Fixed vs Essential Oils: Understanding Their Differences and Uses

Sep 29

Oils are a versatile medium in herbalism, crucial for delivering medicinal properties of plants into the body. With numerous unique oils available, each has distinct characteristics and effects. Some oils are lightweight, while others are thick and viscous. Volatile oils evaporate into the air, creating distinct aromas, whereas fixed oils are nonvolatile, sinking into our skin or being ingested. Understanding these attributes helps us appreciate how each type of oil contributes to herbal medicine.

When volatile oils enter the air we may inhale them, absorbing their components directly into our bodies, into our bloodstreams. On our skin fixed oil nourishes, mimicking the natural oils secreted by our bodies. Inside of us it is nutritious, able to dissolve and deliver essential, fat-soluble vitamins to our bodies. Without consuming oil and fat we would not be able to absorb these vital nutrients!

Scent and Source

These two types of oil not only differ in how we use them but also in their physical characteristics. Take their scent for instance. Volatile oils, like essential oils, are highly aromatic and contain compounds like flavonoids and terpenes, which can alter our moods. Terpenes are powerful, bioactive compounds that are abundant in essential oils, responsible for the function of aromatherapy. These oils come from the fruits, flowers, bark, roots, and leaves of plants.

Fixed oils, in contrast, tend to have an earthy or nutty scent, derived primarily from nuts or seeds.

Physical Characteristics and Usage

The action of these oils is not only due to the scent of them but also their viscosity and the physical feel of them. Volatile oils are thin and evaporate quickly, making them ideal for aromatherapy but too intense for direct skin application without dilution. Try putting a drop of essential oil on a piece of paper, within minutes the drop will disappear, leaving the surroundings smelling of the essence.

Fixed oils, praised for their skin benefits, vary in viscosity and absorption rates. They can be used as carrier oils to dilute essential oils and enhance topical application.

Volatile/Essential Oils

Evaporation: Readily evaporate into the air.

Components: Contain terpenes and other bioactive compounds.

Density: Low density, making them thin and lightweight.

Usage: Should be used diluted due to their intensity.

Fixed Oils

Evaporation: Nonvolatile, do not evaporate.

Components: Made mainly of glycerides and fatty acids.

Absorption: Absorb into the skin, delivering fat-soluble nutrients.

Usage: Nourish the skin and body, mimicking natural body oils.

Fixed Oils as Carrier Oils

There are so many different types of fixed oils that all vary in their effects. Some absorb quickly and leave a light level of moisture retention, while others are thick and slow to absorb, perfect for massage oils! Some are liquid at room temp while others like coconut oil are solid. Not to be confused with butters which are quite solid.

Because of their versatility and mildness, fixed oils make for great carrier oils! And carrier oils, just like they sound, carry compounds and allow them to be absorbed by the body. Oil infusions are a favorite way to extract herbal constituents, very common in topical formulas. Carriers oils are needed when essential oils and terpenes are desired to be applied topically. Fixed and volatile oils work together to bring you the best of both worlds!

The Magical Dance of Oils

In the enchanting world of herbalism, fixed and essential oils perform a magical dance, each bringing their unique flair to the stage. As the volatile oils pirouette through the air, filling our senses with captivating aromas, the steadfast fixed oils provide a nurturing embrace, seeping into our skin with their nourishing touch. Together, they weave a symphony of scents and sensations, transforming our daily routines into rituals of wellness and wonder.

So next time you reach for that bottle of oil, remember: you're not just applying a product—you're inviting a little bit of nature's magic into your life. Let the oils whisper their secrets to you, and let their natural goodness guide you on a journey of health and harmony.