Jojoba Essential Carrier Oil
Latin name: simondsia chinensis
This oil is actually a liquid wax (which means it won't go rancid)! It has virtually no colour and has a slightly smoky smell, and it contains fatty acids, proteins and skin-feeding minerals. It is known as the "skin's twin" in skin-care circles (as it is very similar in structure to our skin's natural sebum). It contains protein, minerals, plant wax and myristic acid (which also has an anti-inflammatory action). It is not nut based. Since it penetrates the skin very quickly it is not ideal for massage, but it is excellent for nourishing the skin.
Properties and uses:
It is excellent for all skin types
It is especially useful for eczema and psoriasis, as well as dermatitis and skin inflammations
It is easily absorbed, is non-oily and has a softening effect
It can help to soften and unclog pores when used as a facial massage medium
It is a good base oil for use in cases of arthritis and rheumatism
Because it does not go rancid, it can prevent the other oils mixed with it from going rancid
It can provide some protection against UV rays
The advantages of carrier oils are:they act as a lubricant for massagethey facilitate the absorption of the essential oil into the skinthey are light and non-viscous, offering no impediment to absorptionthey are virtually odourlessthey do not evaporatethey have specific properties that are beneficial in their own right
We generally pay great respect to the value of essential oils, but we often forget the therapeutic benefits of the carrier oils themselves. Their vitamin content and their essential fatty acids are an invaluable aid in softening and enriching the skin. Some carrier oils help with skin irritations (e.g. eczema and psoriasis). They can also be used to reduce scar tissue and wrinkles.
When buying carrier oils for aromatherapy, it is important to choose quality oils from a reliable supplier. The best nut or seed based oils are cold pressed, and where there is a choice between refined or unrefined, it is always better to choose the latter, as this will ensure the highest concentrations the oils particular vitamins and fatty acids. Of course, not all oils can be cold pressed or unrefined Grapeseed is pressed but involves the use of higher temperatures, thus losing some of its potency, Calendula and St Johns Wort are infused, and Coconut is fractionated.
Of course, the carrier has to complement the essential oil. So for use on the face, for instance, Sweet Almond or Peach Kernel are light, gentle and odourless. Oils with a stronger odour, such as Avocado, are more suitable for use overnight. You can, however, blend a lighter with a heavier oil to avoid problems such as odour or even cost. The possibilities are endless and exciting.
