How to Store Essential Oils Used in Aromatherapy

Essential oils, used in aromatherapy, have provided many useful health benefits to Americans, both young and old. To obtain optimal results, using the most pure essential oils is always recommended. While essential oils can be expensive, learning to properly store and use them will provide for the most optimal therapeutic benefits and longest shelf life.

Using our most basic and simple sensory system, in the sense of smell, many American families are imposing essential oils as an aromatherapy and basis for achieving certain physiological and emotional responses in the home, especially to regulate, to some extent, the emotions and activities of children. From essential lemon oil, commonly used as a stimulant and promoting cognitive functioning, to lavender, commonly used to relax the nerves and promote sleep, essential oils are a key home based product in alternative medicine, promoting health through natural methods.

Because essential oils are damaged easily by sunlight, it is best to purchase only those which are stored in dark colored glass bottles which should include a tightly closed lid with dropper for ease of use. Additionally, the essential oil, as a pure natural extract from a plant or flower, should be stored in the refrigerator, or in a dark cook place, to provide for the maximum shelf life and maximize the therapeutic benefit. By following these simple recommendations, most essential oils will remain effective for up to two years except for citrus based essential oils which generally last 12 months.

To dispense and disperse essential oils throughout the home, there are a variety of new methods on the market. One of the most popular, and latest developments, involves the use of a light bulb ring. Made from ceramic, this ring allows for a cavity in which essential oil, about four to six drops, can be placed for use. As the light bulb warms the ceramic, the essential oils are activated and released throughout the home.

While candles also remain a common method for acquiring and dispersing essential oils through the home, many homes are also filled with ceramic vaporizers which can be plugged into and electrical outlet for continuous release of essential oils into the interior atmosphere of the home. Many air freshener manufacturers supply essential oil dispensers; Glade and Renuzit are just a few.

Rather than purchasing expensive essential oils in the market, consider making your own. Using a food processor, essential oils can be extracted from an oil peel, although in limited quantity. Released lemon drops can be stored in an airtight, dark colored, glass vial for use in your own home ceramic dispensers. In fact, using lemon oil in the home will restore a sense of vitality in the home. The key, to successful to longevity of essential oils, whether homemade or store bought, is to practice these simple techniques in storage and preservation of the essential oil.