I’m sure you would have heard of essential oils from your friends or seen ads on social media. If you are an avid user, essential oils will be like one of your clothing garment. The day might feel incomplete without a whiff of them. Essential oils are one of the greatest treasure discovered that brings healing to mind, body and soul. They are sold literally everywhere in the world.
Essential oils are different from fixed oils such as Argan Oil or Sweet Almond oil although both of them are referred to as oils. Essential oil is oil soluble and it is very potent. It should not be applied directly to the skin as it can cause skin irritation. Depending on certain types of essential oil, it can cause burns on the skin as well. The severity of the burn can be heightened when exposed to sun.
As potent as they are, they are volatile as well. This means they are sensitive to oxygen, heat and light. Essential oils tend to degrade when they are exposed to the 3 elements. The degree of degradation that happens will depend on the length of exposure. They do have a shelf life and do have expiry dates. I would encourage you to open up your stash of essential oils and start using them up!
Essential oils are usually sold in small bottles of 5ml or 10ml. They are easy to carry and stored away for personal uses. They can be easily used up within a month to three months depending on the frequency and amount used. However if you are someone who uses them in larger quantities, you may be purchasing them in bigger bottles such as 100ml or some may be even up to 1 litre. This is where the level of essential oils in the bottle must be checked regularly.
In a big bottle, take for example 100ml, once the level reaches half the bottle, there is a headspace of the other empty half which is filled with oxygen. This exposure in the bottle is one that we usually overlook. If the remainder of the oils are used up say within the week, it is fine to leave it as is.
Do you realize that all essential oils come in amber coloured bottle packaging? Dark coloured bottles are known for its ability to reduce the amount of light exposure especially from the sun. In addition, storage of the essential oils at where you are plays an equally important role. Keep them safely in closed cupboards or in small boxes with lid or portable carriers with compartments that are made from fabric and sponges.
I live in a tropical climate country which means most days are hot and humid during the day. Personally I have a dedicated small fridge to keep my essential oils in and this helps to maximize their life span. This is not a must for you to do as long as you can find whichever way that works for you.
Let me know if you want to know more about essential oil storage by commenting below š
Take care, Eliza
