Apricot Kernel Oil
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Apricot oil is similar to Sweet Almond oil (see below) but is
usually slightly more expensive.
Its characteristics include a pale yellow colour, only slight viscosity,
and it is very oily.
"Persic Oil" is the name of the fixed (carrier) oil extracted from
the kernels of apricots (as well as other similar fruits such as peaches, cherries
and plums) by the process of cold expression.
Odour: |
Moderately strong smell, similar to marzipan. |
Plant & Environs. |
Indigenous to China, now grown in many locations
including the Middle-East, USA and France. |
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Grapeseed Oil
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Grapeseed oil is one of the most popular carrier oils used by
bodywork therapists. It is a very fine oil that keeps moderately
well and (when used as a massage medium) leaves skin with a smooth
finish that is non-greasy.
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Odour:
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Virtually odourless; no distinctive smell.
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Plant & Environs.
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Grapevines are deciduous climbers, there are many different
varieties. Grapeseed oil originated from France and is now
produced in California, Italy, and Spain.
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Peach Kernel Oil
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Peach kernel oil is similar to apricot kernal oil and sweet almond
oil, however it is usually slightly more expensive than sweet almond
oil.
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Odour:
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No odour.
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Plant & Environs.
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The peach tree is a small deciduous tree of up to about
25 feet (8 m) height. It is indigenous to China, was brought
to Europe by the Romans, and to the USA in the 17th Century.
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Sweet Almond Oil
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Sweet almond oil is one of the most popular carrier oils used
by bodywork therapists. It has a pale yellow colour and is only
slightly viscous (thick consistency), but very oily.
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Odour:
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Unrefined sweet almond oil has a delicate sweet smell.
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Plant & Environs.
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Indigenous to Middle-East, now also grown in the Mediterranean
and South-Eastern USA.
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Vitamins:
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A, B1, B2, B6, E
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Wheatgerm Oil
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Wheatgerm oil is especially beneficial for tired muscles and so
is an appropriate base oil for use for after-sports massage.
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Odour:
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Unrefined wheatgerm oil has a strong odour.
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Plant & Environs.
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A cereal grass indigenous to West Asia, now also grown in
many locations across the world.
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Vitamins:
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A, B1, B2, B3, B6, E, F.
Wheatgerm oil is especially noted for its high vitamin E content.
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Minerals:
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Cl, Co, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Na, S, Si, Zn.
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Note: Persons allergic to wheat flour should be tested
for possible skin reaction before receiving a massage or aromatherapy
treatment that includes the use of Wheatgerm carrier oil.
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Advice
Notes: Some
of the above oils may have contra-indications, and some people
may be allergic to them.
Always research the side-effects of oils and do patch tests for skin
sensitivity before use.
The above revision information is intended for therapists qualified
in the use of carrier oils.
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