What Is The Best Oil For Making Eucalyptus Oil?

Eucalyptus oil is an essential oil that is derived from the leaves of Eucalyptus trees. It has a fresh, camphorous, and slightly woody aroma. Eucalyptus oil has many benefits and uses – it is commonly used in aromatherapy, personal care products, cleaning products, and as an insect repellent. Some of the main benefits of eucalyptus oil include relieving respiratory problems like coughs, colds, and congestion; reducing pain and inflammation; improving dental hygiene; and repelling insects.

Knowing the best carrier oil to dilute eucalyptus essential oil with is important for properly and safely utilizing it. Diluting essential oils helps to reduce skin irritation and sensitivity that can occur with concentrated application. The carrier oil also improves absorption and effectiveness. Some of the most common carrier oils used with eucalyptus oil include olive oil, coconut oil, and jojoba oil. Each has their own benefits and properties to consider when creating an eucalyptus oil blend.

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Eucalyptus Oil Production

Eucalyptus oil is extracted from the leaves of eucalyptus trees. The most common method is steam distillation. This involves crushing or grinding the leaves, then placing them in a still with water. The mixture is heated to produce steam, which helps to extract the essential oil from the plant material. The steam and oil vapors are cooled and condensed back into a liquid, allowing the oil and water to separate. The eucalyptus oil floats to the top and is collected.

Alternatively, to make eucalyptus oil at home, the leaves can be soaked in a carrier oil like olive or coconut oil to infuse it with the eucalyptus properties. This is a simpler process but produces a milder oil.

The type of oil used as the carrier oil can affect the quality and properties of the infused eucalyptus oil. Less refined oils help maximize the oil’s beneficial compounds [1].

Carrier Oils for Diluting

Eucalyptus oil is very strong and concentrated, so it should always be diluted with a carrier oil before applying to skin. Using a carrier oil helps prevent skin irritation and sensitization. Some of the most common carrier oils used for diluting eucalyptus oil are:

Olive Oil – A readily available option that provides antioxidant benefits. However, it has a strong scent which may overpower the eucalyptus aroma. Only use up to 10% eucalyptus oil diluted in olive oil on the skin.
Coconut Oil – An easily absorbed oil that helps moisturize skin. Start with a 5% dilution of eucalyptus oil for topical use.
Jojoba Oil – Mimics the natural oils in our skin so it absorbs well. Use up to 20% dilution of eucalyptus oil in jojoba for massage oils.

Always do a patch test on a small area of skin before wider application when using a new diluted oil blend. Never apply eucalyptus oil undiluted directly on the skin as it can result in irritation.

Olive Oil

Olive oil is one of the most popular carrier oils used for diluting essential oils like eucalyptus oil. Some key benefits of using olive oil as a carrier oil include:

Absorption – Olive oil is well absorbed into the skin, allowing the eucalyptus oil to penetrate effectively.
Nutrients – Olive oil contains antioxidants like vitamin E that can nourish the skin.
Anti-inflammatory – Olive oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can complement eucalyptus oil’s effects.

Recent research has shown that the combination of olive oil and eucalyptus oil can help enhance wound healing. According to a study published in OliveOilTimes, the synergy between these two oils “stimulates fibroblast migration and proliferation” and “increases collagen deposition” during the healing process.

The main drawback with olive oil is that it can go rancid more quickly than other carrier oils. Eucalyptus oil blends made with olive oil may need to be stored in the refrigerator and used within a few months.

Overall, olive oil is a suitable carrier oil for diluting and applying eucalyptus oil topically. Its nourishing properties complement eucalyptus oil nicely. Just be mindful of proper storage when blending the two oils.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is a popular carrier oil for diluting essential oils like eucalyptus oil. It has many benefits that make it a good choice:

Coconut oil is readily absorbed into the skin, allowing the eucalyptus oil to permeate more deeply (1).
It has moisturizing and soothing properties that can complement the skin-nourishing benefits of eucalyptus oil (2).
Coconut oil is affordable and widely available (3).

Some drawbacks to using coconut oil as a carrier for eucalyptus are:

It has a noticeable coconut aroma that may overpower the eucalyptus scent (1).
The oil can feel greasy on some skin types (2).
Coconut oil may clog pores for acne-prone skin (3).

Overall, coconut oil is a good choice as a carrier oil for many eucalyptus oil uses. It mixes well, absorbs into skin, and provides additional benefits. But those with oily skin may prefer a lighter, less comedogenic option (1).

Jojoba Oil

Jojoba oil is often touted as the ideal carrier oil for diluting essential oils like eucalyptus oil. It has many benefits that make it well-suited for use with eucalyptus oil:

Jojoba oil has a chemical composition very similar to human sebum, so it is readily absorbed and moisturizing for skin (https://www.auracacia.com/recipes/body-rubbing-oil-with-eucalyptus-essential-oil).
It has a long shelf life and does not go rancid quickly like some other carrier oils.
Jojoba has anti-inflammatory properties that can enhance the soothing effects of eucalyptus oil (https://mockingbirdapothecary.com/products/rejuvenate-massage-oil).

However, jojoba oil does have some potential drawbacks:

It is more expensive than options like olive oil or coconut oil.
Jojoba has a natural nutty odor that some find unappealing.
It can feel too heavy or greasy for some skin types.

Overall, jojoba oil is a premium choice of carrier oil for eucalyptus essential oil. Its chemical stability and moisturizing properties make jojoba and eucalyptus a winning combination.

Other Oils

In addition to the more common carrier oils like olive, coconut, and jojoba, there are some other less common options that can also be used for diluting eucalyptus oil. These include:

Grapeseed oil – This lightweight oil has very mild aroma and absorption properties. It is high in linoleic acid and vitamin E antioxidants. Grapeseed is less greasy than other oils and gets absorbed into the skin quickly, making it a good option for massage oils and body care products.^[1]

Avocado oil – With its higher viscosity and green color, avocado oil has a richer feel compared to other oils. It is very moisturizing and high in oleic acid as well as antioxidants. Avocado oil is excellent for dry, irritated, or aging skin. It’s often used in hair and skin care.^[2]

Almond oil – Derived from pressed raw almonds, this popular oil is light, absorbed rapidly, and acts as an emollient. Almond oil contains vitamins A, B, and E as well as minerals that nourish and soften the skin. It’s mild, hypoallergenic, and often used for massage.^[3]

While less common than traditional carrier oils, grapeseed, avocado, and almond can also be successfully blended with eucalyptus essential oil for various therapeutic uses. They provide different properties and benefits depending on the specific purpose.

^{[1] https://www.auracacia.com/skin-care/skin-care-oils-and-butters}
^{[2] https://www.soothingtouch.com/oil-eucalyptus-spruce.html}
^{[3] https://www.amazon.com/Spa-Redi-Massage-Mint-Eucalyptus/dp/B0764HB8JK}

How to Choose

When selecting a carrier oil for diluting eucalyptus oil, there are a few key criteria to consider:

Absorption – You’ll want an oil that absorbs well into the skin. Oils like coconut, olive, and jojoba are readily absorbed.
Scent – Choose an oil like fractionated coconut oil that has no scent of its own to avoid clashing with the eucalyptus.
Shelf life – Oils like coconut and olive can go rancid more quickly. Jojoba has a longer shelf life.

Based on these criteria, some top recommendations for diluting eucalyptus oil are:

Jojoba oil – With its long shelf life and easy absorption, jojoba is ideal for diluting eucalyptus. It has no scent of its own. One study found jojoba to be the most suitable carrier for eucalyptus ^[1].
Fractionated coconut oil – Its light texture absorbs quickly without leaving skin greasy. And it has virtually no scent.
Sweet almond oil – Sweet almond mixes well with eucalyptus and absorbs into skin smoothly.

No matter which carrier oil you choose, always do a patch test before wider use. Dilute eucalyptus oil properly starting with 1% ratio (60 drops per 1 oz) and increase concentration gradually if needed.

Using Eucalyptus Oil

Diluted eucalyptus oil can be used in a variety of ways to promote wellness and improve quality of life. Here are some examples:

Aromatherapy

Eucalyptus oil is commonly used in aromatherapy. It can be diffused into the air using a diffuser to promote feelings of clear breathing and open airways. According to Healthline, inhaling eucalyptus oil can help ease congestion and respiratory issues like asthma, bronchitis, and COPD. It is also thought to improve mental clarity and focus.

Massage

When diluted with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil, eucalyptus oil can be massaged into the skin to help relieve muscle aches and pains. According to WebMD, it has anti-inflammatory properties that may reduce joint pain when applied topically. It creates a cooling, invigorating sensation.

Cleaning

Due to its antimicrobial and antibacterial properties, diluted eucalyptus oil makes an effective eco-friendly surface cleaner. It can help sanitize countertops, floors, and other areas of the home. Mount Sinai notes eucalyptus oil has been used as an antiseptic and to help clean wounds.

Always be sure to dilute eucalyptus oil properly before use and do a patch test before applying it directly to the skin to avoid any irritation.

Conclusion

Of the various oils used to dilute eucalyptus essential oil, olive oil stands out as the best option for most people. Olive oil has a light, neutral scent that won’t compete with the strong eucalyptus aroma. It also has well-documented skin moisturizing properties from the oleic acid, making it ideal for eucalyptus oil blends meant for topical use. The polyphenols in olive oil add antioxidant benefits as well. Other oils like coconut, jojoba, and avocado can work but may have a more pronounced scent. Ultimately, olive oil’s affordable price, hypoallergenic nature, and skin-conditioning abilities make it the most versatile and recommended carrier oil for diluting concentrated eucalyptus essential oil for aromatherapy, massage, and other wellness applications.