Amber and cobalt-blue glass bottles are fairly common. Green and violet glass is also somewhat common. [2] X Research source These dark glasses will help reduce the risk of oxidation, but they will not eliminate that risk. Plastic, no matter what color it is, should generally be avoided. PET and HDPE plastics will not deteriorate from oil storage, but most other plastics are easily broken down by oil.
Choose solid screw-on caps. Only use rubber bulb applicators when you’re actually drawing out or applying the oil.
Don’t be alarmed if certain oils congeal or solidify at normal refrigerator temperatures. The quality will not be adversely affected, and the oil should return to its liquid state after being removed from the refrigerator. Try to take oils out of the refrigerator approximately 12 hours before you’ll be using them. This should be an adequate amount of time for the oils to return to room temperature. Do not put oils in the freezer, as freezing may damage the oil and diminish its quality. [7] X Research source
Blended oils should typically be used within four to six months. Oils that are diluted with distilled water should ideally be used within two weeks. Citrus oils are typically somewhat short-lived. Try to use citrus oils within six to nine months, if possible. [13] X Research source Monoterpene-rich oils, Aldehyde-rich oils, and Ester-rich oils have a shelf life of one to three years. Oxide-rich oils generally last between one to four years. Monoterpenol-rich oils, Ketone-rich oils, and Phenol-rich oils usually last three to five years. Sesquiterpene-rich oils and Sesquiterpenol-rich oils have a shelf life of six to eight years, with some oils lasting even longer if properly stored.
Most quality essential oils will display the Latin name of that oil’s plants on the label. Pure essential oils should be labeled as such, though there’s no guarantee that labels won’t mislead consumers. If the label says “pure essential oil” or “100% essential oil,” though, there’s a good chance it’s a higher quality oil. Avoid any oils labeled as “fragrant oil” or “potpourri oil,” as these are most likely synthetic. Synthetic oils may smell like essential oils, but they may cause allergic reactions and will not provide any therapeutic effects.
