Which Essential Oils Generally Have A Shelf Life Of 1 2 Years?

Essential oils are highly concentrated extracts derived from the roots, leaves, seeds, or flowers of plants. They are made through distillation or cold pressing and contain the natural oils, flavors, and scents of the plant source. Essential oils have been used in aromatherapy, natural medicine, and personal care for centuries. Today, essential oils remain extremely popular due to their therapeutic benefits and aromatic properties. Some of the most common essential oils used include lavender, peppermint, eucalyptus, tea tree, lemon, and orange. Essential oils are added to diffusers for aromatic benefits, used topically for skin and hair care, or taken internally in some cases for potential health benefits.

Shelf Life

Most essential oils have a shelf life of around 1-2 years if stored properly, although some may last a bit longer and others a bit less (1). The shelf life depends on how the oils are stored and the compounds that make up the oil. Essential oils are very volatile, meaning they evaporate quickly, so keeping them in dark glass bottles with tight lids will help extend their shelf life. Oils that contain high amounts of phenols, like clove or oregano, tend to have a shorter shelf life of around 1 year. Citrus oils that contain limonene also tend to expire more quickly. However, more stable oils like lavender, tea tree, and frankincense can often last 2+ years before expiring (2). Proper storage is key for getting the longest shelf life out of essential oils.

Storage

Essential oils must be stored properly to maintain their freshness and potency. According to OIL LIFE, the ideal storage method is to keep essential oils in dark glass bottles, away from light and heat.

Exposure to light, especially sunlight, can cause the oils to oxidize and lose their therapeutic benefits more quickly. Heat can also degrade the quality of the oils. Dark glass blocks UV rays that damage the oils. Cool, dark places like cabinets, drawers, or boxes are recommended for storage.

Special organizers and racks designed for essential oil bottles can neatly organize a collection while keeping the bottles shielded from light. OIL LIFE offers a variety of essential oil storage and display options made of high-quality materials like wood, acrylic, and steel [1].

Signs of Expiration

There are a few key signs that an essential oil may be past its prime and expired. The most notable signs are changes in color, scent, and consistency.

Many essential oils have characteristic colors. For example, lemon oil is a pale yellow while peppermint oil is clear. If the oil’s color starts to darken or become cloudy, this is a red flag that the oil is oxidizing and expiring (1).

The aroma of an essential oil is very telling. If the smell is off or lacking potency, the oil is likely expired. The scent should be vivid, characteristic, and potent when you first open the bottle (2). A faded, musty smell indicates it’s time to discard.

Consistency is another indicator. Oils are generally thin liquids, though some have natural viscosity. If an oil seems thicker, stickier, or has sediment, this suggests deterioration. Separating into layers also shows the chemical breakdown of an expired oil (1).

Watch for these changes in essential oils within 1-2 years to determine if they are still good or need replacing. Changes signal degradation and loss of therapeutic benefit.

Citrus Oils

Citrus oils generally have a shorter shelf life of around 6-12 months due to their volatile aromatic compounds. Oils like lemon, grapefruit, orange, bergamot, and lime contain delicate monoterpenes that deteriorate more rapidly through oxidization when exposed to light, heat, and air. Citrus oils should be stored in a cool, dark place to maximize their shelf life, but still only last about 6-12 months (source).

Signs that a citrus oil has expired include a loss of aroma, diminished therapeutic benefits, discoloration, and separation in the bottle. Cloudiness or fading are also indicators. While citrus oils may still be usable after 12 months, their potency and quality decline over time. Using old citrus oils may lead to skin irritation or other undesired effects.

Some exceptions are bergamot and mandarin, which can last around 2-3 years due to their sesquiterpene content. However, most standard citrus essential oils have a shelf life of about 6-12 months when stored properly (source).

Pregnancy

Using expired essential oils during pregnancy can be risky for both the mother and the developing baby. Some essential oils are not recommended for use during pregnancy, like peppermint, rosemary, and wintergreen. Using expired versions of these oils could potentially be more dangerous as the chemical composition may have changed over time.

Certain essential oil compounds like methyl salicylate, found in wintergreen and sweet birch oils, may have higher concentrations in an expired oil. Methyl salicylate can negatively impact the uterus and increase bleeding risk when used during pregnancy.

Other essential oils like clary sage and rose should be avoided in early pregnancy as they may stimulate uterine contractions. Using expired versions could make this effect even more pronounced.

Before using any essential oil when pregnant, it’s critical to consult your doctor and only use high-quality, non-expired oils from reputable brands. Pay close attention to expiration dates, proper storage, and signs of oxidation. When in doubt, avoid using the oil.

Sources:

https://www.thebump.com/a/essential-oils-for-pregnancy-basics

https://www.morelandobgyn.com/blog/essential-oils-and-pregnancy-safety

Skin Irritation

Using rancid oils can cause irritation or allergic reactions. Oils that have gone rancid contain free radicals and peroxides that can damage skin cells (https://essentialapothecaryshop.com/blogs/blog/rancid-oil). When applied to the skin, rancid oils may cause redness, itching, burning, rashes, and other unwanted effects.

The chemical changes that happen when an oil goes rancid make it more likely to cause sensitivity reactions. Even if you have used a fresh oil without problems in the past, that same oil may irritate your skin after it has expired and oxidized. Pay attention to any skin changes when using oils that may be old or expired.

Rancidity ruins the chemical structure of essential oils, making them more likely to provoke allergic reactions. Certain compounds like limonene oxidize into allergenic substances during the rancidification process. If you experience hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing when using an expired oil, seek medical attention immediately.

Exceptions

While most essential oils have a shelf life of 1-2 years, there are some exceptions. According to this Young Living blog post and Aromatics International, oils like frankincense can last much longer, up to 4 years. Frankincense oil contains high levels of sesquiterpenes, which makes it more resistant to oxidation. Its chemical composition allows it to remain stable for a longer period.

Other oils that may last longer than the typical 1-2 years include sandalwood (4 years), patchouli (4 years), and myrrh (up to 8 years). However, proper storage conditions are still important for maximizing shelf life even with these more durable oils.

Extending Shelf Life

There are a few tips for extending the shelf life of your essential oils:

• Store oils in dark glass bottles out of direct sunlight and away from heat to help preserve the aromatic compounds. Citrus oils in particular are sensitive to light exposure. Keeping them in the refrigerator can extend shelf life by a year or more (https://www.youngliving.com/blog/do-essential-oils-expire-oxidation/).
• Add a few drops of vitamin E oil to help stabilize the aromatic compounds and act as an antioxidant. Make sure to add vitamin E to a small bottle to test first before adding to your whole supply.
• Freeze extra bottles of more delicate citrus oils or oils you won’t be using often. Just make sure to allow the oil to reach room temperature before opening to avoid condensation.

With proper storage techniques, most essential oils can last 1-2 years or longer before their aroma and benefits start fading. Pay attention for any change in smell, texture or appearance as signs the oil may be expiring.

When in Doubt

Even if an essential oil seems to be within its expiration date, it’s a good idea to regularly test oils for freshness. Some signs an oil may be oxidized or expired include change in color, lessened aroma, thick or gummy texture, and skin irritation when applied topically (Healthline, 2022).

The best way to test an oil is through an oxidation test. Place a drop of oil on a piece of paper or cloth and observe it over 24 hours. A fresh oil will fully absorb without leaving an oily ring. An oxidized oil will leave a ring or spot behind (Rocky Mountain Oils, 2023).

If you suspect an oil is expired or oxidized, it’s best to replace it. Using oxidized oils, especially on skin, can cause irritation. Oxidized oils also lose therapeutic benefits. Check expiration dates before buying and store properly once opened. When in doubt, trust your senses – if an oil seems off, replace it (AromaHead, 2021).