Oregano Essential Oil (Origanum vulgare)

Steam-distilled essential oil of Origanum vulgare, Mediterranean Oregano. The oil is dominated by carvacrol and thymol (the two are typically 70-90% of the oil combined) - phenolic compounds with strong antimicrobial properties that are the focus of substantial modern research. Oregano oil is one of the most potent essential oils on the market.

Important Safety Information

Oregano oil is exceptionally potent and skin-irritating. The high carvacrol and thymol content makes it a strong skin irritant; undiluted application can cause burning and chemical burns. Always dilute to no more than 1% in carrier oil for topical use (about 6 drops per fluid ounce of carrier). Not recommended for internal use without expert guidance. Not recommended during pregnancy, with infants, or with sensitive skin. Avoid undiluted contact with mucous membranes.

Key Facts

Botanical name

Origanum vulgare

Plant part

Leaves and flowering tops

Extraction

Steam distillation

Primary compounds

Carvacrol and thymol (typically 70-90% combined)

Aromatic character

Sharp, herbaceous, intensely warm

Notable for

One of the most-studied essential oils for traditional antimicrobial effects

What is Oregano Essential Oil?

Oregano essential oil is the concentrated aromatic distillate of oregano leaves. The composition varies significantly by chemotype, growing conditions, and origin - "high-carvacrol" Mediterranean oregano oils (typically 60-80% carvacrol) are the most prized for traditional antimicrobial use. The oil is vastly more potent than the dried herb; a single drop delivers the aromatic and chemical impact of substantial dried oregano.

How to Use Oregano Essential Oil

Topical (heavily diluted): 1% in carrier oil maximum (about 6 drops per fluid ounce of carrier). Diffusion: 1-3 drops in a diffuser; potent. Some users put a single drop in a vegetable capsule with carrier oil for internal short-term traditional antimicrobial use - only with expert guidance. Always patch test before broad use.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Oregano oil used for?
Traditional antimicrobial reputation - the focus of substantial modern research on carvacrol's antimicrobial properties.

Why is it so much stronger than oregano herb?
Essential oil is the concentrated steam-distilled aromatic - a single drop can equal a significant quantity of dried herb.

Is it safe to apply to skin?
Only with heavy dilution (no more than 1% in carrier oil). Undiluted application can cause chemical burns.

Can I take it internally?
Only with expert guidance and proper preparation (with carrier oil in a capsule).

What is carvacrol?
The primary phenolic compound in oregano oil with well-studied traditional antimicrobial effects.

Is it safe during pregnancy?
No; not recommended.

This product has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.