How to make Oregano Oil at home

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

If you’ve mostly used oregano to enhance the flavor of your pasta, pizza, or grilled dishes, you might be surprised to learn that oregano oil also has health benefits.

As a plant from the mint family, oregano is rich in powerful oils that may help with digestion, reduce inflammation, and strengthen the immune system.

What Oregano to use when make oregano oil at home?

Oregano plant belongs to the genus Origanum within the mint family, Lamiaceae. There are many varieties of oregano, each with its own distinct flavor and characteristics. This includes common oregano (Origanum vulgare), as well as regional varieties like 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 globally and is sometimes 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, the best choice is common oregano (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 might not offer the same medicinal properties.

Whether you grow your own oregano or buy fresh or dried oregano from 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 contains moisture, which can lead to mold or bacteria growth in the oil. If using fresh oregano leaves, make sure it is wilted beforehand to avoid excess moisture, which can spoil the oil.

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

Which carrier oil to use for the best potency of oregano oil?

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

The Difference Between Oregano Infused Oil and Oregano Essential Oil

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

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

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

Materials Needed:

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

DIY Oregano Oil

First step – Prepare the Oregano

If using fresh oregano, ensure it is dried or wilted to avoid moisture.

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

Yu 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 help release its oils.

Alternatively, chop the leaves instead.

Third step – Infuse into the oil

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

Seal the jar tightly and place the herbal oil in a warm, sunny spot. Allow the oregano to infuse 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 mesh strainer or cheesecloth. Make sure to 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 to use these Dark Glass Dropper Bottles for Storage. They Protect it from light, preserving its potency.

Benefits of Oregano Oil

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

Antimicrobial Properties

Oregano oil contains Carvacrol and thymol, which work together to combat bacteria and fungi, helping to keep infections at bay.

Studies show that oregano oil is effective against the development of Candida infection (2)

Anti-Inflammatory Effects

Carvacrol, together with rosmarinic acid, reduces inflammation and provides relief from conditions like arthritis.

Digestive Support

Thanks to Carvacrol, oregano oil offers ease in digestion issues and can help soothe symptoms such as bloating and gas.

Antioxidant Benefits

Rosmarinic acid and cymene provide powerful antioxidant effects. Thus, oregano oil can help to protect your cells from 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 with a cotton swab to the affected area to treat conditions like 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 then swallow. Follow with more water.

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

Inhale: To alleviate respiratory issues such as congestion or sinusitis, add a teaspoon to a steam tent created by boiling water, removing the pot from heat, and leaning over the steaming water with a towel draped over your head and shoulders. Inhale the steam for 15 to 20 minutes.

Culinary Uses

Implement the oil into your cooking.

Drizzle it over salads, soups, or pasta dishes to enhance their flavor.

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

How to make Oregano Oil Quickly

Fill a medium pot with water and bring it to a gentle simmer. Place a canning jar lid at the bottom of the pot, then set the jar on top of the lid to keep it from touching the pot directly. Let it simmer on very low heat for 5 hours, adding more water as needed to maintain the level. Ensure the temperature doesn’t get 50 C to avoid degrading the oil. I always use a thermometer.

Once done, turn off the heat and allow the pot to cool. Carefully remove the jar from the pot and strain the oregano from the oil using a fine mesh strainer. Transfer the infused oil into a clean glass jar for storage.

How much oil of oregano should I take per day?

Since infused oil is less concentrated than essential oil, you can adjust the amount based on your taste preference.

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

If using it for specific health benefits, such as digestive support or immune health, you might 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, starting with small amounts and adjusting as needed. Test it on a small skin area first to check for any allergic reactions, especially if applying it topically. Avoid using it if pregnant, consult with a healthcare provider before using the oil extensively or for medicinal purposes.