Blending Basics

Essential oils can be categorized into broad groups based on their aromas. An example categorical system is as follows:

Floral
(i.e. Lavender, Neroli, Jasmine)
Woodsy
(i.e. Pine, Cedar)
Earthy
(i.e. Oakmoss, Vetiver, Patchouli)
Herbaceous
(i.e. Marjoram, Rosemary, Basil)
Minty
(i.e. Peppermint, Spearmint)
Medicinal/Camphorous
(i.e. Eucalyptus, Cajuput, Tea Tree)
Spicy
(i.e. Nutmeg, Clove, Cinnamon)
Oriental
(i.e. Ginger, Patchouli)
Citrus
(i.e. Orange, Lemon, Lime)
Oils in the same category generally blend well together. I hesitate specifying that particular categories blend well with other specific categories because it can limit your creativity and experimentation. Additionally, there are always exceptions. But to get you started, below are some categories that generally blend well together:

Florals blend well with spicy, citrusy and woodsy oils.
Woodsy oils generally blend well with all categories.
Spicy and oriental oils blend well with florals, oriental and citrus oils. Be careful not to overpower the blend with the spicy or oriental oils.
Minty oils blend well with citrus, woodsy, herbaceous and earthy oils.