The Benefits and Properties of Carrot Seed Essential Oil

Carrot seed essential oil, derived from the Daucus carota plant, offers a complex profile that extends far beyond its culinary namesake. This oil, extracted through steam distillation of the seeds, boasts a warm, spicy, and slightly sweet aroma, sometimes with earthy undertones, that belies its potent therapeutic and energetic properties. 

Historically, the carrot root was a symbol of life, while the essential oil has been traditionally used for its ability to support liver health.

This profile highlights how carrot seed essential oil is a versatile tool that can be used for physical and emotional well-being.

The Therapeutic Properties of Carrot Seed Essential Oil

Carrot seed essential oil is a powerhouse of potential, extracted from the seeds of the wild carrot plant, Daucus carota. 

This isn't your average kitchen carrot; it is the source of a potent oil with a variety of impressive properties. 

Let's dive in!

Botanical Name: Daucus carota L. subsp. sativus Hoffm.

Synonyms: Wild carrot, Queen Anne's Lace

Family: Apiaceae (Umbelliferae)

Origins:

The essence of the humble wild carrot, Daucus carota L. subsp. carota, is captured in the form of carrot seed essential oil, through steam distillation of its dried seeds. 

This plant, distinct from its cultivated cousin with the edible orange root, boasts a tough, whitish root and hails from Europe, Asia, and North America. The wild carrot's flowers form intricate umbels, gathering into nest-like clumps that cradle and safeguard the precious seeds.

These seeds, with a history of medicinal use across Europe and Asia, are now primarily harvested for their essential oil in France, Hungary, and Holland. 

Carrot oil is not simply a byproduct but a testament to the plant's rich heritage and the careful process of extracting its therapeutic compounds.

Method of Extraction: Steam distillation of the dried seeds.

Essential Oil Characteristics:

• Aroma: Warm, spicy, and slightly sweet, sometimes with dry or earthy undertones.
• Color: Light-yellow to dark-yellow liquid. Ranges from yellow to amber-colored, pale-orange-brown.
• Consistency: Light to viscous.

ORAC Rating: N/A

Historical and Traditional Uses:

While the carrot is better known for its edible root, the essential oil from its seed has its own unique history.  Most historical references focus on the carrot root rather than the essential oil. However, there's a long history of medicinal use of carrot seeds in both Europe and Asia. Carrot seed oil is also mentioned as a fragrance component in soaps, detergents, creams, lotions, and perfumes. 

Daucus carota has also been used in traditional medicine for a range of ailments, and across cultures, the plant is credited with liver-regenerating properties.

Traditionally, carrot seed oil was used to treat skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and wrinkles, and to aid dry skin. It was also used to help with PMS and to act as a tonic for the liver and gallbladder. Furthermore, carrot seed oil was used to treat jaundice.  

According to one source, the wild carrot was known as the symbol of life or death, and also egoism.

Other Possible Uses:

• Used in the fragrance industry for soaps, detergents, creams, lotions, shampoo, cosmetics, and perfumes.
• Used in some sunscreen preparations to help prevent sunburns
• Contrary to popular belief, it is not used as a source of beta-carotene and vitamin A
• May help with anemia, colic, constipation, diarrhea, eye problems, rashes, fungus, skin health, scars, and scalp health
• Carrot seed EO also helps reduce free radicals.
• May assist in easing PMS.

French Medicinal Uses: N/A

Chemical Composition of Carrot Seed Essential Oil:

• Key Constituents:
  • Carotol (36.1-73.1%)
  • α-Pinene (0.9-11.2%)
  • Dauca-4,8-diene (1.6-5.9%)
  • β-Caryophyllene (0.7-5.6%)
  • (E)-Dauc-8-en-4β-ol (1.7-4.1%)
  • Sabinene (0-3.9%)
  • Geranyl acetate (0-3.7%)
  • β-Bisabolene (1.5-3.1%)
  • Caryophyllene oxide (0.3-2.8%)
  • (E)-β-Farnesene (1.6-2.5%)
  • Geraniol (0-2.2%)
  • (E)-α-Bergamotene (0.9-1.9%)
  • Daucol (1.2-1.7%)
  • (−)-Limonene (0.4-1.5%)
  • β-Pinene (0.3-1.5%)
  • β-Myrcene (0.4-1.3%)
  • (Z)-α-Bergamotene (0-1.1%)
  • β-Selinene (0-1.1%)
• Contains a range of uncommon sesquiterpene components.
• Commercial carrot seed oil does not typically contain significant amounts of methyleugenol.

Therapeutic Action:

Carrot Seed EO is known to be:

• Antiparasitic: An agent that can destroy or inhibit the growth of parasites. It is a substance unfriendly to worms and parasites.
• Antiseptic: A substance that destroys or prevents the development of microbes. It is applied to a surface to kill or inhibit the growth of disease-causing microorganisms.
• Anti-inflammatory: A substance that reduces inflammation. It can alleviate inflammation in the body.
• Antifungal: An agent that prevents and combats fungal infections.
• Antibacterial: A substance that prevents the growth of or destroys bacteria.
• Antiviral: An agent that inhibits the growth of viruses.
• Antioxidant: A natural or synthetic substance that helps inhibit destructive oxygen- and free radical-induced deterioration (oxidation) of substances and tissues in the body. Essential oils are considered powerful antioxidants.
• Antitumoral: An agent that can destroy or inhibit the growth of tumors. It is also referred to as anticarcinogenic.
• Anticancer: An agent that is able to destroy or inhibit the growth of cancerous tumors.
• Carminative: An agent that prevents the formation of gas (flatulence) in the intestinal system and is typically used to relieve pain due to colic or cramping.
• Cytophylactic: An agent that encourages growth of skin cells. It also refers to the process of increasing the activity of leukocytes to defend the body against infection.
• Depurative: An agent that cleanses and purifies the blood. It is also known as a detoxifier.
• Diuretic: An agent that promotes the production of urine.
• Vasodilatory: An agent that causes dilation of blood vessels.
• Hepatic: An agent that stimulates and aids liver function. Some essential oils help to detoxify the liver.
• Smooth muscle relaxant: This is not explicitly defined but is closely related to antispasmodic activity. It is an agent that helps to relax muscle spasms.
• Regenerative: An agent that helps regenerate and repair tissue.
• Calmative: A substance that is sedative, helping to soothe and reduce agitation.
• Antispasmodic: An agent that prevents and eases spasms or convulsions.
• Sedative: An agent that reduces nervousness, distress, or agitation.
• Stimulant: An agent that stimulates the physiological functions of the body and increases blood circulation.
• Circulatory: An agent that promotes or improves blood flow and circulation.

Esoteric Uses/Action:

• Symbol of life and death.
• Associated with increasing longevity, courage, and purification.
• Increases spiritual awareness and focus for meditation, while clearing negative energy.
• Releases negative memories, fostering peace, well-being, and hope.
• Warming to the emotions and helps ease mental strain and fatigue, replenishing lost energy.
• Uplifts the spirit, fosters peace, and has an empowering and grounding fragrance.
• Helps with physical weakness and stress.
• May assist in coping with despair and mental fatigue.
• May help release emotional blocks and instill a positive outlook on life.

Astrological: N/A

Ayurvedic: N/A

Body Type: N/A

Chakras: Carrot seed essential oil can be applied to various chakra points, though the sources do not specifically name which chakras it is most aligned with.

• General Application: Essential oils can be applied directly to the chakras or along the side of the body to balance the energy centers. For example, applying one drop of Harmony to the chakras can help balance energy flow. Generally, essential oils are diluted with a carrier oil before topical application.
• Application on Specific Chakras:
  • Crown Chakra: 3 Wise Men is applied on the crown in a clockwise motion to open the chakra and stimulate the pineal gland.
  • Heart Chakra: Joy is applied over the heart in a clockwise motion to promote self-love and healing. Also, oils may be applied on the thymus (heart chakra). Forgiveness, Present Time and Surrender are also used in this area.
  • Navel: Forgiveness is applied clockwise on the navel, and oils can be applied to the navel (pancreas).
  • Solar Plexus: Cardamom can be applied to the solar plexus. Angelica Root can be applied to the solar plexus for sleep.
  • Third Eye: Acceptance is applied over the third eye (forehead).
• Base Chakra: Western or Canadian Red Cedar is applied to the pubic bone for the root chakra.
• Other Application Areas:
  • Forehead and Temples: Oils can be applied to the forehead and temples. Brain Power or Clarity are applied here for brain fog.
  • Vita Flex Points: Essential oils can be applied to Vita Flex points on the feet. Massage on the Vita Flex points of the feet and hands may help release memory trauma. Oils can also be applied to the heart Vita Flex points.
• Spine: Oils can be applied along the spine in a Raindrop Technique style. Also, oils can be massaged from the base of the skull down the neck and spine.
• Ears: Oils may be applied behind or on the edge of the ears. Oils for specific emotions can be layered on various points of the ears.
• Pulse Points: Applying oils on pulse points such as behind the ears, on the neck, temples, wrists, ankles, and over the heart can be effective.
• Throat: Oils may be applied to the base of the throat just above the clavicle notch.
• Specific Blends for Chakra Balance: Harmony is mentioned specifically for balancing the chakras and energy centers.

Character:

• Associated with life and death and the ability to choose between selflessness and egoism.
• Can promote empowerment and grounding, which can relieve anxiety and revitalize mind, body, and spirit.

Crystals: N/A

Element: N/A

Number: N/A

Chinese Medicine:

• May help build blood.
• May be helpful in detoxifying the body by drawing out inorganic toxins.

Fragrant Influence:

• Promotes health, well-being, purification, and healing.
• Camphoraceous, herbaceous, and similar to rosemary.
• Assists in calming the nerves.
• Uplifting and revitalizing to the mind, body, and spirit.

Note:  Middle note (50-80% of the blend).

Fragrant Intensity: 4

Blend Classification: Personifier and Modifier.

Scent: Sweet, spicy, balsamic with floral undertones, with a dry-woody and earthy undertone

Intensity: Moderate to Strong

Frequency: Vibrates at a high frequency.

Bible: Not specified in the sources.

Blends Well With:

Carrot seed essential oil is described as having an earthy, woody aroma.

Essential oils that blend well with it would include:

• Woody notes: Essential oils with woody notes can blend well with any oils, adding warmth and heart to a blend.
• Herbaceous notes: Carrot seed oil may also blend well with other herbaceous scents, due to its own aroma profile.
• Spicy notes: These can add an interesting note to any blend, but should be used sparingly (0.5 to 5%).
• Specific Oils That Blend Well With Carrot Seed Oil:
  • Clary sage: This oil is mentioned multiple times in various sources as blending well with a variety of oils. It has anti-inflammatory and calming properties and contains linalool, which is also a major component of lavender oil. It is used in a blend for muscle pain and also for stress and mood.
  • Geranium: Geranium is often listed in blends, including those for general limb massage, stress, and as a calming, soothing oil.
  • Lavender: Lavender is versatile and blends with many oils. It is also included in numerous blends for a variety of uses.
  • Lemon: Lemon is a versatile citrus oil. It is included in blends for concentration and memory and for calming and well-being.
  • Marjoram: Marjoram is noted as an oil that could be used to treat muscle pain, stress, and it is used in a general limb massage blend.
  • Myrrh: Myrrh is a base note that blends well with a variety of oils. It has anti-inflammatory properties and is included in a blend for joint and muscle pain.
  • Neroli: Neroli is a middle/heart note that is a versatile blender. It has a calming, uplifting scent and is useful for stress and anxiety.
  • Patchouli: Patchouli is a base note that has grounding and calming properties. It is suitable for dry skin and blends well with resins and florals.
  • Rose: Rose is mentioned in multiple blends. It blends well with neroli.
  • Sandalwood: Sandalwood is a base note that has calming properties. It blends well with a number of oils, and is included in a blend for stress.
  • Ylang Ylang: Ylang ylang is a middle/heart note that is used in blends for stress and mood and has calming properties. It blends well with resins and florals.
  • Frankincense: Frankincense blends well with many different oils, and is often used as a base note. It has calming and anti-inflammatory benefits.
• Other Notes:
  • Resins: Resins such as frankincense and myrrh may blend well with carrot seed oil.
• Florals: Floral scents such as rose, lavender, and ylang ylang may also blend well with carrot seed oil.
• Citrus: Citrus oils may blend with carrot seed. Lemon and orange are common citrus oils that may be worth experimenting with.
• Spices: A source indicates that spicy notes can add interest to blends. Clove and black pepper are two examples of spice oils that may complement carrot seed oil if used carefully.

Always start with small amounts, and dilute appropriately.

Indications:

• Skin conditions: Eczema, oily skin, psoriasis, wrinkles, acne, pimples, and ulcers
• Water retention.
• Liver problems.
• Kidney disorders.
• Digestive disorders and congestion, indigestion, diarrhea, flatulence, bloating, abdominal spasms and discomfort, and colic.
• Urinary tract infections.
• Arthritis/rheumatism.
• Nervous tension and stress.
• May support prostate health.
• Detoxifying the body and blood.
• May be helpful in cases of hepatitis.

Energetics:

• Emotional and Mental Well-being:
  • Helps release negative memories, fosters peace, well-being, and hope.
  • Eases nervous tension and stress, balances emotions.
  • Uplifts the spirit and fosters peace.
  • Has an empowering and grounding fragrance that can relieve anxiety and revitalize the mind, body, and spirit.
  • May help overcome insecurities, create a sense of well-being, and is stimulating and elevating to the mind.
  • May assist in coping with despair and mental fatigue.
  • May help release emotional blocks and instill a positive outlook on life.
• Energy and Vitality:
  • Helps to replenish lost energy.
  • Assists in increasing energy.
  • A powerful energizer and motivator, revitalizes and stimulates the nervous system.
  • Helps with physical weakness and stress.
  • Has been used to stimulate the adrenal glands.
  • Acts as a vasodilator, improving blood flow, which increases energy.
  • Increases cellular oxygenation, supporting energy production.
• Spiritual Awareness:
  • Increases spiritual awareness and focus for meditation, while clearing negative energy.
• Chakras and Vita Flex Points:
  • Can be applied to chakras and Vita Flex points to influence energy flow
  • Can be applied to the temples, wrists, throat, and face for energetic effects.
• Balancing Body Systems:
  • Acts as an adaptogen, supporting the body's ability to reach homeostasis.
  • Strengthens the endocrine system.
• Detoxification and Purification:
  • Acts as a depurative, helping to flush out toxins.
  • May detoxify cells and blood.
• Frequency and Vibration:
  • Vibrates at a high frequency, which is thought to be transferred to the body, increasing natural electromagnetic vibrations.

Personality Profile:

• May be helpful for those who seek balance between their ego and their ability to help others.
• May promote courage and purification.

Subtle Aromatherapy: N/A

Mode of Administration:

• Topical:
  • Apply diluted 1:1 or more with a carrier oil. Can be applied directly to the location, on chakras, or Vita Flex points. Can also be used for massage, compress, bath, and skin care.
• Inhalation:
  • Direct inhalation, diffuser, or oil vaporizer.
• Internally:
  • Can be taken as a dietary supplement.
  • Dilute one drop oil in 1 teaspoon honey or 4 oz of beverage.
  • Use with caution, in small amounts, and dilute before ingestion.
  • Can use 1-2 drops in a capsule.

Safety:

• General Safety:
  • Generally considered non-toxic, non-irritant, and non-sensitizing.
  • Has an acute oral LD50 in rats of > 5 g/kg and an acute dermal LD50 in rabbits of > 5 g/kg.
  • Not known to be phototoxic.
• Pregnancy: Best avoided during pregnancy due to potential antigestational and abortifacient effects.
• Breastfeeding: Best avoided while breastfeeding.
• Is it Kid Safe?: Use with caution and dilute well.
• Maximum Dilution: Dilute 1:1. Dilute 1 part essential oil with 1-4 parts of vegetable oil.
• Skin Sensitivity: Perform a patch test before widespread use; dilute before topical application.
• Eyes: Keep away from eyes.
• Internal Use: Use with caution, in small amounts, and dilute before ingestion.
• Epilepsy: Use caution due to potential ketone content.
• Surgery: Avoid oral use before or after major surgery.
• Hypersensitive Skin: Those with hypersensitive or diseased skin should use caution.
• Quality: Ensure the carrot seed oil is pure.
• Storage: Store oils in dark, airtight containers, in a refrigerator, and add an antioxidant to prevent oxidation.

Medication Interactions:

• Antidiabetic Medications: May interact with antidiabetic drugs, potentially affecting blood glucose levels.
• Anticoagulant Medications: May interact with anticoagulant medications, potentially inhibiting blood clotting. Avoid combining with medications like aspirin, heparin, or warfarin.
• Drugs metabolized by CYP2B6: May interact with drugs metabolized by CYP2B6 due to geraniol and citral content.
• MAO Inhibitors and SSRIs: Use caution with MAOIs or SSRIs due to similar constituents found in parsley seed oil.
• Transdermal Patches: Constituents like limonene and terpineol may increase absorption of drugs from patches.
• Other Medications: Consult with a healthcare professional before using if taking medications.

How to Use Carrot Seed Essential Oil

• Topical: Apply diluted with a carrier oil for skin conditions, massage, or bath.
• Inhalation: Diffuse or inhale directly for emotional and mental support.
• Internally: Dilute one drop in honey or beverage or take in a capsule to support liver and digestive function.
• Apply to the temples, wrists, throat, or face for energetic effects.
• Apply to chakras and Vita Flex points to influence energy flow.

Carrot Seed Essential Oil Recipes

Anti-Aging Face Serum 

This recipe is designed to help with mature, dry, or sun-damaged skin, using the regenerative and soothing properties of carrot seed oil.

Ingredients:

◦ 1 ounce (2 tablespoons or 30 ml) of a carrier oil such as jojoba or rosehip seed oil

◦ 5-6 drops carrot seed essential oil

◦ 2 drops frankincense essential oil (optional, for added anti-aging benefits)

◦ 1 drop geranium essential oil (optional, for added skin benefits)

◦ 1-2 drops Vitamin E oil (optional, as a preservative)

Instructions:

1. Combine the carrier oil and essential oils in a clean, dark glass bottle.

2. Gently shake to mix.

3. Apply a few drops to clean skin, morning and night.

Notes:

Carrot seed oil can be highly colored and can stain the body and clothes, so apply sparingly.

Body Oil for Dry Skin and Detoxification 

This recipe utilizes carrot seed oil's properties to support detoxification, and its soothing and regenerative effects.

Ingredients:

◦ 1 ounce (2 tablespoons or 30 ml) of a carrier oil such as sweet almond or apricot oil

◦ 15-30 drops carrot seed essential oil

◦ 5 drops juniper berry essential oil (optional, for added detoxification benefits)

◦ 5 drops lemon essential oil (optional, for added detox and scent)

Instructions:

1. Combine the carrier oil and essential oils in a clean glass bottle.

2. Gently shake to mix.

3. Massage into the skin after a shower or bath, focusing on areas of dryness or where you desire detoxification support.

Massage Oil for Muscle Aches and Discomfort 

This recipe blends carrot seed oil with other oils to target muscle aches and tension.

Ingredients:

◦ 1 ounce (2 tablespoons or 30 ml) of a carrier oil such as grapeseed or coconut oil

◦ 3 drops carrot seed essential oil

◦ 3 drops rosemary essential oil

◦ 3 drops ginger essential oil

◦ 2 drops clove essential oil

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a clean glass bottle.

2. Shake gently to combine.

3. Massage into sore muscles, avoiding broken skin.

Allergy Relief Diffuser Blend

This recipe combines the anti-inflammatory and calming properties of carrot seed, lavender, and chamomile oils for allergy relief.

Ingredients:

◦ 2 drops carrot seed essential oil

◦ 2 drops lavender essential oil

◦ 2 drops roman chamomile essential oil

Instructions:

1. Add the specified drops of essential oils to your diffuser.

2. Add water as required by your diffuser.

3. Allow to diffuse in the room for 25-30 minutes.

Simple Blend for Liver Support 

This recipe uses carrot seed oil's regenerative properties for the liver, along with a supporting oil.

Ingredients:

◦ 1 drop carrot seed essential oil

◦ 1 drop rosemary essential oil

• 1 teaspoon carrier oil such as coconut oil.

Instructions:

1. Apply topically over the liver area.

2. You can also put these oils in a capsule with 2-5 drops of V-6 oil and swallow.

Important Considerations:

Dilution: 

Always dilute essential oils in a carrier oil before topical application to avoid skin irritation. A good guideline is to use a 1-3% dilution for general use (about 6-18 drops of essential oil per ounce of carrier oil), and 5-20% for specific therapeutic applications.

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