Here are some simple guidelines for diluting essential oils.

MASSAGE
For a 0.5% dilution use 2-3 drops in 20mls of vegetable oil or 5-6 drops in 50 mls.
Use for children under 10, eczema, psoriasis, sensitive skin, facial, pregnancy, emotional and spiritual blends.
For children less than 18 months of age use 1-2 drops of essential oil in 20 mls cold pressed vegetable oil.

For a 2 or 2.5% dilution use 8-10 drops in 20mls of vegetable oil or 20-25 drops in 50 mls.
This is a blend for everyday use.

For a 5% dilution use 20-30 drops in 20mls of vegetable oil or 50-60 drops in 50 mls.
Use for short term or localized treatment. For example colds/flu, localised pain, bruising and infection.

LOTIONS, CREAMS AND OINTMENTS
For a 0.5% dilution use 3-4 drops in 30mls/grams of oil/cream or 5-6 drops in 50 mls/grams.
Use for children under 10, eczema, psoriasis, sensitive skin blends.
For children less than 18 months of age use 1-2 drops of essential oil in 20 mls/grams vegetable oil/cream.

For a 2 or 2.5% dilution use 12-15 drops in 30mls/grams of vegetable oil/cream or 20-25 drops in 50 mls/grams.
This is a blend for everyday use.

For a 5% dilution use 30-40 drops in 30mls/grams of vegetable oil/cream or 50-60 drops in 50 mls/grams.
Use for short term or localized treatment. For example colds/flu, bruising and infection.

BATHS
Dilute the essential oil in half a cup of full fat milk, a teaspoon of honey, sobuliser or bubble bath before adding to the bath. This helps to disperse the essential oil through the bathwater rather than sitting on top of it. This is especially important in the case of babies and young children. Swish the water vigorously before getting in. Remember to keep the bathroom door closed.

Use 3-4 drops of essential oil for young children, eczema, psoriasis, pregnancy and sensitive skin. 1 or 2 drops is sufficient for children less than 12 months of age.
Use 6-8 drops for relaxation or revitalization.
Use 10-12 drops for infections, acne, boils, colds and flu.

FOOTBATH
Use between 2 and 6 drops of essential oil to a bowl of warm water. Dilute in milk etc. as above and/or swish the water very well.

STEAM INHALATION
Add 3 or 4 drops of essential oil to a bowl of warm water.

DIRECT INHALATION
Put one or two drops on a handkerchief or tissue.
Add 2 or 3 drops of essential oil to a few cotton balls inside a small bottle and close the lid. Use as necessary.

DIFFUSER / VAPORISER
Add 4-8 drops to the diffuser or vaporiser depending on room size.

COMPRESS
Add 2-6 drops to a 500ml bowl of warm or cool water.

MOUTH WASH
Add 1 or 2 drops of essential oil to a glass of water.

ROOM OR BODY SPRAY
Add up to 15 – 20 drops of a single oil or blend to 50 mls of water.

PERFUME
Make your own unique perfume by adding up to 10 drops of essential oil to 10mls of jojoba or a cold pressed vegetable oil.