Ancient Apothecary Oregano Essential Oil
For topical, aromatherapy or dietary purposes.
Note: Statements with daggers refer to internal use. All others refer to aromatic or topical use.
In the kitchen or out, oregano is amazing! It’s a favorite cooking spice with potent antioxidants, but it can also perform as a strong cleansing agent.
Oregano essential oil (Origanum vulgare) has benefits that were first recognized in ancient Greece, where oregano essential oil was often used on skin to help support its health.
It’s often added to food or taken in empty supplement capsules to maintain an internal balanced microbial environment.†
Oregano is a plant that is native to higher altitudes and typically grows in the mountains, which, incidentally, is how it got its name oregano, which means “delight of the mountains.”
Essential oil of oregano is extracted via steam distillation of fresh oregano leaves, and goes by the scientific name Oreganum vulgare. Some of its potent health-supporting components include carvacrol, thymol, cymene, caryophyllene, pinene, bisabolene, linalool, borneol, geranyl acetate, linalyl acetate and terpinene. For example, the pinene content found in oregano essential oil, when taken internally, has been noted for supporting healthy respiration†, while, when diffused, it can help in staying alert.
Additionally, linalool is a common element of many essential oils, including oregano essential oil, and has been found to be a strong supporter of a healthy immune system.†
General Directions for Use:
Diffusion: Use three to four drops in a diffuser.
Internal use: Dilute one drop in at least 4 fluid ounces of liquid.
Topical use: Apply one to two drops to desired area. Dilute with a carrier oil of your choice to minimize any skin sensitivity.
Cautions: Possible skin sensitivity. Consult your physician before use, especially if pregnant, nursing, taking medication or if you have a medical condition. Avoid eyes, mucous membranes, and sensitive skin. Keep out of reach of children.
For topical, aromatherapy or dietary purposes.
Note: Statements with daggers refer to internal use. All others refer to aromatic or topical use.
Oregano oil uses and benefits:
- Add 10 drops to a spray bottle full of water for a non-toxic counter spray.
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Put one to two drops in an empty supplement capsule to help support healthy respiratory function.†
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Take one drop daily to maintain healthy immune function†
- Used as a powerful cleansing and purifying agent
- Excellent source of antioxidants
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Add one drop in place of one tablespoon ground oregano to your favorite Italian dishes.†
Oregano essential oil blends well with the following essential oils: lavender, rosemary, bergamot, chamomile, cypress, cedarwood, tea tree and eucalyptus. These combinations are often made and widely used by aromatherapists and herbalists.
Note: Even though oregano oil has a long history of safe use, it can cause irritation of the skin and mucous membranes, especially when it's taken at high concentrations or dosages. Those who are pregnant should avoid using oregano essential oil due to its general stimulating properties and its ability to regulate hormones.
Additionally, it's always a good idea to check with your healthcare professional before adding it to your diet or your lifestyle regimen. And as with any essential oil or new dietary supplement or food, you should always consult your healthcare professional prior to use.
Those who are allergic to basil, lavender, marjoram, mint or sage are also often allergic to oregano and oregano essential oil.
