The Kai journal
How to dilute essential oils: a simple chart
Essential oils are powerful. A single drop can come from a whole handful of leaves, so they should always be mixed into a carrier oil before they touch skin.
What you need. A carrier oil (our cold-pressed coconut, sesame or virgin coconut oil), a teaspoon (5 ml), your essential oil and a small bowl or roller bottle.
The chart.
| Strength | Drops per teaspoon (5 ml) | Use it for |
|---|---|---|
| 0.5% | 1 drop in 2 teaspoons | Children 6 to 12; strong oils like clove and cinnamon leaf |
| 1% | 1 drop | Face, sensitive skin, older adults |
| 2% | 2 drops | Everyday body massage |
| 3% | 3 drops | Short-term use on a small area |
Babies under 2: no essential oils at all. Use plain cold-pressed sesame or coconut oil for baby massage.
Three rules to remember.
- Patch test on the inner arm and wait 24 hours.
- Keep away from eyes. If oil gets in, wipe with a cotton pad soaked in plain carrier oil, not water.
- After using lemon oil on skin, stay out of strong sun for 12 hours.