Blending and Tools of the Trade

Essential OIls are the basis for all traditional aromatherapy. Each one has its own particular fragrance and properties and the art of blending them harmoniously combines the skills of hte perfumer and the pharmacist.

Although 2 essences may have similar smell or property, they may not necessarily mix well together. One essence can overpower the other.
In general, it is best to use a maximum of 3 oils in a blend so that there is less chance of detracting from their individual qualities.

Tools

For mixing, you need a glass, porcelain or aluminum bottle or bowl, a glass stirrer. Check the correct amount of base or carrier oil before adding the Essential oils. If the bottle does not have a dropper in the lid, Use a dropper or pipette for accurate measurement.

Storing of the blends should be in glass well-stoppered bottles. Keep away from light and heat. Most oils stay for upto 5 years. Some get better with age like Patchouli. The Citrus Oils tend to start to fade in a years time.
Dont use plastic to store as both the oils and the bottle will perish. These days, there is a hi-grade non-reactive plastic in which essential oils are said not to cause effect on them.

Buying Essential oils is like a long-term investment. You need buy only rarely and the oil stays a long long time as you are using only a few drops at a time. Oils like Lavender get over soon because of their multiple effects and neat application on burns (yes, I can vouch that the tingly sensation caused by the neat oil is soon offset by the scars that you know should be there but arent...), but some oils like Clary Sage stay (and you feel safe that its around. See internal use)
The Oils I use most would probably be: Lavender,Frankincense, Geranium, Spikenard, Patchouli, Nutmeg & Camphor

Recommended dilution: 1% , maximum 3%. Dilutions like this should be followed:
5 drops in 1 Tablespoon of Base oil
25 drops in 50ml of Base
9 drops per 1 oz. of base.

In general, Oils for the Face need to be more dilute than the ones used on the body. Oils used near the eye area have to be even more light and delicate. I would recommend to use only Rose in the eye area as it is the most non-toxic. Also Base oils to be used in a facial blend should be as light as possible or use only a few drops of the blend if heavier base. Apricot Kernel is very light and good for facial use.