Which statement about essential oil longevity is true?

Which statement about essential oil longevity is true?

• A. Most last less than a year.
• B. Longevity is at least 2 years.
• C. They last indefinitely.
• D. They must be refrigerated to last.

Answer: (B)

Storage stability of essential oils hinges on how quickly they oxidize and lose their volatile compounds, which is driven by light, heat, and air exposure. When kept in dark amber glass, tightly capped, and stored in a cool, dry place away from direct light, many oils retain their aroma and therapeutic properties for years. In practice, most common essential oils have a shelf life of at least two years, with longer life for many non-citrus oils and somewhat shorter life for citrus varieties. They do not last indefinitely; oxidation gradually reduces potency over time even under good storage. Refrigeration is not required for all oils and is not the standard requirement for longevity, though some practitioners refrigerate certain citrus oils or those with shorter shelf lives to extend them. Therefore, the statement that longevity is at least two years best describes typical stability when proper storage is used.

Storage stability of essential oils hinges on how quickly they oxidize and lose their volatile compounds, which is driven by light, heat, and air exposure. When kept in dark amber glass, tightly capped, and stored in a cool, dry place away from direct light, many oils retain their aroma and therapeutic properties for years. In practice, most common essential oils have a shelf life of at least two years, with longer life for many non-citrus oils and somewhat shorter life for citrus varieties. They do not last indefinitely; oxidation gradually reduces potency over time even under good storage. Refrigeration is not required for all oils and is not the standard requirement for longevity, though some practitioners refrigerate certain citrus oils or those with shorter shelf lives to extend them. Therefore, the statement that longevity is at least two years best describes typical stability when proper storage is used.