Here’s How to Make Oil of Oregano at Home with Simple Steps for Pure Benefits so you can make the most of it without doing much!
The numerous benefits of essential oils explain why they are so in demand. However, buying a collection of those can seriously disrupt your monthly budget. If you, too, have the same problem, here are simple steps to make oil of oregano right at your home with all of its benefits.
Why DIY Oregano Oil?
Oregano oil is lauded in natural health communities not only for its antibacterial properties but also for its high amount of vitamins and minerals, such as iron, manganese, and antioxidants.
Plus, DIY oregano oil is beneficial against common ailments such as colds, toothaches, digestive problems, and infections like gingivitis and athlete’s foot. Making it at home is a no-brainer if it will help you take care of so many things!
Oregano Essential Oil Vs Oil of Oregano
First, it is important to understand what we mean by oregano essential oil and oil of oregano. No, they are not the same.
Essential oils are made from a steam distillation process, which involves extracting oil from a plant’s leaves or flowers. Making an essential oil at home is difficult, as it requires a lot of plant material for only a tiny quantity of oil. It is also quite potent and might harm sensitive skin when used topically, even after dilution.
On the other hand, we have oil from oregano. In simple words, this is more like an oil extract. But that’s no reason to underestimate it! The oil of oregano is simple to make and gives the same benefits as oregano essential oil. It’s way easier to make at home!
How To Make Oil Of Oregano At Home
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup of dried and crushed oregano leaves
- 1/2 cup of carrier oil, such as extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 cheesecloth
- 2 airtight glass jars
Pro Tip: Go with amber-colored glass jars. Why? Well, amber-colored glass jars are ideal as they protect the oils from harmful UV rays and visible light, which can degrade their quality and potency. This helps extend their shelf life and ensure they remain effective.
Steps
- Pour half a cup of the dried and crushed oregano leaves into an airtight glass jar and fill to the top with olive oil. If you choose to use fresh oregano leaves, use a little less oil, as the leaves may wilt otherwise. Don’t forget to secure the lid on top.
- Bring a pot of water to a boil. The water should cover the jar almost to the top. Turn off the heat and place your oregano-filled jar into the pot. Let it all sit for around 10-15 minutes as the heat allows the leaves to release their natural oils. Then, remove the jar from the pot and give it a gentle but firm shake. Tighten the lid if needed.
- You can keep the jar on a sunny windowsill for 2 weeks or in a cool, dry place away from sunlight for the same amount of time. The latter will result in a green-colored, cold-pressed oregano oil. Whichever method you choose, you must shake the jar gently every other day or two.
Finally, after 2 weeks, strain the oil from the leaves through cheesecloth and store it in another dark or amber-colored airtight glass jar. You can now start using it.
Now that your oregano oil is ready, you must store it properly to prevent it from going bad. You can also occasionally pour a few drops of lemon or grapefruit oil into the jar for natural preservation.
Note: While this oregano-infused oil can be beneficial, it’s important to note that it’s less potent than commercial oregano oil. But it’s organic and free of any additives.
Rest assured, you can easily use it for a few months to a year before it starts smelling sour. There’s only one precaution–avoid using oregano oil if you are pregnant, nursing or have any underlying medical condition, and consult with your doctor.