How to Blend Essential Oils

This article is the first of a four-part series all on the topic of essential oil blending!

Essential oils have gained popularity in recent years for their various health benefits and therapeutic properties. One of the most common ways to use essential oils is by blending them together to create unique and personalized scents. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced aromatherapist, learning how to blend essential oils can be a fun and rewarding process. We will guide you through the steps of blending essential oils to help you create your own signature scent.

1. Choose your essential oils

The first step in blending essential oils is to choose the oils you want to work with. Consider the therapeutic properties and aroma of each oil. Some popular essential oils to start with include lavender, peppermint, eucalyptus, lemon, and tea tree. Keep in mind that essential oils have different top, middle, and base notes, which will affect the overall scent of your blend.

2. Understand the notes

Essential oils are classified into three categories based on their volatility: top notes, middle notes, and base notes. Top notes are the most volatile and evaporate quickly, providing the initial scent of the blend. Middle notes are the heart of the blend and provide balance. Base notes are the least volatile and evaporate slowly, giving the blend its lasting aroma. Understanding the notes will help you create a well-balanced and harmonious blend.

3. Start with a small batch

When blending essential oils, it's best to start with a small batch to test the scent and ensure you like the combination. A good rule of thumb is to use a 2% dilution rate, which means adding 12 drops of essential oil to every 30ml (1oz) of carrier oil or alcohol. This will give you a balanced blend without overpowering the senses.

4. Experiment with ratios

Once you have chosen your essential oils and determined the dilution rate, it's time to experiment with different ratios. Start by blending equal parts of each oil and then adjust the ratios based on your preference. Keep track of the number of drops you add to each blend so you can recreate it later if desired.

5. Consider the purpose of your blend

When blending essential oils, consider the purpose or desired effect of your blend. Are you looking for a calming blend to promote relaxation, or an energizing blend to boost focus and concentration? Different oils have different therapeutic properties, so choose oils that align with your intention.

6. Use a blending tool

A blending tool, such as a glass dropper or pipette, can be helpful when measuring and mixing essential oils. This will ensure accuracy and prevent cross-contamination between oils. Be sure to clean your blending tool thoroughly between each use to avoid any unwanted mixing of scents.

7. Let your blend mature

After blending your essential oils, it's important to let the blend mature for at least 24 hours. This allows the oils to fully combine and develop their true scent. Keep your blend in a dark, cool place during this time to preserve its potency.

8. Time to enjoy

Once your blend has matured, it's time to enjoy it. If you're satisfied with the blend, you can start using it in your diffuser, bath, or as a personal fragrance. If not, make note of any adjustments you'd like to make and repeat the blending process.

9. Document your recipes

As you experiment with blending essential oils, it's helpful to document your recipes. Keep a journal or digital file where you can record the oils used, ratios, and any adjustments made. This will allow you to recreate your favorite blends in the future and track your progress as you become more experienced.

10. Have fun and be creative

Blending essential oils is a creative process, so don't be afraid to have fun and experiment with different combinations. Trust your senses and intuition when creating blends, and remember that there are no right or wrong choices. Enjoy the journey of discovering your own unique scents and the therapeutic benefits they can bring to your life.

Now that you know the basics of blending essential oils, it's time to get started. Gather your favorite oils, grab a blending tool, and let your creativity flow. With a little practice and experimentation, you'll soon become a master at creating your own personalized blends.