Ozonated Oils and High Temperatures

As temperatures begin to rise this time of year - at least for our friends in the Northern Hemisphere - we are more frequently asked the following question: “My oils arrived in a liquid state! Does this mean my oils are bad?” This is definitely a valid question. While a logical assumption, the purpose of this post is to dispel this common misconception.

Let’s begin with where this misconception is likely rooted: the simple fact that ozone gas (O3) itself has a short half-life at room temperature already, in conjunction with the assumption that ozone gas bubbles are held in suspension when bubbled in oil. Again, while these are logical assumptions, there is actually a different process in play when ozonating an oil. Thankfully, this process makes the oils not only much more stable than ozone gas but also allows them to withstand the higher temperatures we see in the late spring and summer months.

As for the process itself, when ozone gas is introduced (often referred to as bubbling) to a base oil, the ozone gas is such a potent oxidizer that it reacts with the naturally-occurring fatty acids in the oil. This reaction changes the O3 molecule to form new compounds: primary compounds called ozonides, with secondary compounds called peroxides also present. The ozonides are very structurally similar to ozone and therefore mimic much of what ozone does; however, this technically is not ozone and by definition any true ozonated oil does not contain ozone!

While some might be disappointed to learn ozonated oils do not actually contain ozone, this reaction is actually incredibly beneficial. The compounds produced are infinitely more stable than the predecessor. This essentially means we’re able to keep the antimicrobial and oxygenating benefits of ozone in a product that can withstand much higher temperatures with an inherently longer shelf life. To touch on the stability of ozonated oils, independent research has shown that degradation and loss of efficacy do not occur unless the product is kept in conditions of sustained high temperatures (>130°F) and in the presence of UV light. These two factors must be met to degrade the bonds formed during the reaction, and until these conditions are met the oil’s integrity is maintained.

So fear not! Even if your oils arrive in a liquid state they will be just as effective. While some of our customers prefer them to be liquid, if you prefer them to be more salve-like simply placing them in the refrigerator should do the trick. It is important to note that certain oils, namely the castor, sunflower, and hemp, will always be liquid due to their naturally occurring ratio of fatty acids.

For further information on specific oils, and more information on ozonated oils in general, please visit: http://shop.puro3.com/uses-and-ingredients/