Essential Oils 101: Know How Are They Made & How To Store Them

Essential oils are completely made from natural ingredients, like lavender, rosemary, tea tree, and more. Those who have been using them regularly or are looking forward to regular use must know that it takes a real deal of time and effort to produce pure, authentic ones. 

Given their tremendous benefits across aromatherapy, skincare, and treatment of ailments, their demand is on the rise. Thus, if you want to buy essential oils, it will be intriguing to know how they are made and how to store them for extended shelf life.

Creation of Magical Elixirs: 5 Methods of Making Essential Oils 

Before you buy essential oils, know about how they are made, as it will give you a better insight into their value for money offerings. Thus, here are the different methods used in making essential oils:

• Steam Distillation

This is the primary and the most authentic way of making essential oils, as it retains their therapeutic properties despite the use of direct heat. In this method, the plant materials, i.e., flowers, herbs, bark, roots, etc., are passed through steam, which helps release essential oils from the natural ingredients. Initially, the oils are in vapour form, which are then rinsed and passed through a cooling system, condensing them into liquid. This method is mainly used to extract the purest essential oils from natural elements, except citrus-based plants.

• Cold Pressed Extraction

Commonly used for the extraction of essential oils from citrus fruits, this method involves putting pressure on the outer skin of the fruit. After grinding the peel with appropriate pressure, it starts excreting a liquid. This liquid is then put into a centrifuge so that oil can be separated from it. This method has to be quick so that oxidation can be avoided, resulting in premium-quality essential oils.

• Solvent Extraction

This method of making essential oils involves soaking the natural ingredients in a solvent to draw the fragrance out in the form of a liquid. This liquid is called ‘absolute.’ However, it is in a mixture form. The mixture is processed many times so that the absolute can be separated from the solvent. This method of extraction is usually used for fragile natural ingredients like flowers.

• CO2 Extraction

Under this method, carbon dioxide is used as a solvent to extract essential oils from natural elements. Here, the CO2(carbon dioxide) is made to reach a certain temperature, where it is believed to enter into a supercritical stage, i.e. somewhere between gas and liquid form. Further, the temperature of the carbon dioxide is manipulated to bring it back to the gaseous form, where it breaks down completely, leaving behind an essential oil-like compound. 

• Enfleurage

Although this method isn’t commercially viable today, many modern processes take inspiration from this ancient essential oil extraction method. It involves harvesting specific flowers and a complex system of exposing them to diverse oils for days on end. It results in a thick mixture called pomade, which is further either heated or exposed to alcohol. It results in an aromatic essential oil formation.

4 Essential Tips to Store Essential Oils

The moment you buy essential oils, you must also think about their appropriate storage. It will ensure their longevity and will require fewer replacements:

• Store them in a Refrigerator

Essential oils require a consistent climate to remain fresh and in pristine condition. Your refrigerator is a place where the temperature stays maintained, be it day or night. Thus, it helps preserve the essential oils. However, when you want to use them, remove them from the refrigerator one to two hours before actual use.

• Store in Dark Bottles and Away From Sunlight

Essential oils are powerful concoctions but feature a delicate composition. Thus, storing them in dark bottles means keeping them away from light. It helps preserve their quality. Hence, it is recommended to store the essential oils in dark or opaque bottles. Also, do not expose them to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures as it will break their molecular structure, degrading their potency.

• Close the Lids Tight

When you use essential oils, ensure that you close their lids tight. It helps prevent air oxidation and does not allow air or moisture to enter the bottle. Lesser contact with air helps retain the properties of the essential oils. However, frequent exposure can lead to changes in the consistency, properties, and smell of the oils. Also, when you buy essential oils, ensure the lids of the bottles are sealed and have no loose gaps for external elements to enter.

• Regularly Monitor When Stored for a Long Time

Essential oils can seamlessly last for longer years. However, keep monitoring them regularly for signs of deterioration, like a change in smell, which may indicate immediate replacement. Thus, when you buy essential oils, determine your intended use and opt for quantity accordingly.

Conclusion

Understanding the various methods of making essential oils helps you appreciate their qualities. It makes you aware of their potential to bring wellness and why they are valued at a certain price point. These elixirs, however are delicate and thus need to be stored appropriately. You can thus use the tips mentioned above for ideal essential oil storage. So, take a step forward in cohesive well-being and buy best essential oils today!