Diluting Essential Oils

The normal dilution is 3 to 5 drops of essential oil to 1 tsp. of carrier oil.

For babies the opinions vary widely from no essential oils to 1 drop of lavender in 1 Tbs. of carrier oil or in a bath. Or use a drop of lavender essential oil on a pillow or a favorite toy to help the baby relax and fall to sleep.

For children 1 to 5 years old the dose can be 2 drops to 1 Tbs. oil.

6 years to 12 years use 1 drop per 2 tsp. of carrier oil for a massage.

Pregnant women shouldn't use essential in the first 3 months unless they really know the oil. ( Lavender shouldn't be used in the first 3 months because it can cause contractions of the uterus, but is safe after that.) Use 1 drop of essential oil to 2 tsp. of carrier oil. Some sources say you can use 0.5% or 1/2 strength of the normal adult dilution. Talk about a wide range. Guess you have to take your pick.

Elderly use 1/2 the normal dilution.

Some recipes call for a different percentage of dilutions. Here's a chart to make it easier and faster for you. I love cheat sheets!

1 ml. = 20 drops
1 tsp. = 5 cc's or 5 ml or 1/6 oz.
10 ml. = 2 tsp. or 1/3 oz.
3 tsp = 1 Tbs. or 15 ml. or 1/2 oz.
2 Tbs. = 1 ounce or 30 ml. or 1 oz.
50 ml.= 1-2/3 oz.
120 ml. = 4 oz. or 1/2 cup.

Dilutions differ according to what you're doing with it, and I don't know about you, but math. can be pretty scary at times. Any way, when I'm busy making something, I don't like to take the time for math. Hope this helps you as much as much as it helps me.

Dilutions can vary so much according to what you're making or using it for. A massage blend for relaxing is much weaker then one you'll need for joint pain. And essential can be diluted in other things besides carrier oils. Sometimes I use water or alcohol ( not rubbing alcohol). It really is fun.

Return from diluting essential oils to Uses for Lavender Essential oil