How to make Oregano Oil at home

Learn how to make oregano oil at home using simple ingredients, and discover how you can use it today in cooking, for health, or as a home remedy.

If you have mainly used oregano to improve the taste of your product pastapizza or grilled dishes, you might be surprised to learn that oregano oil also has health benefits.

As a plant in the mint family, oregano is rich in powerful oils that can aid digestion, reduce inflammation and strengthen the immune system.

Which oregano should I use when making oregano oil at home?

Oregano plant belongs to the genus Origanum within the coin family, Lamiaceae. There are many varieties of oregano, each with its own distinct taste and characteristics. This includes regular oregano (Origanum vulgare), as well as regional varieties such as Greek oregano, Italian oregano, Mexican oregano and Cuban oregano. Known as the “ornament of the mountains” in Greek, Origanum vulgare is the eighth most popular herb worldwide and is also called ‘wild marjoram’. If you are confused, you may want to check the key differences between oregano and marjoram.

When making infused oil at home, regular oregano is the best choice (Origanum vulgare), which has a robust flavor and a high concentration of beneficial oils. While Greek or Italian oregano is also acceptable, avoid Mexican or Cuban oregano, as they have different flavor profiles and may not offer the same medicinal properties.

Whether you grow your own oregano or buy fresh or dried oregano at the store, choose organic to avoid pesticides.

Dry herb or fresh?

You can make oregano oil from fresh or dried oregano leaves. However, fresh leaves contain moisture, which can lead to mold or bacterial growth in the oil. If you use fresh oregano leaves, make sure they are wilted beforehand to prevent excess moisture, which can spoil the oil.

I made this recipe from fresh oregano leaves; we will finish the bottle quickly.

Which carrier oil should I use for the best potency of oregano oil?

For best potency, use carrier oils with a neutral taste and a stable shelf life. These include extra virgin olive oil, avocado oil, grapeseed oil, almond oil or jojoba oil. I would avoid using an oil such as coconut oil as it has a distinct taste and can solidify at lower temperatures.

The difference between oregano oil and oregano essential oil

Oregano essential oil is made by steam distilling the flowers or leaves of the plant, resulting in a highly concentrated oil. This process is complex and requires a lot of plant material. Essential oils are very potent and must be diluted before use.

In contrast, infused oil, also called oregano extract, is made by steeping oregano in a carrier oil to preserve its flavor and properties. This method is simpler and involves straining the plant material after infusing.

In this tutorial, we will discuss the process of making oregano infused oil, its benefits and uses.

Materials required:

• Dried oregano (or fresh, well dried)
• Carrier oil (such as olive oil, avocado oil, or almond oil)
• A clean, airtight glass jar
• A fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth
• A clean, dry bottle for storage
• mortar and pestle

DIY oregano oil

First step – Prepare the oregano

If you use fresh oregano, make sure it is dried or wilted to prevent moisture.

You can dry it in two ways: strip the leaves, spread them out on the paper and let them air dry overnight to remove excess moisture. You can also tie the sprigs together with a rubber band and hang them in a dry place for several days before removing the leaves.

You can skip this step if you are using dry oregano.

Second step: Chop or crush the oregano leaves

Use a mortar and pestle to lightly crush the oregano, which will release the oils.

You can also chop the leaves.

Third step – Infuse into the oil

Place the oregano oil in a clean glass jar. Add one part dried herb to three parts oil. Make sure all herbs are completely covered with the carrier oil.

Close the jar tightly and place the herbal oil in a warm, sunny place. Allow the oregano to steep for 1-2 weeks, shaking the jar gently every day.

Fourth step – Strain the oil

After the infusion period, strain the oregano from the oil with a fine sieve or cheesecloth. Make sure you squeeze out as much oil as possible.

Pour the infused oil into a clean, dry bottle. Store it in a cool, dark place to maintain its potency.

I like using this one Dark glass dropper bottles for storage. They protect it from light and preserve its strength.

Benefits of oregano oil

Oregano oil contains carvacrol and thymol oil and offers a range of benefits.

Antimicrobial properties

Oregano oil contains carvacrol and thymol, which work together to fight bacteria and fungi and keep infections at bay.

Research shows that oregano oil is effective against the development of Candida infection (2)

Anti-inflammatory effects

Carvacrol, along with rosmarinic acid, reduces inflammation and provides relief from conditions such as arthritis.

Digestive support

Thanks to Carvacrol, oregano oil provides relief from digestive problems and can help soothe symptoms such as bloating and gas.

Antioxidant benefits

Rosmarinic acid and cymene provide powerful antioxidant effects. Oregano oil can therefore help protect your cells against oxidative stress (1).

How to use oregano oil

There are several ways to incorporate oregano oil into your daily routine. If it is too strong, dilute it with a carrier oil to lower the concentration.

For sore muscles and joint pain

Massage it into your skin to relieve sore muscles and joint pain.

For skin conditions

Apply it to the affected area with a cotton swab to treat conditions such as toe fungus or warts.

How to take oregano oil internally

Drink it with water or juice: Add 1 teaspoon of oil to a sip of water, hold it in your mouth and swallow. Follow with more water.

Gargle: Add 1 teaspoon of oil to ½ cup of water and use it as a gargle.

Inhale: To relieve respiratory problems such as congestion or sinusitis, add a teaspoon to a steam tent made by boiling water, remove the pot from the heat and lean over the steaming water with a towel over your head and shoulders. Breathe in the steam for 15 to 20 minutes.

Culinary applications

Implement the oil in your cooking.

Sprinkle it over salads, soups or pasta dishes to enhance the flavor.

For a tasty marinade, mix it with herbs, spices and olive oil. Then let the mixture marinate meat or vegetables for a few hours before grilling or roasting to get the best flavor infusion.

How to make oregano oil quickly

Fill a medium saucepan with water and bring it to a gentle boil. Place the lid of a canning jar on the bottom of the jar, then place the jar on the lid to prevent it from touching the jar directly. Simmer over very low heat for 5 hours, adding more water if necessary to maintain levels. Make sure the temperature does not exceed 50°C to avoid damaging the oil. I always use a thermometer.

When you’re done, turn off the heat and let the pot cool. Carefully remove the jar and strain the oregano from the oil using a fine mesh strainer. Transfer the infused oil to a clean glass jar for storage.

How many oil of oregano should I take per day?

Because infused oil is less concentrated than essential oil, you can adjust the amount to suit your taste preference.

Start with 1-2 teaspoons per day. You can add it to your food or mix it into a drink.

If you are using it for specific health benefits, such as digestive support or immune health, you can use up to 1 tablespoon per day, depending on your tolerance.

Is Homemade Oregano Oil Safe?

Homemade oregano infused oil is generally safe when used properly. Store the oil in a cool, dark place in airtight containers to prevent spoilage. Use the oil in moderation, start with small amounts and adjust as necessary. Test it on a small area of ​​skin first to check for allergic reactions, especially if you are applying it topically. Avoid using it if you are pregnant. Consult a doctor before using the oil extensively or for medicinal purposes.