May 2025
This month, the global supply landscape for essential oils and carrier oils remains dynamic, with seasonal harvests and weather variability playing a pivotal role in shaping raw material availability and market trends. Coriander Seed Essential Oil is the only product in the clear of any major challenges that could impact product availability. Meanwhile, oils such as Spearmint 65% Essential Oil, Nutmeg Essential Oil (India) and Oat Carrier Oil face concerning climate conditions that may threaten crop health and total harvest yield, but market demand for these products remain stable. We predict that Prickly Pear Carrier Oil will experience shortages as early as the next quarter, so placing requests for bulk orders early is recommended. The only butter featured in this month’s report, our Ultra Refined Shea Butter, is on the cusp of a significant shortage due to insufficient environmental conditions that have impacted fruiting and nut collection.
Continue reading to stay informed on the latest industry trends from the experts at New Directions Aromatics.
Coriander Seed Essential Oil is steam distilled from the Coriandrum sativum seeds that are primarily cultivated in the black soils of the Odesa region in Ukraine. Harvesting the crop is currently in its early stages. With plantations typically beginning in late February and harvest scheduled for July, the next few months will be crucial.
The Coriandrum sativum seeds thrive in sunny weather with minimal rainfall, and current conditions have been favorable, though it remains too early to accurately predict the 2025 yield. Market interest is steady for Coriander Seed Oil, and bulk buyers should begin inquiring about pricing toward the end of July. Given the current trajectory and absence of major environmental challenges, expectations remain cautiously optimistic, though yield comparisons to last year have yet to materialize.
Spearmint 65% Oil is steam distilled from the Mentha spicata herb grown across the Bareilly and Sehswan regions of India. This single-harvest crop is currently in its harvest season and thrives in hot temperatures ranging from 30°C to 40°C, as well as in clay-rich, well-watered soils.
While yield per acre remains consistent at around 3%, the overall crop size dropped to 150MT from 180MT over the last few years. Farmers are increasingly shifting to higher-return crops like corn and wheat, contributing to a supply shortfall. As a result, the market is already experiencing shortages, which are expected to intensify in the upcoming quarter. Market demand remains firm for Spearmint Essential Oil, and bulk buyers are encouraged to finalize purchases in June to mitigate rising costs and limited availability.
Spicy and energizing, Nutmeg Essential Oil is steam distilled from the Myristica fragrans seeds. India’s nutmeg harvest, spanning June to August, is approaching, with growing conditions under close observation. Myristica fragrans seeds thrive in black soil and requires a humid to rainy climate, although excessive rainfall can adversely affect the harvest volume. Although the crop size is anticipated to remain similar to last year, the unpredictability of the regional climate poses an ongoing concern. That said, no supply shortages are expected in the near term. The market is steady, and bulk buyers can expect to begin pricing inquiries in July and August, depending on regional weather outcomes closer to the peak harvest period.
Known for its neutrality in product formulations, Oat Carrier Oil is cultivated from the Avena sativa kernels using the hexane extraction method. The Avena sativa crop grows in the dry, sandy soils of Mongolia and China’s Hebei province and responds best to cool, arid conditions.
Last year’s harvest saw heavy rainfall in August, leading to complications such as seed molding, and a marginal 2% decrease in yield compared to the previous year. Despite these issues, shortages are not anticipated, as Oat Carrier Oil requires only a marginal quantity of oats for production. The market remains stable with consistent demand, and formulators should consider October for pricing discussions and procurement planning.
Prickly Pear Carrier Oil is cold pressed from the Opuntia ficus indica seeds grown in Morocco. The harvest season, which is expected in September, is showing regional variation. Northern Morocco reports stable yields, while the southern region is facing sharp declines due to persistent drought and the spread of diseases. This resilient plant is typically grown in wild, arid soil with minimal intervention, but consistent dryness and climate stress have led to an overall decrease in national yield. A supply shortage is projected in the next quarter, with elevated prices likely. Bulk buyers should consider placing orders early, between August and September, to avoid delays and secure their supply.
One of our most popular butters, our Ultra Refined Shea Butter is a rich emollient that provides a neutral yet nourishing base in formulations. The shea harvest, which takes place between July and September, continues to face setbacks following a poor 2024 season that yielded 30–40% less than the previous year. Sourced from across the West African region, shea trees thrive in the local soil and climate. However, recent environmental conditions have significantly affected fruiting and nut collection. As a result, the market is currently depleted, and demand continues to outpace supply. A shortage is anticipated unless growing conditions improve dramatically. Bulk buyers are urged to get organized in advance for their summer purchasing window, as competition for available volumes is expected to remain high.