Top 7 Ways to Use Oregano Essential Oil
Oregano is an oil that you might not use often, but when you need it you’ll be happy to have it. Oregano oil is sometimes referred to as “nature's antibiotic” and can help support your immune system, fight fungus, and reduce congestion.
Here are 7 ways to use oregano!
Immune Support
One of the key benefits of oregano essential oil is its antimicrobial properties. Oregano essential oil has been shown to have strong antimicrobial activity against a wide range of harmful bacteria, fungi, and viruses. This makes it a promising natural alternative to conventional antimicrobial agents, which can have side effects and contribute to the development of antibiotic resistance.
Oregano essential oil also has antioxidant properties, which can help protect the body against oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is a condition that occurs when there is an imbalance between the production of free radicals and the body's ability to neutralize them. This imbalance can lead to damage to cells, tissues, and organs, and has been linked to a variety of health problems, including cancer, heart disease, and neurodegenerative diseases.
In addition to its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, oregano essential oil has anti-inflammatory properties as well. Inflammation is a natural response of the immune system to injury or infection, but chronic inflammation can contribute to the development of many chronic diseases. Oregano essential oil has been shown to help reduce inflammation in the body, which can benefit overall health.
To use for supporting your immune system, simply dilute with a carrier oil and apply a small amount to the soles of your feet or pulse points. Here’s what I do:
Immune support:
2 drops oregano
1 Tbsp carrier oil
Combine in your hand, massage on bottom of feet when feeling under the weather. Wear socks after applying.
Sinus Relief
When it comes to sinus relief, oregano essential oil has been shown to be effective due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Sinus infections are often caused by harmful bacteria or viruses, and oregano essential oil can help combat these pathogens naturally.
The oil can be used in a diffuser to help clear the sinuses and promote respiratory health. Alternatively, it can be diluted and applied topically around the sinuses for relief. However, it is important to note that undiluted essential oils can be irritating to the skin and mucous membranes, so it is important to use caution and dilute the oil properly before use.
To use, inhale oregano oil vapor by adding a few drops to a bowl of hot water, placing a towel over your head, and inhaling the steam to help clear congested sinuses.
Congestion
As seen with sinus relief, oregano oil has the perfect mix of properties to clear sinuses, which will also help with congestion. If you’re in need of quick relief, simply mix oregano oil with a carrier oil and apply to your chest, back, or feet to support respiratory health during times of congestion.
Digestive Support
Oregano essential oil has also been shown to have positive effects on digestion. It can help promote the production of digestive juices and enzymes, which can improve the body's ability to break down food and absorb nutrients. Additionally, oregano essential oil has been shown to have antispasmodic properties, which can help alleviate digestive issues such as bloating, cramping, and gas.
To use for digestion, mix a drop of oregano oil with a carrier oil and apply over your abdomen in a clockwise motion to support healthy digestion.
Nail Health
One of the best (and my favorite!) benefits of oregano essential oil for nail health is its antimicrobial properties. Oregano essential oil contains several compounds, including carvacrol and thymol, which have been shown to have potent antimicrobial activity against various harmful bacteria and fungi. Nail infections caused by these pathogens can often be difficult to treat with conventional medications, making oregano essential oil a promising natural alternative.
Applying the oil directly to the nails can help combat nail infections, while applying it to the skin around the nails can help reduce inflammation and promote healthy nail growth.
Here’s my remedy to promote healthy nail growth and combat fungal infections:
Nail Fungus Remedy
In a 1 oz dropper bottle
6 drops oregano
8 drops tea tree
1 oz fractionated coconut oil
Combine both ingredients in a 1 oz dropper bottle, apply morning and night - wear socks after applying.
Wart Treatment
Just like nail fungus, oregano oil can help get rid of a wart. Mix this same solution, apply daily, and cover with a bandaid.
Wart Remedy
In a 1 oz dropper bottle
6 drops oregano
8 drops tea tree
1 oz fractionated coconut oil
Combine both ingredients in a 1 oz dropper bottle, apply morning and night - cover with a bandaid.
Natural Disinfectant
Since oregano essential oil has strong antimicrobial properties, it makes a very effective natural disinfectant. It has been shown to be effective against a wide range of harmful bacteria, fungi, and viruses. This makes it a good alternative to common toxic household products sold in stores. Oregano essential oil can be used to disinfect most surfaces in the home, such as kitchen counters and bathrooms. Since it does have a very strong smell, it’s best used sparingly for the grimiest cleans.
Here’s my go-to DIY:
Dilute with 1 C water, 1 C vinegar, ¼ C alcohol, and 10 drops of oregano oil to create a natural disinfectant. Again, oregano has a powerful aroma, this is best used for extra grimey situations. For an everyday disinfectant, swap oregano with lemon oil.
Recipe:
1 C water
1 C vinegar
¼ C alcohol
10 drops of oregano oil
16 oz glass spray bottle
Directions:
Combine all ingredients in the spray bottle and shake before using.
Oregano truly is a powerhouse essential oil- it doesn’t have as many uses as other oils, but what it can do, it does very well. Shop your new staple oil here!
