health information
What is the difference between edible cooking oils and carrier oils is used in aromatherapy?
I am experimenting with the carrier oils used in aromatherapy interested. But where I come from (Singapore), aromatherapy is not such a big deal and so that their products are priced fairly exorbitant. I wonder whether I Did for edible oils carrier oils (eg sunflower oil, sesame oil, olive oil could replace, etc.) anyone tried it?
Theroretically yes. But most cooking oils are processed to give them a longer shelf life – this is not so good for aromatherapy. That’s partly why carrier oils sold for aromatherapy can seem more expensive.
If looking in the cooking oils look for oils which say they are “cold pressed” and/or “virgin” which means the first pressing. Sunflower oil is often processed, so I would be wary of that. Cold-pressed extra-virgin olive oil would fit the bill, but can have a strong smell and some aromatherapists dislike it for that reason. If using sesame oil make sure it is not the toasted version often used in cooking. You might want to experiement with mixtures of different oils as they all behave differently and have different aromas.