Essential oils have become a standby in many modern medicine cabinets—but how long do they really last? And more importantly, how can we make them last longer? To find out, we consulted founder of The Artistry of Essential Oils, Valencia McClure, for expert tips on how to get the most out of our favorite scents.
Generally speaking, all of your essential oils should last at least a year if stored properly, but some have a shelf life of up to six years. It depends on the type of oil, how it's stored, and the speed of the oxidation process. "Once you open an essential oil bottle," McClure says, "oxidation begins to occur due to the oil coming in contact with oxygen." Glass Containers For Essential Oils
On average, "the shelf life for essential oils is two to three years," she says. "Citrus oils such as lemon, sweet orange, and lime are a bit shorter, about one to two years."
"Oils such as Australian sandalwood, vetiver, and patchouli," she adds, "have a much longer shelf life—up to six years."
If you have a feeling some of your oils may have gone rancid, do some quick searching to find out what the average shelf life is for the specific oil. You can also take note of how the oil smells: If it doesn't smell as strong (or even as good) as when you first got it, it could be on its way out. Additionally, certain oils will begin to separate, causing them to look murky as time goes on and they oxidize.
This is why it's important to note the appearance of your oils when you first get them, along with their scent.
From bug bites to stress relief, there's no shortage of ways to incorporate essential oils into your well-being routine. And given how long they can last, they're a wonderfully affordable way to offer yourself some TLC. Be sure to store them properly so you can enjoy your favorite oils for years to come.
Sarah Regan is a Spirituality & Relationships Editor, a registered yoga instructor, and an avid astrologer and tarot reader. She received her bachelor's in broadcasting and mass communication from State University of New York at Oswego, and lives in Buffalo, New York.
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