Which carrier oil is commonly used in aromatherapy?

Sweet almond oil is a popular choice in aromatherapy due to its numerous beneficial properties and qualities that make it an excellent carrier oil. Primarily, it has a light texture and absorbs easily into the skin, allowing it to effectively carry essential oils and enhance their absorption and efficacy when applied topically. Sweet almond oil is also rich in vitamins A, B, and E, which provide additional nourishment and hydration to the skin.

In aromatherapy, the use of a carrier oil is essential because it helps dilute essential oils, ensuring they can be safely applied to the skin and reducing the risk of irritation. Sweet almond oil's gentle nature makes it suitable for most skin types, including sensitive skin, further contributing to its prevalence in various formulations and practices.

Other oils like coconut oil and olive oil have their own benefits, but they may not be as widely favored in aromatherapy. Coconut oil can be heavier and may not absorb as easily, while olive oil has a distinct scent that might interfere with the therapeutic properties of essential oils. Vegetable oil is a broad category that encompasses many types of oils, but it often lacks the skin-nourishing properties that sweet almond oil offers, making it less suitable for direct skin application in aromatherapy.