The bottle says "essential oil" — can I use Botanika Almond Oil in an aroma diffuser like lavender or tea tree oil?

Despite the name on the label, Botanika Almond Oil is a plant oil used as a base or carrier oil, not a classic highly concentrated essential oil. Lavender, tea tree and eucalyptus essential oils are volatile aromatic oils meant for inhalation or dilution in a carrier. Almond oil is pressed from almonds and is thick, fatty and nourishing, so it is unsuitable for a diffuser. It will not evaporate or produce a scent, and adding it to a burner could create a mess.

What it is good for is skin and hair care: it is often chosen for dry, delicate skin and for areas that need extra softness and elasticity. You can apply it directly to the skin, add a few drops to a massage blend, or mix it with another cosmetic oil. If you want a massage oil with a pleasant smell, you can blend almond oil with a few drops of a true essential oil such as lavender — almond oil does not interfere with aromatic oils.

Because it is a base oil, it spreads easily and leaves a light protective film on the skin without an overly heavy finish when used sparingly. If you are used to fine, watery facial oils, start with one or two drops and increase if needed.

For safety, avoid contact with eyes, and if you have sensitive skin or a nut allergy, patch-test first and use with extra caution. This product is a cosmetic oil for external use; it is not intended to diagnose, treat or prevent any condition.