A common question that always gets asked is... How long do Essential Oils last??
So, like many natural products, essential oils can have a "shelf life". While they don't necessarily "go bad" like food, they can lose their potency over time. The shelf life of an essential oil can vary depending on the type of oil (which I will go more in depth about) and how they are stored...
Storage:
To ensure that your essential oils remain fresh and effective for as long as possible, it's important to store them properly. Keeping them in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat can help preserve their potency. Additionally, sealing the bottles tightly when not in use can prevent oxidation and evaporation. When essential oils oxidize, it means that they have undergone a chemical reaction with oxygen, causing them to lose their potency and therapeutic properties. This can happen when essential oils are exposed to air, light, or heat for extended periods of time. Oxidation can result in a change in colour, consistency, and aroma of the essential oil. To prevent oxidation, it is important to store essential oils properly like mentioned above - in dark glass bottles, in a cool and dark place, and TIGHTLY close the lid after each use. This will help to prolong the life and effectiveness of your essential oils.
If you do happen to notice that your essential oils have changed in colour, consistency, or smell, it may be time to replace them. Using expired essential oils may not only be less effective but could also potentially cause skin irritation or other adverse reactions and should also never be used on children as they are so much more sensitive than adults.
Oil Types:
Essential oil pioneer and world-renowned expert Robert Tisserand recommends the shelf life for your essential oils are...
1-2 years: For essential oils high in monoterpenes (90%) like citrus, neroli, and lemongrass have a short shelf life due to oxidation. Oils with 80%+ monoterpenes like frankincense, pine, and spruce can also degrade quickly.
2-3 Years: The majority of other essential oils, for example oils with a higher concentration of aldehydes (Citronella, Lemon Eucalyptus, Lemongrass, May Chang, Melissa) oxides (Germain Chamomile, Marjoram, Niaouli, Ravensara, Rosemary), esters (Birch, Wintergreen, Roman Chamomile, Clary Sage), ethers Basil), phenols (Oregano, Clove, Thyme), or ketones (Aniseed, Sage, Fennel, Peppermint, Spearmint)
4-8 Years: Sandalwood, Vetiver, Patchouli Essential oils with a high content of sesquiterpenes and/or sesquiterpenols tend to have a longer shelf life. While the aroma of these oils may improve with time, their therapeutic properties may decrease. For optimal therapeutic benefits, it is advisable to use them within 4 years. Other oils rich in sesquiterpenes and/or sesquiterpenols include Copaiba and Myrrh. Certain Cedarwood distillations also have elevated sesquiterpene levels.
How long can essential oils that have been diluted last?
Once an essential oil is mixed with a carrier oil, the shelf life depends on these 3 factors:
1.The remaining shelf life of the carrier oil(s) used in the blend.
2.The cleanliness of the bottle and equipment used for mixing.
3.The storage conditions of the diluted essential oil.
When mixing an essential oil with a longer shelf life than say a carrier oil that only has one year left, it is safest to say that the diluted blend will also only have a shelf life of one year. The issue arises from carrier oils, also called vegetable oils, which can spoil and are prone to microbial growth if exposed to water or debris. It cannot be assumed that essential oils will preserve the carrier oil or prolong its shelf life.
Pre-diluted essential oils are typically offered for the more costly essential oils such as Jasmine or Rose oils. Pre-diluted allows us to be able to use and enjoy rare essential oils that we may not otherwise be able to afford. Often the carrier oil of choice in these are either Jojoba or Fractionated Coconut Oil because both are very stable carrier oils with a long shelf life.
Pre-diluted blends and single oil roll-ons are a great convenient way to apply your oils topically, but while individual essential oils and carrier oils may last longer, the roll-on's contact with our skin can introduce our skins natural oils and possible other matter into the bottle, reducing its shelf life. For optimal freshness and hygiene, it is recommended to use the product within 3-6 months and then replacing it.
So, in conclusion, while essential oils do have a shelf life, proper storage and regular checks can help you get the most out of your oils. By knowing how to care for your essential oils, you can continue to enjoy their benefits for a long while.
I hope you've enjoyed this month's blog and if you have any further questions or quires please reach out as I'm more than happy to help 😊