According to the present invention there is provided the use of one or more low aromatic or substantially low aromatic solvents as a carrier, for efficacious use within a preservative formulation for treating wood or other cellulosic species. The invention also provides for a wood preservative formulation comprising such a carrier. In an embodiment, the carrier is selected from the commercially-available range of Exxsol® D and Isopar® fluids.