Yes, you have read it right!
Essential and Carrier Oils have a shelf life no matter what brand you purchase. Carrier Oils that are high in unsaturated fatty acid content will have a shorter shelf life of approximately six months to a year. Carrier Oils can be stored in the fridge to extend their shelf life. Most Essential Oils have a shelf life of 2 – 4 years.
Essential oils don’t expire in the same way as food but they do go through a process of oxidation that begins as soon as the bottle is opened and the oil is exposed to oxygen in the air. When oils come into contact with oxygen, ultraviolet light, and heat, their composition begins to change and they lose their strength and effectiveness.
The good news is that one can slow down the rate of oxidation and extend the life of the oil by keeping them sealed until they are ready to be used. Keep the oils away from direct sunlight or heated areas, avoid leaving the cap off the bottle for lengthy periods of time, and always ensure the cap is placed back tightly on the bottle.
Listed below is an estimated shelf life for a few popular oils.
1 year = Lemon, Orange, Almond Sweet (Carrier Oil), Rosehip (Carrier Oil), Grapeseed (Carrier Oil), Castor (Carrier Oil)
2 years = Frankincense, Bergamot, Eucalyptus, Black pepper, Jojoba (Carrier Oil)
3 years = Rosemary, Lemongrass, Tea tree
4 years = Chamomile, Lavender, Peppermint, Ylang Ylang, Citronelle,
5+ years = Cedarwood, Ginger, Patchouli, Geranium, Sage, Ylang Ylang
TIP: Once you break the seal on your Essential Oil bottle write the date you opened the bottle on the label.