Last Updated on August 4, 2023 by Tabraiz
Whether it’s the herb itself or its oil, oregano is full of nutrients and has been shown to support many health conditions. You can include it in your diet through fresh leaves and dried powder, but oregano oil is the most effective and potent way to use it medicinally. In this article, we are going to cover how oregano oil is made and how to choose an oregano oil supplement.
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How is Oregano Oil Made?
Oregano oil is an essential oil that’s extracted from the leaves of the wild Greek oregano plant. The extraction process begins by harvesting the wild oregano, drying it out, crushing it into small pieces and then putting them into an extraction machine. The machine uses high-pressure water to break down these dried leaves into smaller particles that are later collected and put through a distillation process (instead of heating them up like other methods). This mixture is then combined with a carrier oil.
How Does Carvacrol Work?
Carvacrol is the main active ingredient in oregano oil and is responsible for its potent antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-fungal properties. It is effective against many different types of bacteria, including: Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Escherichia coli (E.coli), Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Candida albicans (yeast infections), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (gastrointestinal infections) and Aspergillus niger, amongst many others.
Oregano oil also contains other compounds that may contribute to its anti-inflammatory effects, including thymol, caryophyllene oxide and terpinen-4-ol.
Oregano Varieties
There are over 40 varieties of oregano plants that grow throughout Europe, Asia and North America. However, only two types are used commercially in making essential oils: Origanum vulgare (European) & Origanum compactum (Greek). Both shrubs have similar characteristics but there are some slight differences between each one’s chemical profile. European has greater levels of thymol while Greek contains more carvacrol than its counterpart does, both having anti-fungal properties with thymol being more effective against viruses like the influenza virus whereas carvacrol can help fight off bacterial infections such as staphylococcus infections because it inhibits growth at different stages within their life cycle.
Oregano Oil Capsules
If you’re not a fan of the taste and smell of oregano oil, capsules are a great option. Oregano oil capsules come in different strengths and are very convenient to take. Capsules also make it easy for you to take them with food or on an empty stomach. If you have trouble swallowing pills; however, this might not be the best choice for you.
Additionally, oregano oil capsules are more convenient for travel. Oregano oil capsule dosing is very similar to that of oil. If you’re using it for colds and flu, a good starting point is one capsule three times daily.
North American Herb and Spice is the original formulator of oregano and has a potent oregano capsule, Oregamax. It’s made from raw, wild Rhus berries and is 5 stars amongst consumers.
Oregano Oil Liquid
If you’re looking for a more potent way to consume oregano oil, there’s nothing better than liquid. Liquid oregano oil contains all of the benefits of capsules without any fillers or other synthetic ingredients.
Unlike capsules, liquid products don’t have to be digested before they can take effect, they are absorbed directly into your bloodstream. Additionally, if you don’t like swallowing pills, oregano oil is best.
When using oregano oil in liquid form, start with four drops daily with food. Your health care practitioner may recommend that you increase your dose, depending on your symptoms. North American Herb and Spice also makes a liquid oregano oil, Oreganol P-73. This oil is cold-pressed, steam distilled and made with 100% Mediterranean oregano.
In short, while both liquid and capsule forms of oregano oil are potent natural remedies, they aren’t identical. Liquid oregano oil has a more potent, concentrated flavour and will taste more bitter. Of course, the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference. Choose whatever makes you feel best about taking oregano oil! And regardless of which format of oregano oil you choose, use oregano oil for a maximum of seven days to avoid damaging your gut flora.
Disclaimer: The information in this article is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered as a substitute for medical advice. Please consult your practitioner prior to taking herbs.
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