 8 teaspoons.
   • Adults can use from 30 to 250 milliliters (approximately 1 to 8 ounces per tub).

How to prepare a bath:

The water should be at the desired temperature, and the essential oils or hydrosols should be added to the bath once the individual is in the bath. Placing essential oils in the bath prior to immersion can lose some of the desired effects, as well as increase the chance of irritation to the mucus membranes of the vaginal/rectal area. Once in the bath, add the appropriate essential oil/synergy drops (that have been combined with a dispersant) and agitate the water to disperse the concentration throughout the bathwater. Essential oils are lipophilic and hydrophobic, so most often, the essential oils will quickly seek to be absorbed by the skin.

Safety Note:If an individual gets red blotches or irritation on the skin while bathing, this means
that too much essential oil was added to the bath, a dispersant should have been used, or the client has experienced an idiosyncratic or allergic reaction. Should irritation occur, recommend a light cream or aloe vera gel without essential oils; the irritation should dissipate within an hour.

Simple Aromatic Bath Recipe: To support a good night’s sleep

1. • 5 drops Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
   • 3 drops Frankincense (Boswellia sp.)
   • 2 drops Tangerine/Mandarin (Citrus reticulata)
   • 1 spoonful (Tbsp.) Sweet almond oil or other carrier oil

To make: Combine essential oils and carrier oil in a small glass beaker or bowl. Gently stir together with a glass or metal stirring rod. Add to bath water once you are in the bath. Take a few deep breaths to enjoy the initial aroma, relax, and enjoy the bath. Safety note: the use of carrier oil can make the bathtub a bit slippery; use caution when getting out of the tub.

Aromatic baths with Epsom salts or sea salts

Epsom and sea salt baths are highly effective in aiding and supporting the body in detoxing, physically and emotionally. Bathing salts with essential oils can also relieve anxiety, reduce the impact of stress on the body and mind, support a healthy night’s sleep, and uplift the spirits.

Epsom salts (magnesium sulfate) help eliminate waste material from the skin and reduce muscular aches and pains by removing uric acid build-up. Magnesium is also absorbed by the skin, further reducing tension and inflammation in the body. Magnesium salt baths can relieve muscle cramps, stiffness in joints, back pain, and achy, overworked legs and feet.

The use of salts in a bath can support and enhance the body’s immune response by stimulating lymph and blood circulation. Sea salt or Epsom salt baths can also be incredibly useful for energetic/emotional cleansing.

Essential Oil Dilution Rate for Aromatic Bathing Salts
When it comes to making bathing salts, I tend to recommend 5-15 drops of essential oils per cup of salt rather than thinking in terms of dilution rate. The total number of drops can vary depending on the essential oil or essential oils selected.

How to formulate bathing salts

This is for a 16oz jar of bathing salts.

My intention/goal: To create a relaxing, anxiety-reducing bathing salt
My focus: Emotions/Psyche
My approach: Aromatic palette (floral, spice, herbaceous, citrus)

1. Measure (and weigh, if desired) salt in 16oz jar
Sea salt: 1 ½ cups / 415g

2. Select 3-5 essential oils to work with based upon client consultation and goals of treatment or product. Core/Enhance/Harmonize

3. Measure (and weigh, if desired) 1 Tablespoon of Jojoba (approx. 12g) or other carrier oil
4. Using a small (10ml) glass beaker or bowl, add drops of each essential oil to the beaker or bowl, then add into carrier oil.
5. Pour carrier oil + essential oil mix into salts. Stir ingredients until well combined.
6. Once combined, scoop the salts into a clean glass or PET plastic jar.
7. Label the jar with a name and list all ingredients.
8. The bathing salts are now ready for use.

How to use: Add ½ cup to the bath water either just before getting into it or once in the bath. This way, you don’t miss out on the aroma!

Shelf life:

Bathing salts last approximately 6-12 months. I recommend using them within 3 months to enjoy their vitality.

Foot and Hand Baths

A hand or foot bath means the complete or partial immersion of only the hands or feet in the water. Green comments that “the sole of the foot is one of the most important areas in the body, having a direct connection with the nerve centers that control the circulation of the pelvic and abdominal viscera.” Foot and hand baths can be used as an aspect of reflexology or bodywork treatment or simply for self-care.

In general, aromatherapy foot and hand baths are useful for:

1. • Stress/Anxiety
   • Poor circulation
   • Low energy
   • Foot or hand aches and pains
   • Arthritis and rheumatism (subacute phase)
   • Nail and toe fungal infections
   • Comfort therapy

How to make a Foot/Hand Bath:

Fill a basin with water at the desired temperature and add in chosen essential oils and/or hydrosols. A dispersant such as a carrier oil or liquid castile soap may be used but is not necessary for a hand or foot bath. Place feet or hands in the basin. Let feet or hands soak for 5 to 10 minutes. Add 1/2 cup of Epsom or sea salts for enhanced benefits.
Therapeutic dilution recommendation:

1. • 5 to 7 drops of essential oil in a basin of warm/hot water
   • 1 to 3 tablespoons of chosen hydrosol
   • Can combine essential oils with 1 Tbsp. carrier oil or unscented liquid soap prior to adding into water

BASIC FACIAL SKINCARE PROGRAM:
Cleanse, Tone, Moisturize.
1x-2x a week exfoliate and apply the mask if needed for skin type

Cleansers

About Cleanser

Cleansers help to remove dead cells, grime, stale make-up, bacteria, and excess sebum. When excess sebum is combined with grime and dead skin cells, it blocks the pores; bacteria multiply underneath and create a spot or a full case of acne.

What’s the problem with using ordinary soap?

Ordinary soap can upset the skin’s natural acid balance and strip it of oil. Regular soap can also dehydrate the skin, meaning it takes water away, causing oil glands to overproduce in order to compensate for the loss of water and oil on the skin’s surface. This dehydration can prevent the excess oil from flowing to the skin’s surface, causing blackheads and potential pimples on oily skin.

If the skin is dry and lacking in oil, it becomes even drier with soap use because there is less oil, to begin with. This also promotes aging. Since we need some oil on the skin to lubricate and protect us from bacteria, it is wise to use a facial cleanser. According to Howard, “Anything with a high pH like soap will literally strip the barrier lipids from our skin.”

Essential Oil Dilution Rate for Cleansers

• For facial cleansers, I recommend a 0.5-1.0% dilution. For acne-prone skin, you could go up to 1.5-2%.
• Note: If using or making an oil cleanser, I tend to recommend not using essential oils as part of the formulation. Use the therapeutics of essential oils in the facial cream or facial oil.
• For body cleansers, I recommend a 1.0-2.0% dilution.

Facial Cleansers

There is a wide range of facial cleansers available on the market, each catering to different skin types and preferences. These include simple natural liquid soaps, cream cleansers, cleansing milk, and cleansing grains.

The most effective cleansers are lipid-based, emollient, and able to cleanse the skin while minimizing barrier disruption. They suggest using lotions, gels, and creams that contain essential oils. Other natural ingredients to consider are plain live yogurt, olive oil, jojoba oil, finely ground oatmeal, or avocado oil.

Another gentle method of cleansing the face is to use mild exfoliants like oats and ground herbs such as lavender. Rosemary Gladstar’s famous Miracle Grain Cleansing recipe, provided below, is a fantastic option that gently exfoliates while cleansing the skin.

Lastly, liquid castile soap is a simple ingredient that can be used to create a facial cleanser, particularly for acne-prone skin. When formulating with liquid castile soap, it is highly recommended to add a carrier oil or a humectant like honey to support the skin’s health and maintain its moisture balance.

How often should you cleanse the face?

It is recommended to cleanse the face at least twice a day, in the morning and evening.

How to cleanse the face

Apply cleanser to face, gently massage onto the skin, then remove with warm water. You can use a moist hand towel to remove the cleaner, especially heavy cleansers. Once the cleanser has been removed, gently splash the skin with warm water and then a quick splash of cool water. Follow with toner, then facial oil or cream.

Cleansing Miracle Grains Recipe for Facial Cleansing

This is Rosemary Gladstar’s Famous Cleansing Grain recipe! It can be used instead of soap for the face.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup oats, finely ground
• 1 cup white clay
• 1/8 cup almonds, finely ground (can replace with other gentle exfoliants)
• 1/8 cup lavender flowers and rose petals, finely ground

To make:

1. Combine all the ingredients in a bowl and mix well.
2. Store the cleansing grains in a glass or PET container. Be sure to label jar with ingredients.

To use: Combine 1–2 teaspoons of the cleansing grains with enough water to make a paste. Gently massage onto your face. Rinse off with warm water. Follow with a facial toner and face cream or oil.

Oil Facial Cleanser

The popularity of oil cleansing is on the rise! Oil cleansing of the face protects the lipid matrix while effectively cleansing the skin. It’s also super easy and effective!

To make an oil cleanser, fill a 2-ounce bottle with a flip top or dropper lid with:

• 2 fluid ounces of Olive oil or Calendula infused Olive Oil or even Jojoba oil
• OR other similar carrier oils (e.g., sweet almond, apricot kernel, etc.)

How to use an oil facial cleanser:

1. Begin with the skin when it is dry (no water on the skin).
2. Apply a palmful of carrier oil to the face and gently massage the skin for a few seconds or more as needed. If the skin has make-up, it may take a minute for the oil to do its thing.
3. Gently remove with a warm, damp cloth. Gently wipe the oil off the skin.
4. Rinse the face with warm water, pat dry with a cloth, and then apply moisturizer or facial oil.

Acne-prone Facial Cleanser

Ingredients for Acne-prone Facial Cleanser

4 oz (120ml) bottle with flip top

• 60ml Liquid castile soap (60g)
• 2 Tablespoons Witch hazel hydrosol (33g)
• 1 Tablespoon Neroli or German chamomile hydrosol (14.4g)
• 1 Tablespoon Honey (24.75g)

Essential Oil Synergy

• 20 drops (0.46g) Cypress (Cupressus sempervirens)
• 12 drops (0.32g) Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile)
• 14 drops (0.69g) Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia)

To make:

1. Measure (and weigh, if desired) all ingredients (except essential oils).
2. Combine liquid ingredients into a glass measuring cup or bowl.
3. Using a whisk or fork, gently stir until all ingredients are well combined.
4. Measure (and weigh, if desired) each essential oil into the same glass beaker. If weighing, be sure to tare between each essential oil. Gently swivel the beaker to combine essential oils.
5. Add essential oil synergy into the cleanser. Stir with a whisk or fork until well combined.
6. Using a funnel, pour cleanser into the bottle. Label with ingredients.
7. The facial cleanser is now ready for use!

Body Cleansers

Unscented liquid soap with essential oils added can be an ideal body cleanser for most people. A salt or sugar scrub is another form of cleansing the skin.

Energizing Body Cleanser

This is for an 8 oz PET bottle with a flip top.

Recipe:
My intention/goal: To create a relaxing yet energizing body cleanser
My focus: Relaxing yet Energizing
My approach: Aromatic Palette

Formulate the cleanser base: 240ml

• 120ml Liquid Castille Soap
• 90ml Lavender hydrosol
• 30ml Honey or Rose Glycerite (or simply glycerin)

Essential Oil Synergy
2.0% dilution of Essential Oils (96 – 144 drops)

To make:

1. Measure (and weigh, if desired) all ingredients (except essential oils).
2. Combine liquid ingredients into a glass measuring cup or bowl.
3. Using a whisk or fork, gently stir until all ingredients are well combined.
4. Measure (and weigh, if desired) each essential oil into the same glass beaker. Gently swivel the beaker to combine essential oils.
5. Add essential oil synergy into the cleanser. Stir with a whisk or fork until well combined.
6. Using a funnel, pour cleanser into the bottle. Label with ingredients.
7. The body cleanser is now ready for use!

Shelf life:

A cleanser will be good for approximately 12 months. I recommend trying to use it within 6 months to receive its vitality.

Foaming hand soap with honey recipe

You’ll need a foamer bottle.

To make honey-foaming hand cleanser

• 2 tablespoons Castile soap
• 1 tablespoon local honey
• 2 tablespoons hydrosol of your choice or add distilled water
• 12-14 drops Fragonia essential oil (can replace with Laurel, lemon, lavender, tea tree, etc.

Combine all ingredients in a glass measuring cup and gently stir until well combined. Pour in the bottle, place the foamer cap on, and it’s ready for use.

See Reel on Instagram to see how I made this foaming hand cleanser!
https://www.instagram.com/reel/ClTaGX5olef/

About Toners

A toner helps to remove any soapy film or traces of cleanser, makeup, or dirt. Toners can also gently stimulate surface circulation and help restore the skin’s acid balance (healthy skin should be slightly acidic to protect from bacteria). The primary purpose of toning is to gently prepare the skin to accept nourishing, moisturizing, regenerating, activating, or boosting skin products. A toner can be used first thing in the morning and the evening after cleansing. Toners are followed by the application of a skin moisturizing cream.

The general formula for toners is:

• Hydrosols (94-100%)
• Glycerites, Glycerin, Honey (0-5%)
• Preservative (1%), if using

NOTE: I don’t personally recommend using essential oils in toners. Their therapeutic benefits are best in other types of products, such as facial oils or creams.

Hydrosols as Toners

Hydrosols are a fantastic choice for toners, as they can be used individually or combined to create custom blends tailored to specific skin types. For instance, a mixture of Roman chamomile, Lavender, and Witch hazel works wonders for oily skin, helping to balance sebum production and minimize the appearance of pores. Alternatively, a combination of Rose, Orange flower, and Lavender hydrosols is perfect for mature skin, as it helps to nourish and hydrate the skin. The versatility of hydrosols makes them an essential part of any skincare routine, allowing you to create personalized toners that cater to your unique skin concerns.

Other ingredients for toners include: Aloe vera gel, apple cider vinegar (balances pH)

Toner for Acne-prone skin

This is for a 4 fl. oz. toner.

My intention/goal: To create an astringent facial toner for acne-prone skin
My focus: The Skin
My approach: Therapeutics
Product size: 4 fl. oz.

1. Select 1 – 3 hydrosols based on the goals of the toner.

NOTE: With hydrosols as toners, it is fine not to weigh ingredients. You can measure ingredients using millimeters or fluid ounces.

2. Measure (and weigh, if desired) each hydrosol.
3. Combine hydrosols in a measuring cup. Stir to combine hydrosols.
4. Using a funnel, pour the toner into the final bottle.
5. Label the bottle with the name and list all ingredients.
6. The toner is now ready for use.

How to use
Toners can be applied by using a cotton ball and gently wiping the face.

Do I need to use a preservative?
When incorporating nutrient-rich additives and humectants like honey, aloe vera gel, or glycerin into your formulation, it becomes important to consider the inclusion of a preservative system. These ingredients, while beneficial, can inadvertently support the growth of microorganisms, potentially compromising the stability and safety of your product.

To mitigate this risk, you may want to explore the use of natural preservatives, such as those containing potassium sorbate or sorbic acid. These compounds have been shown to effectively inhibit microbial growth, ensuring that your formulation remains safe and stable throughout its intended shelf life.

Hydrating Spritzers

Hydrosols can also be used as hydrating spritzers prior to applying a cream or facial oil. To make a hydrating spritzer, you can use either a single hydrosol or a combination of hydrosols. You can also add other ingredients, such as aloe vera gel, apple cider vinegar (which balances pH), glycerin and herbal glycerites.

How to formulate a hydrating spritzer

This is for a 4 fl. oz. spray bottle

My intention/goal: To create a beautiful hydrating spritzer
My focus: The Skin
My approach: Therapeutics

1. Select ingredients to use in hydrating spritzer

2. Measure (and weigh) each ingredient in sterilized glass beakers.
3. Combine ingredients in a measuring cup. Stir with a whisk until well combined.
4. Using a sterilized funnel, pour the formulation into the final bottle and place the spritzer cap on.
5. Label the bottle with the name and list all ingredients.
6. The spritzer is now ready for use.

How to use
After cleansing the skin, spray facial skin with the hydrating spritzer, then immediately apply cream or facial oil.

Body Oils

Body oils are a blend of carrier oils, herbal oils, and essential oils carefully formulated to address specific needs and conditions. Their versatility lies in the ability to customize the combination of ingredients based on the desired purpose.

Body oils can be used for various applications, depending on the intended goal of the formulation. Some body oils are designed for full-body use, while others target specific areas, such as an abdominal oil, to alleviate menstrual cramps or promote digestive health. For massage therapists and estheticians, body oils are a valuable tool in their practice, providing a nourishing and therapeutic medium for massage treatments.

By selecting the right combination of carrier oils, herbal oils, and essential oils, body oils can be tailored to meet individual needs, offering a range of benefits for the skin, the body, and overall well-being.

Here is a chart for various systems of the body where body oils may be beneficial.

Preventing Transepidermal Water Loss

Carrier oils are known for their excellent protective and emollient properties, which can help improve skin hydration and maintain the skin’s natural barrier. One way they achieve this is by reducing transepidermal water loss (TEWL), a process where water evaporates from the skin’s surface.

It’s important to note that carrier and herbal oils do not contain water themselves, so they don’t directly deliver hydration to the skin. Instead, they work by creating a protective barrier on the skin’s surface, which helps to seal in existing moisture and prevent further water loss.

By incorporating carrier oils into your skincare routine, you can help your skin retain its natural hydration levels and maintain a healthy, supple appearance. This protective barrier also helps to shield the skin from external factors that may cause irritation or dryness.

Essential Oil Dilution Rate for Body Oil

For general body care oil for an adult, I recommend a 2-5% dilution. You can go up to 10-15+% for acute conditions such as muscular aches and pains, arthritis, or menstrual cramps.

General Formulation Framework for Body Oils and Facial Oils

• 95 – 98% Carrier Oils, includes herbal oils
• 5-1% Antioxidant, if using polyunsaturated fatty acid-rich carrier oils
• 1-5% Essential Oils

How to formulate a body oil

This is for a 2 fl. oz. (60ml) body oil

My intention/goal: To create a warming and inspiring body oil for use after showering.
My focus: Emotions/Psyche while nourishing skin with jojoba oil
My approach: Aromatic palette (spice and floral)
Size of product: 2 fl. oz.
Dilution rate: 2.5%

1. Select 3-5 essential oils to work with based upon client consultation and goals of treatment or product. Core/Enhance/Harmonize

2. Select carrier oil or oils (includes herbal oils)

3. Place drops of each essential oil into a glass bottle. If using PET plastic, place drops of essential oils into a small glass beaker.
4. For glass bottles: Close the lid and gently swivel the bottle to combine essential oils. If you are using a PET plastic bottle to make the formulation, you will add the carrier oil or oils to the beaker with the essential oils. Stir until well combined, then add the formulation to the PET bottle. Proceed to Step 7.
5. For glass bottles: Add carrier oil or oils into the bottle with the essential oils.
6. Place the cap back onto the bottle and shake vigorously for 2-3 minutes.
7. Take the lid off and smell it to ensure it is what you would like it to be. Add additional drops of essential oil if needed. Make sure to keep notes on any adjustments you make.
8. Label the bottle with the name and list all ingredients.
9. The body oil is now ready for use.

Another option for formulating is the table below:

Shelf life:

An oil-based blend will last approximately 6-12 months or more. I recommend using it within 3-6 months to enjoy its vitality.

Facial Oils

Facial oils, much like body oils, are a blend of carrier oils, herbal oils, and essential oils. However, the key difference between facial and body oils lies in the choice of carrier oils. Facial oils often feature carrier oils that are rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are particularly beneficial for the delicate skin on the face.

Some of the most common carrier oils used in facial oil formulations include borage, evening primrose, pomegranate seed, raspberry seed, and rosehip seed. These oils are carefully selected for their unique properties and their ability to nourish, protect, and rejuvenate the skin.

By incorporating these polyunsaturated fatty acid-rich carrier oils, facial oils can effectively address a variety of skin concerns, such as dryness, aging, and uneven skin tone. The combination of these oils with the right essential oils can create a powerful and targeted treatment for the face, promoting a healthy, radiant complexion.

Facial oils have the following therapeutic benefits for the facial skin:

• Support and enhance the integrity and health of the skin
• Soothe dry skin
• Soften skin (via emollient action)
• Prevent dryness by reducing transepidermal water loss
• Influence and slow aging of skin
• Scar reduction & improve appearance
• Balance sebum production
• Protect the skin’s lipid matrix
• Improve tone of skin
• Improve hydration of the skin

The selection of essential oils can address specific skin conditions as well as emotional well-being. Well-selected essential oils can relieve stress and/or anxiety, improve self-image, increase self-confidence, and reduce the impact of stress on the skin.

Essential Oil Dilution Rate for Facial Oils

I recommend a 1-2% dilution for facial oils for adolescents and adults alike. For children under the age of 7, facial oils are rarely indicated. However, if a facial oil is desired for this age group, I would recommend a 0.5-1% dilution.

How to formulate a facial oil

This is for a 1 fl. oz. (30ml) facial oil

My intention/goal: To formulate a facial oil to reduce inflammation, support cellular regeneraton, and reduce stress
My focus: Holistic (physical, emotional)
My approach: System affinities and Therapeutic actions
Size of product: 1 fl. oz.
Dilution rate: 2%

1. Select 3-5 essential oils to work with based upon client consultation and goals of treatment or product. Core/Enhance/Harmonize

2. Select carrier oil or oils (includes herbal oils)

3. Place drops of each essential oil into a glass bottle. If using PET plastic, place drops of essential oils into a small glass beaker.
4. For glass bottles: Close the lid and gently swivel the bottle to combine essential oils. If you are using a PET plastic bottle to make the formulation, you will add carrier oil into the beaker with essential oils, stir until well combined, then add the formulation into the PET bottle. Proceed to Step 7.
5. For glass bottles: Add carrier oil or oils into the bottle with the essential oils.
6. Place the cap back onto the bottle and shake vigorously for 2-3 minutes.
7. Take the lid off and smell it to ensure it is what you would like it to be. Add additional drops of essential oil if needed. Make sure to keep notes on any adjustments you make.
8. Label the bottle with the name and list all ingredients.
9. The facial oil is now ready for use.

Shelf life:

An oil-based blend will last approximately 6-12 months or more. I recommend using it within 3-6 months to enjoy its vitality.

Watch: How to make body and facial oils