The ancient Romans and Greeks had a deep appreciation for oregano. It has many medicinal properties, besides its name coming from the Greek words “ganos” and “oros,” which mean joy and mountain.
Overall, oregano means “joy of the mountain!” Oil of oregano also has antioxidant, antiseptic, antimicrobial, antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory qualities.
It is a carminative—meaning it lessens gas formation in the stomach—and cholagogue, meaning it releases bile more easily and aids digestion of fats.Extracting oil from oregano entails a distinct distillation process. However, there’s an easy way to make your own at home:
What You Will Need
- Put some oregano leaves, crushed or chopped, into the pasta.
- Oils are a great way to target your skin with nutrients that act as natural antioxidants, leaving your skin feeling and looking revitalized.
What To Do
- Once water boils, it is important that you turn off the flame because the vapor it produces can cause the pot to crack.
- Place the leaves in a jar and pour the chosen oil over them.
- Place the jar into boiling water for 5-10 minutes. This will heat up the oil so that the oregano releases its natural oils.
- Put the jar of sour milk and water in a sunny window for 1-2 weeks. Keep shaking up the mixture every few days to ensure that it’s evenly spread around.
- After 2 weeks, strain the oil from the leaves into a new jar. Store in a cool and dark place.
If you’re looking to preserve old jars of homemade oil of oregano, add a couple drops of grapefruit oil. (If you decide not to make your own oil, then try using one from an essential oils company like Young Living.)
Uses For Oil Of Oregano
- Respiratory illnesses
Many European respiratory remedies contain oregano as an important ingredient. It is used both externally or internally to treat asthma, bronchitis, colds and the flu.It reduces inflammation caused by allergens. It also acts as a mild sedative and lessens the body’s reaction to the allergens. Massage oil of oregano onto your chest to relieve these ailments.
- Skin ailments
For many people who suffer from eczema, psoriasis, candidiasis and rosacea, oil of oregano can provide relief. Remember that this oil is a natural warming agent, so you should blend it in with jojoba or coconut oils before testing it on a small area on your body.
- Fungal infections
It is important to take care of one’s feet and nails in order to prevent any fungal infections. It has been shown that apple cider vinegar can help treat athlete’s foot, but do be sure to dilute it first before using it.
- Menstrual pain
Oils can help relieve menstrual issues like amenorrhea, painful periods, and dysmenorrhea. Because oil of oregano is an emmenagogue, it helps stimulate blood flow and a contract for easier menstrual flow.
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If you’re experiencing cramps related to your menstrual cycle, you can try drinking ginger tea mixed with 2-3 teaspoons of oil of oregano. Furthermore, you can add a teaspoon of coconut oil to that recipe to intensify the effectiveness of the oil in calming period pains.
- Cardiovascular diseases
Oil of oregano is a natural antioxidant, which may prevent free radicals from harming blood vessels and the heart.
- Arthritis and muscle pain
The anti-inflammatory properties of the oil, along with its natural warmth, make it perfect for relieving aches and pain due to inflammation. Consider mixing a therapeutic grade essential oil with a carrier oil and then rubbing that mixture onto the affected area.
- Animal conditions
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- Natural insect repellent
The oil of oregano can be used to get rid of head lice and household pests. Also, it works well in the garden to repel insects and pests. Just mix 25 drops of oil of oregano with lemon essential oil that’s combined in equal parts with distilled water, shake vigorously, spay on surfaces and wipe them dry, or drop several drops of the blend onto cotton balls and place them inside drawers or cabinets.