Essential Oil Dilution Calculator
Enter how much carrier you have and the dilution you want. The calculator gives the number of drops and the volume of essential oil to add, on the same basis as the common dilution charts.
The formula
Worked example. 30 ml of carrier at 2% takes 0.6 ml of essential oil, which is 12 drops at 20 drops per ml.
How to use it
- Enter the amount of carrier oil, lotion or unscented base in millilitres or US fluid ounces.
- Choose a dilution. For adults, 0.5–1% is common for the face and sensitive skin and 1–3% for body products. Check the maximum your supplier gives for each oil, as some are much lower.
- Keep 20 drops per ml unless you have measured your dropper. Droppers and oils vary, so weighing on a 0.01 g scale is more precise for larger batches.
- Add the essential oil to the carrier, mix well, label the bottle and patch-test before wider use.
Questions
Is the percentage of the carrier or of the finished blend?
Of the carrier. That is the convention behind the familiar chart of 6, 12 and 18 drops per 30 ml for 1, 2 and 3%. At these small percentages the difference from measuring against the finished blend is negligible.
Why do drop counts differ between charts?
Drop size depends on the dropper and the oil's thickness; estimates range from about 20 to 30 drops per ml. Most charts use 20. If you have measured your own dropper, enter your number.
Is this suitable for children or during pregnancy?
Lower dilutions are generally recommended for children, and some oils should be avoided altogether. Follow guidance from a qualified aromatherapist or your doctor, and never take essential oils internally based on a calculator.