Oregano essential oil should never be used undiluted. Always dilute it in a suitable carrier oil, such as olive oil, almond oil. It is also important, as with any essential oil, to perform a skin patch test before using oregano essential oil for the first time. To perform this simple test, just place a small amount of diluted essential oil on the inside of your elbow and apply a bandage. Wait 24 hours to see if there is any negative reaction, such as redness or irritation.

Oregano essential oil is very concentrated and therefore, a drop or two goes a long way. Usually, it is recommended to start out with a dilution rate of 1 part of Oregano Oil to 3 parts of carrier oil

For fungus, one simple recipe would be to dilute 1 teaspoon oregano essential oil in 2 teaspoons olive oil and apply with a cotton swab to the affected area up to three times a day. You can also treat the body by placing one drop of Oregano Oil to  one 8oz glass of water or juice once or twice day. If you decide to use the under the tongue method, it's a wise soul it is to mix 1 tsp of honey or olive oil with the drop of oil before placing it under the tongue!

Another great idea is to use it in your bath water - but mix a couple drops of the diluted oregano oil with body gel, or shampoo and then add it to the bath water so that it is absorbed better and just doesn't sit on top of the water!

 As a disinfectant, it's hard to beat - as it almost completely eradicates fungus and bacteria - so place a few drops in a spray bottle with a bit of detergent to act as a emulsifier, and spray your countertops!

As a precautionary note - do not use oregano essential oil - topically or internally - if you are pregnant! Nursing mothers should take extreme care as well, as we don't that sweet little baby accidentally ingesting any of this oil!

Topically, oregano essential oil may be irritating to the skin, and can cause burning. So just make sure it is always diluted properly and never use more of a concentration of greater than 1% to any mucous membrane! As with most of the more potent essential oils, children less than 2 years of age should not use it topically or internally.

Always use extreme care and safety when using any essential oil - and always make sure you can trust the supplier you buy your essential oils from. There are many synthetic or diluted essential oils out there on the market - and unreliable companies! Buy from someone you trust!

Numerous university studies have shown that Oil of Oregano is a highly potent purifier that provides many benefits for human health. Oil of Oregano is a natural substance that is extracted from wild oregano plants, and two key compounds found in it are carvacrol and thymol. Studies have shown that both of these compounds have significant effects on harmful microorganisms that cause many illnesses in humans.

It is important not to confuse Oil of Oregano with common oregano that is used as a spice for cooking. Common oregano is typically Origanum Marjoram, while Oil of Oregano is derived from Origanum Vulgare.

Oil of Oregano can be purchased as either a liquid or as capsules/tablets. In both forms, it is important to verify that the oil is derived from the proper potent oregano plant, and that the carvacrol concentration is at least 70%.

What are the Benefits of Oil of Oregano?

The ancient Greeks were one of the first people to recognize oregano oil for its health benefits and medicinal qualities. It is known to be a potent antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, and antiparasitic oil that can reduce pain and inflammation and effectively fight off infections.

Some of the specific benefits of Oil of Oregano are:

Destroying organisms that contribute to skin infections and digestive problems.
Strengthening the immune system.
Increasing joint and muscle flexibility.
Improving respiratory health.

Uses of Oil of Oregano

Skin Infections
Oil of Oregano can be applied directly onto the skin to treat itches, skin infections, and irritated gums, but only if it has been diluted. Always follow the instructions on your particular bottle before applying topically onto the skin, since highly concentrated oils may first need to be mixed with Olive Oil or Coconut Oil before application (usually one teaspoon of Olive Oil or Coconut Oil per one drop of Oil of Oregano).


Digestive Problems
The high concentrations of thymol and carvacrol in Oil of Oregano have been shown to calm upset stomachs and aid digestion. Therefore, a quick home remedy for mild indigestion is to drink a glass of milk or juice that is mixed with 2 or 3 drops of the oil.


Sinus Congestion
Oil of Oregano is a wonderful natural remedy for sinus congestion. A common solution is to add 3 drops of the oil into a glass of juice and drink this mixture daily for 3 to 5 days.


Colds and Sore Throats
Oil of Oregano is an excellent early defense mechanism when you feel a cold or sore throat coming on. Simply take 3 drops of Oregano Oil once per day (you can mix it into a glass of orange juice) and you should notice results within a few hours. Repeat this once per day for up to 5 days until the symptoms are gone.

What are the Side Effects of Oil of Oregano?

While Oil of Oregano has many benefits, there are a few possible side effects:
Oregano oil may reduce the body's ability to absorb iron. Therefore, it is recommended that any regular use be combined with regular consumption of iron supplements. For this reason, women are advised not to take Oil of Oregano during their pregnancy.
Pregnant women should also avoid oil of oregano since it can stimulate blood flow in the uterus, which can weaken the lining that surrounds the fetus in the womb.
People that have allergies to thyme, basil, mint, or sage may be sensitive to Oil of Oregano as well, since they are in the same family of plants. If any skin irritation, rashes, or vomiting occurs when using it, it is recommended that you discontinue use and consult your doctor.

The Oregano Oil we offer at In Ancient Footsteps is from Turkey and is probably the best there is around - it has over 80% carvacrol!!  If you would like to purchase a 5ml or 15ml bottle of pure high quality OREGANO OIL CLICK HERE.