Carrier Oils, Part Two

In Carrier Oils, Part One we presented information on the therapeutic value of several well-known carrier oils. Here we continue that topic by introducing some lesser-known, more exotic oils.

All of these oils are rich with fatty acids and contain nutrients which we absorb transdermally. They also contain a variety of antioxidants which fight skin-damaging free radicals. These oils can be used straight or mixed with a carrier oil (see Part One). A little bit goes a long way — simply apply a few drops and pat into skin.

Rosehip Seed Oil

Life-Flo produces some very fine oils such asorganic rosehip seed oil, also known as rosa mosqueta. This native of the Chilean Andes is an exquisitely rich oil that nourishes and hydrates dry, dull skin, but is not recommended for oily skin or acne. It is also very useful for treating scars (even old scars), burns, and prematurely aged skin. Combine with several drops oflavender essential oil for additional benefits in healing scars and burns. For a luxurious in-home spa experience, use rosehip seed oil as a hot oil treatment to revitalize the scalp and rehydrate damaged hair.

Argan Oil

Argan oil, also known as "The Gold of Morocco," is a "superfood" for the skin and hair. It is a rich source of Vitamin E and essential fatty acids and skin-supporting nutrients. Argan oil can soften the skin, rejuvenate aged or sun-damaged skin and calm over reactive skin. In addition, it can help soften dry, brittle nails and nourish and hydrate dry hair and scalp. For improving the appearance of scars and stretch marks, use a few drops offrankincense essential oil to argan oil and apply to skin. We carry organic, cold-pressed argan oils fromLife-Flo andSimplers.

Tamanu Oil

Tamanu oil comes from a tree that grows in the South Pacific islands where this oil has been used for generations for its therapeutic action on the skin. Tamanu enhances the skin's ability to rejuvenate and heal itself. It is helpful for healing cuts, scrapes, burns, insect bites and stings. It is also useful for psoriasis, eczema, acne and acne scars and even herpes sores. This exotic oil can also be used as a massage oil for sciatica and neuralgia; add in a few drops ofpeppermint essential oil to enhance the effect. Life-Flo's Pure Tamanu Oil is organically grown and cold pressed—no damaging heat or solvents are used to produce it.

From Evergreen's Archives: July 2009