How to make a homemade oregano oil using the oil infusion method for use as a home remedy for common ailments. Making oregano-infused oil at home is very simple, and it’s a great product to know how to use and to keep on hand for use as a natural remedy.
Oregano is commonly referred to as ‘nature’s antibiotic’ because of its antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties which help to protect and fight against various strains of bacteria, yeast and fungi.
In an article by Dr. Josh Axe, DC, DNM, CNS, a certified doctor of natural medicine and clinical nutritionist, he shares how oregano oil ‘contains two powerful compounds called carvacrol and thymol, both of which have been shown in studies to have strong antibacterial and antifungal properties.’
Unlike prescription antibiotics, oregano essential oil is unlikely to cause many of the harmful side effects commonly associated with high antibiotic use, such as an increased risk for antibiotic resistance, the destruction of beneficial probiotic bacteria which in turn can lead to poor gut health, and damage to the gastrointestinal tract lining which can lead to a reduction in vitamin absorption and leaky gut syndrome.
But, oregano oil can do more than just act as a natural antibiotic. It can help improve ailments such as Athlete’s foot, ringworm or toenail fungus, Candida overgrowth, act as a treatment for common colds, sinus infections or allergies, it may help with gingivitis, earaches or toothaches, and assist with digestive problems like heartburn and small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). See here for a guide on using oregano oil to treat common medical conditions.
It’s important to note that oregano oil is highly concentrated, so it should never be used undiluted.



The oregano oil recipe I’ll be sharing with you today is not the same thing as oregano essential oil. It is an infused oil containing many of the same therapeutic properties found in essential oils, but at a much lower concentration, making it a more gentle version of oregano essential oil.
While the oregano leaves are steeping, the natural active resins within the plant are extracted and drawn into the oil, making it a concentrated oil full of the herb’s healing properties.



Who Should Not Take Oregano Oil?
When taking oregano oil internally, it should always be diluted with water or mixed with a carrier oil like olive oil or coconut oil.
It’s recommended that you perform a small patch test first before applying the oregano oil topically (along with a carrier oil to dilute it) onto the skin to prevent any adverse reactions.
Oregano as a dried herb is generally fine for pregnant women, but when it comes to use in oil form, generally speaking, it’s not considered safe to use during pregnancy. When using oregano oil or essential oil, pregnant women should use caution and only use if instructed by their health care practitioner.
If side effects such as nausea, dizziness or any sort of allergic reaction are experienced, stop use immediately, and consider seeing a doctor or health care professional.
Before we get started in learning how to make this homemade oregano-infused oil, if you like what you’re seeing, subscribe to my email newsletter at the bottom of the page to keep up to date on the latest recipes, DIYs, gardening and health tips I share!



How to Dry Fresh Oregano for Use in Oregano Oil
I always recommend using dried herbs when making any sort of herbal infusion, as the oil and herb have to sit for several weeks to infuse. If there is moisture in the herb it can cause bacteria to grow.
Therefore, it’s important to dry the herb beforehand.
To do this, harvest a bunch of fresh organic oregano sprigs from your garden, or collect some oregano from your local farmers market or grocery store, then give it a good wash under running water to remove any impurities. Pat the leaves dry once finished.
From there, take some twine and tie together about five to six sprigs at the bottom of the stalks. If you tie too many in one bundle it will prevent good air flow.
Next, find a spot in your house that stays at room temperature (around 20-25°C or 68-77°F), has good air circulation and not a lot of moisture. Find a spot to hang the bundles upside down, then allow them dry for two to four weeks. The exact timeframe will vary as it really depends on the conditions of your home. It can take anywhere from a couple of weeks to one month.
The oregano will be ready when the leaves and stalks are brittle and fall apart easily (the leaves will crumble when touched).
Once dried, remove the oregano leaves from the stalks (the stems can be composted), then dice or crush up the leaves into small pieces for use in making oregano oil. See the recipe below.




How to Make Oregano-Infused Oil for Ailments
As a general rule, the recommended dosage for oregano oil is around two to three drops at a time, going up to three doses a day.
If you opt to take it daily, it’s recommended to use the oregano oil for no more than two weeks, then take a break for at least a week before resuming.
Do not overdose on this powerful herb, as it can cause irritation and discomfort. This is purely a home remedy for common ailments. If symptoms persist, see a medical professional. Also, consult with your health care professional before taking any new products, home remedies or not, especially if you are already taking prescribed medications or are pregnant or nursing.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup organic dried oregano leaves, stems removed
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 8 ounce glass mason jar
To make:
- Place the dried oregano in a glass jar and pour the olive oil over the top, then stir to combine. Make sure all of the oregano is completely covered by the oil.
- Cap the jar tightly with a lid and place the jar on a sunny windowsill to sit for four to six weeks. Gently shake the oil once or twice daily to help the oil infuse with the oregano.
- After four to six weeks, strain the oil through some cheesecloth or a nut milk bag, and pour the oil into a clean dark glass bottle for storage. Store the oil out of direct sunlight and in a cool, dark, dry place.




As always, this is not personal medical advice and we recommend that you talk with your doctor before trying or using any new products. I am not a doctor. All opinions expressed are my own personal thoughts and feelings of the products mentioned. Check with your doctor or health practitioner if you are uncertain about trying out any of the products, recipes or tips mentioned in this post.
Have you used oregano oil before? Did you find it helpful? Share in the comments below.
Lots of love,
Vanessa