Gauging how much FO/EO/herbs to use in a batch?

[misfities]

Now that I have mastered my base recipe, how do I determine how much EO, FO or herbs to add? I want to make something licorice-smelling, but have no idea how to determine how much of a thing to add. I'd like to add fennel seeds in addition to my EO and FOs.

 

[Susie]

It honestly depends on your FO or EO. There are varying safe usage rates. Some EOs, like cinnamon and clove, need a much reduced rate due to irritation. Others are fine at 0.5 oz PPO. For FOs, you need to contact whoever you bought it from for the safe usage rate. It will probably be on their website somewhere.

Fennel seeds are likely to be scratchy.

 

[shunt2011]

I agree with Susie, check your suppliers website for usage rates. If not posted contact them and they should be able to tell you. I don't use much in the way of botanicals so can't help there. I've used poppyseeds for scrubbie soap once or twice.

 

[dixiedragon]

If you don't have the stuff to make lotion (preservative, e-wax, etc), you could add your EOs to a liquid oil (sweet almond, jojoba, etc) and put some of that on your skin for the scent.