Why should essential oils be kept in tightly sealed containers?

Essential oils should be kept in tightly sealed containers primarily to maintain their integrity and effectiveness. When essential oils are stored in containers that are not well-sealed, several issues can arise.

First, essential oils are volatile compounds, meaning they can easily evaporate if exposed to air. This evaporation can alter the concentration and chemical composition of the oils, diminishing their therapeutic properties and effectiveness over time. Keeping them tightly sealed minimizes exposure to air, thus preserving their potency.

Second, the fragrance of essential oils can fade or deteriorate when they are exposed to environmental factors such as air, light, and temperature fluctuations. A tightly sealed container helps to maintain the strength and quality of the fragrance.

Finally, contamination is a significant concern for essential oils. If the container is not sealed properly, dust, moisture, or other substances can enter, potentially compromising the purity of the oil. This contamination can lead to adverse reactions when the oils are used for therapeutic purposes.

Therefore, the necessity of tightly sealed containers encompasses all the reasons stated: prevention of evaporation, maintenance of fragrance, and protection from contamination, making the response comprehensive and correct.