Oregano oil provides a number of health benefits, and you will be able to buy this oil at several shops, as well as online markets. Most of the oils can be made at home by following the preparation process thoroughly. The home made oils are obviously more beneficial, as they are devoid of unwanted chemicals. So, many of us might want to know how to make oregano oil, and what are its applications.
Sometimes, we might not have the time and energy to make these oils at home. During such instances, our only option is to get these oils from local shops or online stores. But, if you are someone who prefers using home made products, and have plenty of spare time, then you can definitely make these oils at your home.
The oregano oil can be prepared by two methods, and here, we will be discussing in detail about both these methods. You can go through each one of them, and then select the method that works for you. Lastly, we will be looking at the applications, or benefits of the oregano oil.
See how to make oregano oil (heated)
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Oregano oil can be prepared using two methods, and here, we will be learning how to make heated oregano oil. In this process, you will need 1/2 cup dried oregano, and 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil. Along with that, you will also require a sterilized glass jar and lid.
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Thereafter, you have to put the oregano in the glass jar and then, cover it to the top with olive oil. It is recommended that you use equal amounts of both dried oregano and olive oil.
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Followed by that, you must give it a good stir to combine the two ingredients properly. Before sealing the jar with the lid, you should adjust the olive oil if needed.
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Then, you should boil some water in a pot. There must be sufficient water to completely cover the jar. Once the water starts to boil, you have to place the jar in it, and turn off the burner. The whole arrangement should sit like this for 10 minutes.
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During this time, the natural oils will be released from the oregano. Then, you need to take the jar out from the water bath, and then shake it for sometime. You should check the lid, and tighten it if needed.
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Thereafter, you must store the jar in a cool, dry place for about 2 weeks. The windowsill can be considered as a great location for this purpose. You must give it a shake daily.
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You have to strain the oil from the oregano after about 2 weeks, and then, pour the oil into a dispensing bottle, or an airtight glass jar.
How to make oregano oil using the cold-pressed method?
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If you prefer, you can also make the oregano oil using the cold-pressed method. In this case also, you need to gather 1/2 cup dried oregano, 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil and a sterilized glass jar with a lid.
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After collecting the necessary supplies, you have to put the oregano into the sterilized glass jar, and pour the oil into it. You must make sure that the oregano is completely covered with the oil.
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Then you have to put the lid on and seal the jar. Before that, you must stir the ingredients properly to combine them. If needed, you should also adjust the quantity of olive oil so that all the oregano leaves are submerged in the oil.
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Followed by that, you should keep the jar in a dark place for about two weeks. It must be stored away from the sunlight. After every two days, you should give the jar a good shake to mix everything thoroughly.
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About two weeks later, you will notice that the color of the oil has become green. This color change indicates that the oil is ready for use.
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Finally, you need to strain the leaves using a sieve and then, pour the oil into a clean and sterile container. Thereafter, you must seal the container using an airtight lid.
Applications of oregano oil
Now that we know how to make oregano oil using two different methods, let’s take a look at the applications of this oil.
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You can use the oregano oil for sore muscles, and joint pain. In this case, you have to mix 1 drop of oregano oil with 1 teaspoon of olive oil, and then massage the oil mixture into the affected area of your body.
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This oil can also be used as a health supplement. To take this oil orally, you have to first take a sip of water. Then holding it in the mouth, you need to pour 1 to 3 drops of oregano oil into this water. Then, you must swallow it and drink more water if needed. Alternatively, you can also add 2 to 3 drops of oregano oil into a cup of water and then drink it.
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If you want, you can use this oil for gargling purposes. For this, you have to add a drop of oregano oil into ½ cup of water. Then, you can use this water for gargling. You can also add a few drops of oregano oil into a pot of boiling water, and then inhale the steam.
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You can use the oregano oil for treating a number of skin conditions such as toe fungus or warts. Here, you need to take equal parts oregano oil and olive oil. Thereafter, you have to apply the oil mixture to the affected area using a cotton swab.
Conclusion
We have discussed how to make oregano oil, and what are its applications. As we can see, the oregano oil can be prepared by two methods, and both the processes will yield good quality oregano oil. You should store this oil in a dark, dry place if you want to use it for several months. In case you want more shelf life, then you must store it in the refrigerator. Adding a few drops of lemon oil will help in enhancing the shelf life of the oregano oil.