If you’re into essential oils, you’ve probably heard about dilution. But let’s be honest—figuring out the right dilution ratios can feel like a science experiment! How many drops should you use? What’s the right balance between essential oils and carrier oils?
If you’ve ever stood in your kitchen staring at a bottle of oil, wondering if you’re about to overdo it (or underdo it), don’t worry—you’re not alone! This guide will break down essential oil dilution in a super simple way, so you can mix with confidence.
Why Do You Need to Dilute Essential Oils?
Essential oils are extremely concentrated. We’re talking hundreds of pounds of plants distilled into just a few drops! While this makes them powerful, it also means they can be too strong to apply directly to your skin.
Dilution helps you:
Avoid skin irritation – Some oils (like cinnamon and oregano) can be hot on the skin if not diluted.
Make your oils last longer – A well-diluted blend gives you all the benefits without wasting oil.
Ensure proper absorption – Essential oils dissolve better in carrier oils, making them more effective when applied topically.
In short? Diluting your essential oils properly is the key to safe and effective use!
Essential Oil Dilution Chart (Made Simple!)
Now, let’s get to the good stuff—how many drops should you actually use?
Here’s a quick reference guide to help you measure essential oils correctly:
| Drops of Essential Oil | Teaspoons/Tablespoons | Ounces | Drams | Milliliters (ml) |
| 12 drops | ⅛ tsp | 1/48 oz. | ⅙ dram | ⅝ ml. |
| 25 drops | ¼ tsp | 1/24 oz. | ⅓ dram | 1 ¼ ml. |
| 100 drops | 1 tsp | ⅙ oz. | 1⅓ dram | 5 ml |
| 150 drops | 1½ tsp | ¼ oz. | 2 drams | 7.5 ml |
| 300 drops | 1 Tbsp | ½ oz. | 4 drams | 15 ml |
Now that you have these measurements, let’s talk about how to actually use them in everyday life.
How to Use This Chart in Real Life
Knowing how many drops equal a teaspoon is useful, but how do you apply this when making your own blends? Let’s break it down into different uses:
1. For Roller Bottle Blends
Roller bottles are great for on-the-go aromatherapy or targeted relief (think headaches, stress, or muscle tension).
- A 10ml roller bottle holds about 200 drops total.
- If you want a 5% dilution, that’s 10 drops of essential oil and the rest carrier oil.
- For a gentle 2% dilution (good for daily use), use 4 drops of essential oil and fill the rest with a carrier oil like fractionated coconut or jojoba oil.
Pro tip: Always shake before applying, as essential oils can settle over time!
2. For Massage Oils
A well-diluted massage oil can be deeply relaxing and help with sore muscles, circulation, and stress relief.
- A 30ml bottle (about 1 ounce) should contain 6-12 drops of essential oil for a gentle 1-2% dilution.
- Popular choices include lavender for relaxation, peppermint for cooling relief, or eucalyptus for respiratory support.
Pro tip: Start with a lower dilution and increase if needed—especially for sensitive skin!
3. For Diffuser Blends
Diffusing essential oils is one of the easiest ways to enjoy their aromatic benefits—whether you want to freshen the air, uplift your mood, or promote better sleep.
- Use 3-5 drops of essential oil per 100ml of water in your diffuser.
- If you have a bigger diffuser (300-500ml), you can go up to 10-15 drops.
Pro tip: Blend citrus oils (like orange, lemon, or grapefruit) for an energising scent, or mix lavender and chamomile for a calming nighttime blend.
4. For DIY Skincare & Body Oils
Essential oils can be a fantastic addition to body lotions, face serums, and bath oils, but you need to be extra careful with dilution.
- For face oils, a 0.5-1% dilution is best (that’s 3-6 drops per 30ml of carrier oil).
- For body lotions or bath oils, stick to 1-2% dilution (6-12 drops per 30ml).
Pro tip: Always do a patch test before using a new oil on your skin!
Common Dilution Mistakes to Avoid
Even seasoned essential oil users make mistakes! Here are a few things to watch out for:
Using too much essential oil – More is NOT always better! Stick to recommended dilution ratios to avoid skin irritation.
Not using a carrier oil – Essential oils should never be applied directly to the skin unless it’s a very gentle oil (like lavender) in a tiny amount.
Mixing too many oils at once – A good rule of thumb is to stick to 2-4 essential oils per blend so the scents don’t get overwhelming.
Final Thoughts: Dilution Made Easy!
Diluting essential oils doesn’t have to be complicated! With this simple guide, you can confidently create your own blends for roller bottles, massages, skincare, and more. Just remember:
- Start with a low dilution and increase as needed.
- Always use a carrier oil for topical applications.
- Experiment and have fun—blending essential oils is an art!
Looking for fresh, authentic essential oils to create your perfect blends? Amrita Court Global offers the purest, high-quality essential oils to ensure every drop is powerful and effective.
Now go ahead—blend, dilute, and enjoy the amazing benefits of essential oils!