How to Use Oregano Essential Oil

Preparation and Dosage of Wild Oregano Oil

Apr 28, 2009 Cindy Ausbrooks

Oregano essential oil, also known as wild oregano oil, can be taken internally and used topically in a variety of herbal medicine preparations.

Oil of oregano is the concentrated essence, or essential oil, of wild oregano. The plant’s botanical name is Originum vulgare, and it is known as the “true” oregano species. It takes approximately 100 pounds of oregano leaves to make a single pound of the volatile oregano oil. However, every drop contains over 50 different antimicrobial compounds.

There are numerous oregano oil health benefits, and it can be taken safely internally or topically, depending on the condition for which it’s been prescribed. However, you should always consult a qualified herbal or medical practitioner prior to taking oregano oil to make sure it’s right for your particular condition.

Taking Oregano Essential Oil Internally

For adults, dilute two drops wild oil of oregano in four ounces (120 ml) of water, and take 1-2 times daily. For children, dilute one drop in four ounces (120 ml) of water, and take 1-2 times daily. Juice or any other natural liquid may be used in place of water, if desired. Oregano oil can also be found in capsules at your local health food store, and should be taken according to the manufacturer’s directions.

Topical Uses for Oregano Essential Oil

As a general guideline, oil of oregano can be diluted with olive oil and applied directly to the affected area. Combine one teaspoon oregano oil with two teaspoons of olive oil, mix well, and rub into the skin. It can also be used more specifically, as in the following examples:

• Rub the diluted oil into the gums 1-2 times per day for infections.
• Apply oregano essential oil to warts, boils, or even fungal infections such as athlete’s foot. Saturate the area, bind with a clean bandage, allow the oil to sit overnight, and then change the dressing. Continue until the infection is gone.
• Add several drops of oregano oil to liquid hand soap or body wash to expedite healing of wounds, abscesses, or skin infections.
• Apply diluted oregano essential oil into areas of diaper rash at each diaper change until the rash is gone. Make sure to use only a few drops per teaspoon of olive oil to avoid irritation.
• Rub a drop of the oil underneath each nostril daily to relieve sinus problems. Inhale deeply each time to allow the vapors to travel through your sinuses.

Other Uses for Oregano Essential Oil

Oregano oil can also be used as an antiseptic for use in cleaning supplies. Try adding several drops of the diluted oil to a clean cotton cloth and wiping down kitchen surfaces to kill any harmful bacteria. In addition, it can be placed in an oil diffuser overnight to help reduce congestion or sinus problems.

Oregano Essential Oil Precautions

Although true oregano essential oil is safe to use internally as described above, artificial oregano oil is toxic. Check the product carefully and make sure you purchase only 100 percent pure and natural oregano essential oil. Many low grade imitations are available which contain thyme or marjoram instead of oregano. If you can’t verify the source of the oil, don’t take it internally.

Do not use oregano essential oil internally or externally if you are pregnant or nursing. Anyone with a medical condition of any kind should consult an herbal or medical practitioner before taking oregano oil.

The copyright of the article How to Use Oregano Essential Oil in Natural Medicine is owned by Cindy Ausbrooks. Permission to republish How to Use Oregano Essential Oil in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.

Oregano Essential Oil