How To Make Oil Of Oregano

Since school is back in session, I have noticed sickness is spreading about.  This time of year the kids come down with some kind of virus means I probably will too.

Now with that in mind its time to put our homegrown herbs to use. 

First on my list is Oregano.  Making oil of oregano can be very beneficial. Since it is such a powerful medicinal herb it is almost essential to have in any medicine cabinet.

Oregano: Did you know?

1. Oregano is a natural anti-inflammatory.
2. Oregano is a natural pain-killer.
3. Great topical ointment for arthritis, carpel tunnel, bursitis and sore muscles.
4. Since it’s a natural pain-killer, it’s great for migraines and sinus headaches.
5. Breathing  in the oil scent will help alleviate nasal congestion.
6. Extracts toxins from the body therefore neutralizing insect stings and bug bites.
7. Oregano can be used as a treatment for typical burns.  Apply oil lightly to get instant pain relief and so blisters will not form.
8. Placing oil of oregano around the outside of the ear canal (do not place oil inside directly) will help fight off ear infections.
9. Rubbing diluted oil of oregano on a sore tooth will help alleviate pain.
10. Taken internally oil of oregano will help weaken viruses.
11. Kills fungi and bacteria.
12. Powerful remedy for ache once applied on the skin.

How to make oil of Oregano?

The ratio for making oil of oregano is 1:1. Pretty simple. 

Since I only had enough of oregano to make up 1/2 cup that is what I used. 

1/2 cup oil and 1/2 cup oregano leaves that have been rinsed, dried and chopped or crushed. 

The fresh oregano must be completely dry of  excess water, otherwise you risk the growth of mold or cause the oil to go rancid.

Recipe: How to make oil of Oregano at home?

Ingredients

• Olive oil, Almond oil or Grape seed oil
• Oregano leaves chopped or crushed
• Sanitized Jar with lid
• Sunny Window
• Patience

Instructions

1. Boiled some water in a sauce pan. Once at a, rolling boil turn off the heat.
2. Then, place the oil and chopped oregano leaves in the sanitized jar.
3. Place the jar into the hot water and let it sit for about 5-10 min. This allows the oil to heat up and helps give a kick start to the oregano releasing its oils.
4. Remove the jar from the water bath and place in a sunny window for 1-2 weeks.
5. Shake the jar gently every few days (be sure the jar is sealed before shaking, obviously).
6. After the 2 weeks has passed, strain the oil from the leaves.
7. Place into a sanitized jar.
8. Store the oil in a dark, cool place.

Tip 1: To help preserve the oil, add in a few drops of grapefruit seed essential oil.

Tip 2: Some people might be sensitive to oregano.  Do a test patch of oil on your skin before using.

This is not an essential oil but is instead an infusion. 

Essential oils are highly concentrated and should never be applied to the skin with out a carrier oil.