The first thing to realize when blending oils is that you are not an aromatherapist (unless you are, in which case this site is way way too simple for you!) and so you should only blend what you know how to blend…leave anything fancy for the experts.


Second, the mixing of oils creates an entirely new entity, with different properties. In other words, the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. A good rule of thumb is to mix only 2, maybe 3 oils in a blend. Again, this is why a qualified aromatherapist is important.

In the same way, though, that I know the basics of first aid and caring for myself and my family when we are a bit under the weather, I also feel it is within reach to treat minor ailments with aromatherapy, without needing to consult an aromatherapist.

Remember, though, that next to none of the aromatherapy remedies are well studied. There are absolutely no guarantees, and anyone who tells you different is lying.

At the same time, take a moment to look at the ingredients list on Listerene, Tiger Balm, or Vick’s Vapour Rub. Those lists give a hint at some of the things essential oil blends can help with. Please understand, of course, that I am in no way giving medical advice.

And again, remembering to use caution, and only use a little bit (2 – 3 drops per 50 ml of carrier oil is really enough) one of the joys of essential oils is creating a personal scent.

And for all the complaints the “good” aromatherapists have with all the unregulated companies selling shoddy products, even still, it is (in my mind) better than spending a small fortune for the crap that passes for fragrance in department stores.

I just looked up information on my childhood scent of choice, Chanel #5…
essential oils for fragrance and was surprised to find out that it was the first perfume, in 1021, to be proudly touted as “artificial” In 1921, coming from Coco Chanel, this must have seemed very modern. Women at that time needed to reapply their scent often to keep it fresh, and here comes a new, modern idea: artificial scent that lasts forever.

Most women with good taste these days, however, run screaming from the heavy, artificial scents that remind us only of tacky ads in magazine pages and gaudy, overdone images.

What better than to create (carefully) your own signature scent?

Another interesting fact that really does make me want to control what goes in to my scent even more: the Ethiopian Civet…
from what I understand from “The Straight Dope”, it is true that, until 1998, a secretion from the anal glands of the African Civet was used to prolong the scent in Chanel #5, among other fragrances. I wish, at least, I had known this when I was 16 and it was my favorite perfume! Please, people, this does not instill trust in your products : ) From 1998, Chanel has used an artificial civet gland secretion…yea?

More reason to make your own, inexpensive, personal fragrance that you can easily reapply at will.