Oregano Essential Oil

Oregano Essential Oil is produced by steam distillation of the flowering aerial parts of Origanum vulgare. It has a intensely strong, hot herbaceous aroma with spicy, phenolic, and medicinal notes and is generally considered a middle note in aromatic formulations.

Four Primary Constituents and Typical Ranges

• Carvacrol: approximately 60–80%
• Thymol: approximately 2–8%
• p-Cymene: approximately 5–15%
• γ-Terpinene: approximately 2–10%

These are representative natural ranges rather than guaranteed batch values. Composition varies with plant variety or chemotype, growing region, harvest, processing, distillation, storage, and the individual production batch.

Common Uses and Aromatic Properties

This essential oil is commonly used in very small amounts in adult cleansing preparations, seasonal diffusion, household products, and warming topical formulations. In aromatherapy, it is traditionally valued for strongly cleansing, warming, stimulating, deodorizing, and antioxidant properties. These descriptions refer to customary aromatic and cosmetic use and are not claims that the oil diagnoses, treats, cures, or prevents disease.

Adult Dilution and Use

This is a hot oil. Keep topical use at or below approximately 1%, equal to no more than 2 drops in 10 mL of carrier; 0.5% is preferable for routine use. Drop measurements are approximate because drop size varies by oil and dispenser. Begin with the lowest effective dilution and perform a patch test before broader use.

Use With Children

Not recommended for children. Do not use essential oils routinely with children under age 2 unless directed by a pediatric healthcare professional or qualified clinical aromatherapist. Never place essential oils in or near a child's eyes, nose, mouth, ears, or hands.

Safety Precautions

Can strongly irritate and sensitize skin and mucous membranes. Never apply undiluted. Avoid during pregnancy and nursing, with anticoagulants or bleeding disorders, and on damaged or highly sensitive skin. For external and aromatic use only. Do not ingest unless specifically directed by a properly qualified healthcare professional. Avoid the eyes and mucous membranes, keep out of reach of children, and discontinue use if irritation or breathing discomfort occurs.