Learn how to make oregano oil at home with just 2 simple ingredients for a natural remedy with incredible benefits. With anti-inflammatory, antibiotic, and antifungal properties, this oil is both powerful and versatile. Whether you’re tackling skin issues or looking to boost your immune system, this is a great way to maintain your overall health.
Making homemade oregano oil is easier than you might think, and it’s so much more than a culinary ingredient. This DIY recipe taps into the centuries-long tradition of using oregano for its powerful medicinal properties. From alleviating athlete’s foot to yeast infections, the benefits are endless. Once you try it, you’ll wonder why you haven’t been making it all along!
What is Oregano Oil?
Oregano oil is a natural oil made by infusing oregano, a fragrant herb from the mint family, into a carrier oil like olive or avocado oil. It’s known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The Difference Between Oregano Oil and Oil of Oregano
While they sound similar, oregano oil and oil of oregano aren’t the same. Oregano oil is a gentler infusion made by soaking oregano leaves in a carrier oil. This makes it great for cooking and wellness benefits.
Oil of oregano, on the other hand, is an essential oil. It is a highly concentrated extract packed with potent compounds like carvacrol and thymol. It is much stronger and primarily used for medicinal purposes. Always dilute it with a carrier oil before using because its potency is too intense for direct application.
Oregano Oil Benefits
- Antioxidant: Phenol compounds like rosmarinic acid protect against free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and supporting overall health.
- Anti-fungal: With thymol as a key component, this infusion helps combat fungal issues like candida and athlete’s foot while supporting immune function.
- Antibacterial: Thanks to its carvacrol content, it’s highly effective in fighting harmful bacteria and preventing infections naturally.
- Antibiotic: Known as a natural remedy, it offers broad-spectrum protection by targeting bacteria and microorganisms without synthetic chemicals.
- Anti-inflammatory: Its inflammation-reducing properties make it a soothing option for sinus infections and other swollen, irritated areas.
- Antiviral: By boosting white blood cell production, it strengthens the body’s ability to fight off colds, flu, and other viral illnesses.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Dried Organic Oregano Leaves: I always use dried oregano because it has a more concentrated flavor and reduces the risk of spoilage compared to fresh leaves. Choosing organic is important to me because I want to avoid any pesticides or chemicals, ensuring the oil is as pure and beneficial as possible.
- Oil of Choice (Organic Olive Oil): I like to use organic olive oil because it has a neutral flavor that lets the oregano shine, and it’s packed with healthy fats that help extract and preserve the beneficial compounds. Plus, it’s something I always have on hand, making this recipe super convenient to whip up.
RATIO OF OREGANO TO OIL: Add one part of dried herb to three parts of oil. For example, 1/4 cup of dried herb with 3/4 cup of oil.
How To Make Oregano Oil
SOAK. Place equal parts dried oregano and your chosen oil into a clean, sterilized mason jar. Let the oregano leaves absorb the initial pour of oil, then top with more oil as needed.
I generally fill half of an 8-ounce mason jar with dried oregano, add olive oil, let it absorb (about 2-3 minutes). Then, add more olive oil to fill the jar about ¾ full.
GENTLY HEAT THE JAR. Heat a pot of water until it reaches a gentle boil, then turn off the heat. Carefully place the mason jar in the hot water for about 15 minutes to help release the beneficial compounds in the oregano.
INFUSE FOR WEEKS. Remove the jar from the water, wipe it dry, and let it sit at room temperature for 2-4 weeks. Shake the jar daily to ensure the oil infuses properly.
STRAIN OIL. After the infusion period, strain the oil through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove the herb pieces.
STORE IT. Transfer the strained oil into amber dropper bottles to protect it from light and preserve its potency. Store in a cool, dark place.
Tips
- Infuse in a glass jar: Always use a sterilized glass jar for infusing to prevent any unwanted chemicals or flavors from leaching into the oil. Avoid plastic containers because it can leach chemicals into the oil, especially when exposed to heat.
- Dilute before use: This oil is highly concentrated, so always dilute it with a carrier oil when applying topically or using it internally. A common dilution ratio is 1 drop of oregano oil to 1 teaspoon of carrier oil.
- Ensure proper sterilization: Sterilize all jars and utensils before starting to avoid contamination and ensure your oil stays fresh throughout its shelf life.
- Use high-quality ingredients: Choose organic dried oregano and a pure, cold-pressed oil for the best results and to maximize the oil’s potency.
- Shake daily during infusion: Shaking the jar daily ensures the oregano is evenly distributed and properly infused into the oil.
- Don’t rush the infusion process: Allow the oil to steep for at least 2–4 weeks to ensure all the beneficial compounds from the oregano are fully extracted.
- Strain thoroughly: Use a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove any oregano pieces completely. This step helps extend the oil’s shelf life and creates a smooth final product.
How to Use Oregano Oil
- Internal: To fight infections, add a few drops to smoothies, teas, or warm water.
- Culinary: Use it to enhance the flavor of pasta, stews, and salads. A small amount goes a long way due to its strong, herbaceous taste.
- Topical: Dilute and apply to sore muscles for relief, minor cuts and burns for antimicrobial support, or skin conditions like athlete’s foot and acne.
- Diffuser: Add a few drops to a diffuser to purify the air and create a clean aroma in your space.
- Steam Inhalation: Add to steaming water and inhale deeply to alleviate respiratory issues like congestion or sinus infections.
Storing
Proper storage ensures your homemade oil stays fresh and effective. Transfer the strained oil into amber or dark glass bottles to protect it from sunlight and seal tightly to prevent air exposure.
Keep the bottle in a cool, dark place away from heat and light, avoiding refrigeration to maintain consistency. Label the bottle with the date to track its shelf life, which is typically 6 months to a year.
Common Questions
What is the most effective way to take oregano oil?
The most effective way to take oregano oil depends on its intended use. For internal use, dilute a small amount with a carrier oil and add it to smoothies, teas, or water. For topical application, always dilute with a carrier oil before applying to skin to avoid irritation.
What is the best carrier oil for oregano oil?
Olive oil is the best carrier oil for oregano oil due to its neutral flavor, long shelf life, and ability to effectively extract and preserve the oregano’s beneficial compounds during infusion. Other good options include avocado oil or grapeseed oil if you prefer a lighter consistency.
Can I speed up the infusion process?
Heating the jar in hot water for 15 minutes helps jumpstart the infusion process, but the oil still needs 2–4 weeks to fully develop its potency. Patience ensures the best results.
Homemade Oregano Oil Recipe
Ingredients
- Dried Organic Oregano Leaves RATIO OF OREGANO TO OIL: Add one part of dried herb to three parts of oil. For example, 1/4 cup of dried herb with 3/4 cup of oil.
- Oil of choice I use Organic Olive oIl
Instructions
- Place equal parts dried oregano and your chosen oil into a clean, sterilized mason jar. Let the oregano leaves absorb the initial pour of oil, then top with more oil as needed so that the oil is at least 1-2" over the oregano. (I generally fill half a 8-ounce mason jar with dried oregano, add olive oil, let it absorb (about 2-3 minutes). Then, add more olive oil to fill the jar about ¾ full.
- Heat a pot of water until it reaches a gentle boil, then turn off the heat. Carefully place the mason jar in the hot water for about 15 minutes to help release the beneficial compounds in the oregano.
- Remove the jar from the water, wipe it dry, and let it sit at room temperature for 2-4 weeks. Shake the jar daily to ensure the oil infuses properly.
- After the infusion period, strain the oil through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove the oregano pieces.
- Transfer the strained oil into amber dropper bottles to protect it from light and preserve its potency. Store in a cool, dark place.
Notes
Nutrition
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