You can make oregano oil at home, and it will be just as good as the $30 bottles (for 30 grams). This isn’t essential oil, but for most uses, an oil tincture is exactly what you need. Aside from its medicinal uses (I successfully removed a wart with it), I also add oregano oil to soups and creamy chicken marinades.
Laboratory studies repeatedly confirm oregano’s powerful antibiotic, antiparasitic, and antifungal properties. Oregano oil is a fully legal remedy in modern medicine. Thanks to the carvacrol it contains, it has become possible to fight Staphylococcus aureus.
How to Make Oregano Oil
This method is similar to how mint extract is made. I recommend making some for a homemade foot cream.
- A bunch of oregano
- Vegetable oil (sunflower, olive, canola—whatever you have)
- A jar with a tight lid
Thoroughly rinse the herb and dry it well; if water gets into the oil, the mixture risks becoming moldy.
Remove the leaves from the stems and gently crush them in a mortar to release the essential oils.
Warm the oil—it’s best if it’s nicely heated. You can place the jar in hot water for 5-10 minutes.
Tightly seal the jar and let it infuse at room temperature for 24 hours, then place it in the fridge for 2-4 weeks. The mixture should turn a rich brown color.
Shake the oil periodically. Once infused, strain the oil and press the leaves well. Store in the refrigerator.
Why Use Oregano Oil?
- Natural anti-inflammatory effect.
- Both external and internal pain relief.
- In 30% of cases, it stops migraine attacks—3-5 drops under the tongue as soon as you suspect an attack (I’m an expert in this, check out my article on migraines).
- Treats bursitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, and relieves arthritis symptoms.
- Relieves itching from insect bites.
- Heals burn scars (although I don’t recommend applying any oils to fresh burns—use cold water and panthenol first, then treat with oils later).
- Application to a painful tooth will reduce inflammation and help you get through the night until you see a dentist.
- Preventative antiviral during flu season.
- Applying oregano oil to warts and papillomas will remove them without leaving a scar, unlike celandine.
I make this oil from a plant I grew on my windowsill . I love adding a few drops to the dough when baking ciabatta, in pizza sauce, chicken marinade, mushroom soups, and noodle soup. By the way, I have some great recipes with oregano .
