Purging the oxygen from an EO bottle’s headspace (the area between the cap and the oil) is a crucial step in preserving the integrity of the oil. This prevents oxygen-driven degradation.
Our oils come with a protective barrier of inert gas, like argon or nitrogen. Once a jar has been opened, that protective barrier disperses and gets replaced with oxygen-rich air. That’s a problem because essential oils contain hundreds of compounds that are sensitive to light, heat and oxygen. When you purge the headspace, you limit the rate at which oxygen-driven degradation occurs.
Depending on the volume of essential oil being stored, you can readily find handheld canisters of argon online.
Simply:
1. Pour out what you need.
2. Purge the air out of your container with argon. About 2 seconds should be enough.
3. Preserve by capping the bottle and storing it properly.
For larger operations where bulk gas is more appropriate, customers can connect through national companies like AirGas or Linde. Food Grade Purity (98%+) Nitrogen or Argon will do the job perfectly. Other tools you’ll need:
• Pressure Regulator
• Adapter
• Tubing
There are many regulators, tubing sizes and material that can be used. Tubing only needs to fit in the container opening; it does not have to touch the oil. Remember to secure cylinders upright with a chain or strap in a dry, ventilated place that’s away from combustible materials. Once your purging station is set, the same steps apply:
1. Pour out what you need.
2. Purge the air out of your container with argon. About 2 seconds should be enough.
3. Preserve by capping the bottle and storing it properly.