Purchase of essential oils
In order to benefit from the healing properties of the oils, it is vital to purchase them from a reputable supplier who takes cure to ensure high standards. Before accepting a batch, a sample will have been tested, using gas chromatography, to see whether the characteristic 'signature' of the pure essential oil is evident.
The word 'natural' on a bottle's label does not always guarantee purity. It is sensible to check that the description states 'pure essential oil'. Buy the oils in small quantities as you need them, replacing them as required.
Storage - How to care for the essential oils
Keep the essential oils in dark glass bottles in which they are supplied. Blends may be kept in similar bottles, (12-20mls is a good size). These may be obtained from a chemist for a reasonable cost. Plastic containers are not suitable for storage. The oils are very powerful and will damage them. Make sure the top of the bottle is always securely shut, as the essential oils are very volatile. Store them in a cool environment away from direct light. Always ensure that they are out of reach of inquisitive children.
Storage - How long will they last?
Most essential oils will keep for up to two years. In particular Citrus oils such as Orange and Grapefruit may only be effectively used for up to six months. Then they will go cloudy through oxidation. On the other hand there are a few essential oils which improve with age, rather like some good wines. These are often the oils which originate from plants which have taken a long time to mature, e.g. Sandalwood essential oil and Frankincense. There is even a market for vintage Frankincense! Blended oils remain effective for up to three months if stored in a cool place such as a
refridgerator.
Purchase of base oils
It is important that high quality base oils be chosen with the essential oils. Extra virgin cold pressed oils should be used. These come from the first pressing. Later extractions use heat or solvent processes which destroy the trace minerals and vitamins found in the oils. Similarly avoid mineral and baby oils. Sweet almond is a popular and excellent choice for a base oil. Almond oil diluted with 10% of Avocado or Wheatgerm (unless the user is allergic to wheat) is good for people with particularly dry skin. Other carrier oils include Grapeseed, Apricot Kernel, Peach Kernel, Olive, Soya, Sunflower Seed and Sesame Seed. jojoba, which is a wax, may also be included in a blend.
(2 Votes)
Add this page to your favorite Social Bookmarking websites
