Coconut

Carrier Oil

Fractionated Coconut: Cocos nucifera

Shelf-Life:Indefinite  

Coconut carrier oil is one of the most preferred oils for Aromatherapists, along with jojoba mainly because of it's light texture and long shelf life. It is easily absorbed making it a good massage oil base. An extremely light, clear oil which is odourless. 

 Warning: Some people may be allergic to Coconut carrier oil  

Contains (unrefined) 50% lauric acid. Refined coconut oil, according to Sheppard-Hanger, is closest substance to human sub-cutaneous fat and more compatible with skin than vegetable oils. She states that it has a vertually unlimited shelflife, since it can not turn rancid, and that it can not clog pores, making it an ideal carrier for oily or troubled skin. However, Shirley Price points out that fractionated (or refined) coconut oil is produced by heat, rather than cold pressing, and is usually deodorized since it's natural odor is overwhelming, and asks if we really want to use a fractionated oil in aromatherapy, since it is not a complete product..
My *personal* opinion on the above is "it depends." I vastly prefer a "natural" oil, and yet under some conditions the use of a 'totally natural' carrier can compound the problem. ie, if applying EO's to severely damaged skin, a totally natural carrier could also introduce fungi, molds, or bacteria to the skin as well. Using a refined and sterilized carrier under these conditions could prevent further problems. I have personally used it as a carrier for skin conditions that had proven resistant to any earlier treatment. I also think its "light" texture will make it a wonderful "summer use" oil, when the richer, heavier oils seem too sticky on the skin.
Coconut carrier oil will wash out of sheets, towels, etc. much more easily than most carrier oils, making it a boon to the massage therapist.
Uses: dryness, itching, sensitive skin, tanning aid. Use as base or 10-50% additive.