{"id":258,"date":"2018-02-11T10:42:20","date_gmt":"2018-02-11T10:42:20","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/jeremywoodart.com\/site\/?page_id=258"},"modified":"2018-08-30T21:26:17","modified_gmt":"2018-08-30T11:26:17","slug":"learn","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/goldcoast-it.net\/site\/botanicals\/learn\/","title":{"rendered":"Blending"},"content":{"rendered":"

Tips for Mixing Essential Oils<\/strong><\/h2>\n

\"\"Of course everyone has different likes and dislikes when it comes to aromas of essential oils.\u00a0 Not every individual will enjoy the scent of every recipe on this page. For this reason, I urge you to use your nose diligently.\u00a0 Before mixing two or more different oils together, test a drop of each oil on a cotton swab so you can get an idea of what the finished product is going to smell like.<\/p>\n

When mixing essential oils, take it slow.\u00a0 Don\u2019t just throw all of the ingredients together and call it done.\u00a0 Instead, mix them together a little bit at a time.\u00a0 Allow your senses to sample the blend as it evolves until you find the perfect combination.\u00a0 Just remember to keep track of how many drops of each oil you used and the order in which you added them so you can replicate the recipe in the future.<\/p>\n

Always be gentle with your mixtures.\u00a0 Forceful motion such as vigorous shaking or stirring can easily damage the delicate organic compounds which give your essential oils their wonderful therapeutic aromas.\u00a0 Also, avoid exposing your blends to excessive heat or light as this will often change the chemical composition of the oils or cause them to oxidize and spoil faster.<\/p>\n

Remember to leave a little space in the top of the\u00a0storage bottle\u00a0when you\u2019ve finished mixing your oil blends.\u00a0 This will allow them to breathe.<\/p>\n

When handling essential oils,\u00a0ceramic\u00a0or\u00a0glass tools\u00a0are highly recommended. Avoid contact with metals entirely.<\/p>\n

Carrier Oils<\/strong><\/h2>\n

\"\"While there are\u00a0many options available, here are five of the most popular carriers with brief descriptions of each oil and their associated health benefits.<\/p>\n

Sweet Almond<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 adds a rich nutty aroma to any blend.\u00a0\u00a0Sweet almond oil\u00a0is high in\u00a0oleic acid\u00a0which may help to improve blood pressure and cholesterol levels.<\/p>\n

Coconut (Cold-pressed)<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 imparts a sweet tropical note to massage oils.\u00a0 Coconut oil is the richest natural source of\u00a0lauric acid, and is considered to be one of the\u00a0best oils for promoting healthy skin\u00a0and\u00a0hair.<\/p>\n

Grapeseed<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 has very little scent.\u00a0\u00a0Grapeseed oil\u00a0dries faster than many other plant oils due to its high concentration of\u00a0linoleic acid.<\/p>\n

Jojoba<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 offers a very slight nutty aroma.\u00a0\u00a0Jojoba oil\u00a0oxidizes slowly, thus it has a much longer shelf-life than many other plant oils.\u00a0 Also, because it is similar in chemical composition to the oils naturally present in human skin, jojoba oil absorbs quickly and leaves behind very little residue.<\/p>\n

Olive<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 possesses a rich, verdant aroma.\u00a0 Olive oil is high in oleic acid which can improve blood pressure and cholesterol levels.<\/p>\n

Also, note that the average ratios of essential oils to carrier are: 25 \u2013 30 total drops per 15mL for therapeutic blends and 25 \u2013 30 total drops per 60mL for full body massage blends.<\/p>\n

Categories of Essential Oils<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Akin to a musical composition, professional perfumers have separated scents into three distinct classes: top notes, middle notes, and base notes. These scent notes are determined by the essential oil\u2019s volatility; lighter molecules evaporate quickly while heavier ones take longer to dissipate. Each note can influence the perception of the other notes. To create a well-rounded and balanced fragrance, you should aim for a combination of all three notes.<\/p>\n

Top note\u00a0\u2013 volatile oils with strong aromas that generally evaporate faster and absorb into skin very quickly.\u00a0 Some examples of top notes are lemon, peppermint, eucalyptus, and basil oils.<\/p>\n

Middle<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 heavy, viscous, less aromatic oils with more subtle, longer-lasting fragrance such as marjoram, sage, anise seed, and thyme oils.<\/p>\n

Base<\/strong>\u00a0\u2013 harmonizing agents that bring the blend together; usually with a lingering aroma such as amyris, sandalwood, frankincense, and myrrh.<\/p>\n

The oils for each recipe are listed in the order and quantities by which they should be added to your carrier oil, however this is only a starting point.\u00a0 Essential oils can vary greatly depending on a wide range of factors.\u00a0 For this reason, you may wish to experiment with your mixtures in small batches until you get them just right.<\/p>\n

Determining fragrance notes is steeped in subjectivity as well. For instance, some have classed lavender as a top note while others consider it to be more of a middle note. So although it\u2019s good to have a guideline of scent notes (and you can see a full accounting (here<\/a>).<\/p>\n

Grouping Aromas by Type<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Another way to begin mixing and matching different oils is to first group them into aroma categories. Here are some examples:<\/p>\n

    \n
  • Floral\u00a0<\/strong>\u2013 Lavender, geranium, jasmine, vanilla, ylang ylang, rose, neroli<\/li>\n
  • Citrus\u00a0<\/strong>\u2013 Grapefruit, lemon, orange, bergamot, tangerine, lemongrass<\/li>\n
  • Woody\u00a0<\/strong>\u2013 Fir, cedarwood, cypress, sandalwood, juniper, frankincense, myrrh<\/li>\n
  • Earthy\u00a0<\/strong>\u2013 Oakmoss, patchouli, valerian, angelica root, vetiver<\/li>\n
  • Herbaceous\u00a0<\/strong>\u2013 Basil, marjoram, rosemary, clary sage, oregano, thyme, tea tree<\/li>\n
  • Spicy\u00a0<\/strong>\u2013 Clove, nutmeg, cinnamon, cumin, ginger, cardamom, aniseed<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

    Generally, oils within the same category blend well together. Floral oils typically jive with woody, citrus, or spicy scents, while citrus blends nicely with spicy and herbaceous oils. Woody oils usually get along with every fragrance category. Feel free to experiment with your own cross-category blends, you never know what aromas you will discover!<\/p>\n

    Start Small<\/strong><\/h3>\n

    Ready to get blending? When experimenting with new blends, it\u2019s wise to start small. Use only three oils to begin with \u2013 a top note, middle note, and base note. You can always experiment with more complex fragrance combinations once you feel you are getting the hang of it.<\/p>\n

    Use 10 Drops in Total<\/strong><\/h3>\n

    During this highly experimental phase, make your first blend with a total of 10 drops. By using such a small amount, you haven\u2019t wasted too much of your precious oils if you don\u2019t care for the end result. If you hit a winning formula, 10 drops are easy to convert to larger batches later. Be sure to write down the exact amounts you used since a drop off here or there can make a dramatic difference when you attempt to replicate your blend.<\/p>\n

    Try the 30-50-20 Rule<\/strong><\/h3>\n

    With all this about evaporation rates and the lightness and heaviness of various botanical oils, it can be difficult to ascertain what proportions to use when you\u2019re just starting out. A good rule of thumb for beginner blenders is the 30-50-20 rule, which is to prepare your oils by using 30% top note, 50% middle note, and 20% base note. In our three oil experiment using 10 drops, that would translate to three drops top note, five drops middle note, and two drops base note.<\/p>\n

    Massage Oil Precautions<\/strong><\/h2>\n

    Beware of allergies.\u00a0 If you are uncertain,\u00a0always perform an allergy test\u00a0before applying any essential oil blend to large areas of the body.\u00a0 Also, not all allergic reactions are immediate.\u00a0 Wait at least twenty minutes, then check the test site for redness or swelling.<\/p>\n

    In case of allergic reaction, do not rinse with water!\u00a0 The best way to remove oil is to apply a skin-safe liquid dish-washing soap to dry skin where the oil is present.\u00a0 Rub gently for at least 30 seconds or until you are certain that the oil has been removed before rinsing.<\/p>\n

    Many herbal remedies can have a negative impact on pregnancy.\u00a0 The massage oil blends listed below specify if the ingredients are considered safe for use by pregnant women.\u00a0 Regardless of the information provided here, it is strongly recommended that pregnant or breast feeding women consult with a professional physician before using essential oils or other herbal remedies.<\/p>\n

    Most essential oils are not safe for internal use.\u00a0 While many essential oils are extracted from foods, they should never be ingested unless the packaging specifically states that they are safe to use this way.<\/p>\n

    Remember to wear sun protection if you must be exposed to sunlight after applying essential oils to your skin.\u00a0 Many of these blends (especially those containing fruit oils) have the potential to make skin more sensitive to UV damage.<\/p>\n

    Massage Oil\u00a0Recipes<\/strong><\/h2>\n

    \"\"Now that you have the basic technical aspects and precautions associated with oil blending under your belt, it\u2019s time to get creative!<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n

    Warm Spice Blend: mental clarity, uplifting<\/h3>\n

    Cinnamon + Sweet Orange + Cardamom +\u00a0 Coriander Seed<\/p>\n

    Cardamom \u2013\u00a0 3 \u2013 4 drops \u2013 (middle: warm, green, aromatic spice) \u2013 traditionally used in Ayurveda to invigorate the mind and body; also used to ease nervous tension.<\/p>\n

    Sweet Orange \u2013\u00a0 14 \u2013 16 drops \u2013 (top note: sweet, fruity, citrus) \u2013 very cleansing\u00a0 and uplifting aroma.<\/p>\n

    Cinnamon Bark \u2013\u00a0 5 \u2013 6 drops \u2013 (base: warm, dry, herbal spice) \u2013 potent natural stimulant; also antimicrobial and promotes digestive health.<\/p>\n

    Coriander Seed \u2013\u00a0 3 \u2013 4 drops \u2013 (middle: sweet, spicy, woody, slight fruity) \u2013 revitalizing spice stimulates the senses; also aids with digestion and soothes inflammation.<\/p>\n

    Carrier oil \u2013 coconut, almond, jojoba<\/p>\n

    Citrus Flower Blend: emotional well-being, sensuality<\/h3>\n

    Clary Sage + Jasmine + Bergamot +\u00a0 Ylang Ylang +\u00a0 Grapefruit<\/p>\n

    Clary Sage \u2013 2 \u2013 3 drops \u2013 (middle: dry, musky, bittersweet, floral) \u2013 soothes muscle tension; relaxes the mind and naturally elevates mood.<\/p>\n

    Jasmine \u2013 2 \u2013 3 drops \u2013 (middle: warm, rich, deeply floral) \u2013 warms the body and stimulates the senses.<\/p>\n

    Bergamot \u2013 12 \u2013 14 drops \u2013 (top note: fresh, spicy, floral, citrus) \u2013 relieves tension and elevates mood.<\/p>\n

    Vanilla \u2013 4 \u2013 5 drops \u2013 (base: rich, sweet, creamy floral) \u2013 heightens senses and elevates mood<\/p>\n

    Ylang Ylang \u2013 2 \u2013 3 drops \u2013 (base: rich, sweet, floral) \u2013 relaxing and mood-elevating.<\/p>\n

    Grapefruit \u2013 2 \u2013 3 drops \u2013 (secondary top note: fresh, tangy, citrus) \u2013 both contain antioxidants, improve skin health, and promote detoxification.<\/p>\n

    Carrier oil \u2013 grapeseed, olive, jojoba<\/p>\n

    Sweet Dreams Blend: relaxes mind and body, sleep aid<\/h3>\n

    \"\"Mandarin + Lavender + Valerian + Sandalwood + Chinese Rose<\/p>\n

    This blend is designed to\u00a0help you fall asleep at night.\u00a0 Simply massage a few drops of oil over temples, behind ears, inside of wrists, and on the bottoms of your feet about ten minutes before bed.<\/p>\n

    Mandarin \u2013 1 \u2013 2 drops \u2013 (top note: light, fruity, citrus) \u2013 relaxing, cleansing; also a digestive aid.<\/p>\n

    Lavender\u00a0\u2013 12 \u2013 14 drops \u2013 (middle: sweet, floral, herbaceous) \u2013 promotes relaxation; also a powerful anti-inflammatory and natural detoxifier.<\/p>\n

    Valerian \u2013 6 \u2013 7 drops \u2013 (base: warm, woody, balsam, musky) \u2013 powerful natural sleep aid;\u00a0reduces anxiety; lowers blood pressure.<\/p>\n

    Sandalwood \u2013 3 \u2013 4 drops \u2013 (base: soft, woody, light balsam) \u2013 soothing, anti-inflammatory; also a decongestant.<\/p>\n

    Chinese Rose \u2013 2 \u2013 3 drops \u2013 (middle: soft, spicy, sweet, floral) \u2013 relaxes; adds depth to the blend\u2019s aroma.<\/p>\n

    Carrier oil \u2013 grapeseed<\/p>\n

    Morning Blossom Blend: digestive health, soothing<\/h3>\n

    Ginger + Cardamom + Ylang Ylang + Bergamot + Neroli + Grapefruit<\/p>\n

    This oil blend is great for relieving tension, muscle spasms, bloating, and nausea.\u00a0 Pour a few drops of this blend into your palm and let it warm to body temperature.\u00a0 Gently massage over the stomach or into skin on the inside of your wrists, behind your ears, or on the bottoms of your feet.<\/p>\n

    Ginger \u2013 2 \u2013 3 drops \u2013 (middle: fresh, warm, woody, bright) \u2013 settles the stomach; also antioxidant and a natural fever-reducer.<\/p>\n

    Cardamom \u2013 2 \u2013 3 drops \u2013 (middle: warm, green, aromatic spice) \u2013 traditionally used in Ayurveda to invigorate the body and quell nausea; also promotes mental clarity, soothes nerves, and aids in detoxification.<\/p>\n

    Bergamot \u2013 12 \u2013 15 drops \u2013 (top note: fresh, spicy, floral, citrus) \u2013 relaxes stressed muscles; also a natural odor neutralizer, mood elevator, and fever reducer.<\/p>\n

    Frankincense \u2013 5 \u2013 6 drops \u2013 (base: fresh, woody, spicy, balsam, light citrus) \u2013 soothing, digestive aid; also antioxidant and anti-inflammatory.<\/p>\n

    Neroli \u2013 2 \u2013 3 drops \u2013 (secondary top note: sugary, citrus) and \u2026<\/p>\n

    Grapefruit \u2013 2 \u2013 3 drops \u2013 (tertiary top note: fresh, tangy, citrus) \u2013 both contain antioxidants, improve skin health, and promote detoxification.<\/p>\n

    Carrier oil \u2013 grapeseed, jojoba, almond<\/p>\n

    ***While all of the ingredients used in this blend are considered to be safe for use by pregnant women, it is always recommended to consult your attending physician before starting any new herbal remedy treatment during pregnancy.***<\/p>\n

    Pain Relief Blend I (Sweet Wood): relaxes muscles, calming<\/h3>\n

    Roman Chamomile + Australian Sandalwood + Lemon + Neroli<\/p>\n

    Roman Chamomile \u2013 drops \u2013 (middle: fresh, rich, sweet, fruity, apple) \u2013 relieves pain and inflammation, relaxes mind and body, and aids in healing wounds.<\/p>\n

    Australian Sandalwood \u2013 drops \u2013 (base: soft, woody, warm, hint of balsam) \u2013 a natural mood-lifter, heightens the senses, promotes relaxation, and opens the airways.<\/p>\n

    Lemon\u00a0\u2013 drops \u2013 (top: crisp, citrus) \u2013 adds a very cleansing note to the blend, anti-inflammatory, promotes skin regeneration.<\/p>\n

    Neroli \u2013 drops \u2013 (top note: light, sweet, floral, soft citrus) \u2013 mentally soothing and anti-inflammatory.<\/p>\n

    Carrier oil \u2013 grapeseed, jojoba<\/p>\n

    Pain Relief Blend II (Fruit & Spice): relaxes muscles, mood-elevating<\/h3>\n

    Bergamot + Lavender + Myrrh + Roman Chamomile<\/p>\n

    Bergamot \u2013 2 \u2013 3 drops \u2013 (top: fresh, spicy, floral, citrus) \u2013 in addition to relaxing stressed muscles, also a natural deodorant, mood-lifter, and fever-reducer.<\/p>\n

    Lavender \u2013 10 \u2013 12 drops \u2013 (middle: crisp, floral, green) \u2013 promotes skin health, detoxification, and wound-healing.<\/p>\n

    Myrrh \u2013 8 \u2013 9 drops \u2013 (base: dry, creamy, resinous) \u2013 relaxing and fragrant, with regenerative properties.<\/p>\n

    Chamomile, Roman \u2013 4 \u2013 5 drops \u2013 (middle: fresh, rich, sweet, fruity, apple) \u2013 relieves pain and inflammation, relaxes mind and body, and aids in healing wounds.<\/p>\n

    Carrier oil \u2013 grapeseed, jojoba<\/p>\n

    Pain Relief Blend III (Warm Earth): soothes aching joints, relaxing<\/h3>\n

    Clary Sage + Cajeput + Turmeric + Ginger<\/p>\n

    Clary Sage \u2013 2 \u2013 3 drops \u2013 (middle: dry, musky, bittersweet, floral) \u2013 naturally reduces inflammation and muscle tension, also soothes and relaxes the mind and eyes.<\/p>\n

    Cajeput \u2013 12 \u2013 15 drops \u2013 (top note: strong, slightly sweet & fruity, camphor) \u2013 warms skin, reduces muscle tension, and relieves pain<\/p>\n

    Turmeric \u2013 7 \u2013 8 drops \u2013 (base: fresh, spicy, woody) \u2013 powerful natural anti-inflammatory and pain reliever with antioxidant properties.<\/p>\n

    Ginger \u2013 3 \u2013 4 drops \u2013 (middle: crisp, tangy, earthy) \u2013 natural pain killer and anti-spasmodic, also promotes mental clarity and good digestion.<\/p>\n

    Carrier oil \u2013 grapeseed, olive, jojoba<\/p>\n

    Pain Relief Blend IV (Fresh Balsam): cools inflammation, invigorating<\/h3>\n

    Eucalyptus\u00a0+ Scotch Pine \/ Lavender + Sweet Marjoram + Grapefruit<\/p>\n

    Eucalyptus \u2013 2 \u2013 3 drops \u2013 (top note: refreshing, sharp, strong camphor) \u2013 offers strong relief from joint pain, tension, and sore muscles.<\/p>\n

    Scotch Pine \u2013 13 \u2013 14 drops \u2013 (middle: dry, woody, balsam) \u2013 stimulating to the senses with anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.<\/p>\n

    Copaiba Balsam \u2013 5 \u2013 6 drops \u2013 (base: mild, sweet, woody, green) stimulating and detoxifying with anti-inflammatory properties.<\/p>\n

    Sweet Marjoram \u2013 3 \u2013 4 drops \u2013 (bright, sweet, balsam) \u2013 a very soothing and uplifting aromatherapy oil that also helps to relieve muscle tension.<\/p>\n

    Grapefruit \u2013 2 \u2013 3 drops \u2013 (fresh, tangy, citrus) \u2013 antioxidant rich, promotes healthy skin and cell regeneration, clears the mind, and invigorates.<\/p>\n

    Carrier oil \u2013 grapeseed, olive, jojoba<\/p>\n

    Deep Forest Blend: promotes organ health, detoxifying<\/h3>\n

    Rosemary + Atlas Cedarwood + Oregano + Grapefruit + Thuja<\/p>\n

    Rosemary\u00a0\u2013 2 \u2013 3 drops \u2013 (middle: strong, fresh, camphor, woody, balsamic) \u2013 anti-microbial, anti-fungal; also relieves pain, inflammation, and congestion; sharpens the mind.<\/p>\n

    Atlas Cedarwood \u2013 10 \u2013 12 drops \u2013 (base: woody, balsamic, rich dry overtones) relaxing, detoxifying; also promotes cell regeneration.<\/p>\n

    Oregano\u00a0\u2013 5 \u2013 6 drops \u2013 (middle: warm, spicy, herbaceous) \u2013 anti-microbial, anti-fungal, and anti-parasitic; also aids with digestion and detoxifies the body.<\/p>\n

    Grapefruit \u2013 2 \u2013 3 drops \u2013 (top note: fresh, tangy, citrus) \u2013 antioxidant rich, promotes healthy skin and cell regeneration; also clears the mind and invigorates.<\/p>\n

    Thuja \u2013 3 \u2013 4 drops \u2013 (top note: sharp, fresh, camphoraceous) stimulating, detoxifying; also eases joint and tendon pain.<\/p>\n

    Carrier oil \u2013 olive, grapeseed, jojoba<\/p>\n

     <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

    Tips for Mixing Essential Oils Of course everyone has different likes and dislikes when it comes to aromas of essential oils.\u00a0 Not every individual will enjoy the scent of every recipe on this page. For this reason, I urge you to use your nose diligently.\u00a0 Before mixing two or more different oils together, test a […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"template-fullwidth.php","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-258","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/goldcoast-it.net\/site\/botanicals\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/258","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/goldcoast-it.net\/site\/botanicals\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/goldcoast-it.net\/site\/botanicals\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/goldcoast-it.net\/site\/botanicals\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/goldcoast-it.net\/site\/botanicals\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=258"}],"version-history":[{"count":11,"href":"https:\/\/goldcoast-it.net\/site\/botanicals\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/258\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":993,"href":"https:\/\/goldcoast-it.net\/site\/botanicals\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/258\/revisions\/993"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/goldcoast-it.net\/site\/botanicals\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=258"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}