Does Castor Oil Expire? How to Keep it Fresh For Longer

Castor oil is one of those natural remedies that many of us have tucked away at home—maybe even that trusty bottle your grandma swore by! It’s beloved for its many uses in skincare, haircare, and overall wellness. But like all natural oils, castor oil doesn’t last forever. 

Castor oil is pretty stable compared to other natural oils, thanks to a unique molecule called ricinoleic acid that acts like a natural preservative. When unopened and stored right, IAMA cold pressed castor oil can last up to five years! 

Why Our Plant-Based Infusions Are Best Used Within a Month

Our plant-based infusions, like the rose and rosemary varieties, are crafted using fresh, natural ingredients to give you the most vibrant and effective experience. Because these infusions contain delicate botanicals and essential oils straight from nature, they don’t have the same long shelf life as pure oils. To ensure you enjoy their full potency, fragrance, and skin-loving benefits, we recommend using them within one month of opening.

Using them fresh means you’re getting the maximum nourishment and therapeutic properties these plants offer—whether it’s the soothing, calming essence of rose or the invigorating, revitalizing power of rosemary. After a month, the freshness and effectiveness can start to fade, so for the best results, treat yourself to a fresh bottle regularly!

What Can Make Your Castor Oil Go Bad Faster?

• Light Exposure: Sunlight’s UV rays can mess with castor oil’s molecular structure, causing it to break down quicker—especially if it’s in a plastic bottle.
• Air Exposure: Every time you open the bottle, oxygen starts a slow process called oxidation, breaking down the oil’s fatty acids and eventually making it go rancid.
• Warm Temperatures: Heat is castor oil’s enemy. Storing it near a stove, heater, or in direct sunlight can seriously shorten its lifespan. Aim for a cool, dark spot—especially if you live somewhere warm.
• Purity and Processing: The way castor oil is made matters. Cold-pressed oils, like the ones from iAMA, keep more natural antioxidants that help protect the oil longer. Refined oils, on the other hand, lose some of these protective compounds and don’t last as long.
  

How Can You Tell If Your Castor Oil Has Expired?

• It Smells Off: Fresh castor oil has a mild, earthy scent. If your oil smells sour, musty, or unusually strong, it’s a sign it’s gone rancid.
• The Color Changes: Castor oil is usually pale yellow. If it darkens or looks cloudy, it’s breaking down.
• The Texture Feels Different: Castor oil should be thick and smooth. If it’s clumpy or separates into layers, it’s time to toss it.
• It Irritates Your Skin: If you notice redness, itching, or irritation after applying castor oil—even if you’ve used it before without issue—your oil might have gone bad.
  
  

Tips to Help Your Castor Oil Last Longer

• Store It Cool and Dark: Keep your castor oil in a cupboard or pantry away from heat and sunlight. Ideally, it should be between 50-70°F (10-21°C).
• Choose Glass Over Plastic: Glass bottles protect the oil better because they don’t react with the contents like plastic can. Plus, plastic can leach chemicals over time. (Want to know why glass is best? Check out our blog!)
• Seal It Tight: After each use, make sure the bottle is closed tightly to keep air out and slow down oxidation.