Description
Origanum Essential Oil
BOTANICAL NAME: Origanum vulgare L.
PLANT PART: Leaves and Stems
ORIGIN: Spain
EXTRACTION METHOD: Steam distilled
DESCRIPTION: A thin, pale yellow to reddish or brownish liquid.
AROMATIC SUMMARY: A middle note with a strong aroma, this oil has a spicy but dry and woody aroma with earthy notes.
BLENDS WITH: Herbal and woody essential oils such as Cypress, Marjoram, Rosemary, and the more camphorous floral oils such as Lavender.
BENEFITS AND USES: Oregano oil is one of the most potent and powerful essential oils and has been used for centuries in traditional practices. Due to its high phenol content, caution should be taken when inhaling or diffusing Oregano essential oil; only one to two drops is needed, contains properties that are antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal.
FACTS OF INTEREST: Also known as Oregano and Wild Marjoram, its name is from the Greek ‘joy of the mountains’ and is a common species from the mint family. It is native to the Mediterranean basin and Asia. A perennial herb, it grows from 20–80 cm tall, with leaves of up to 4 cm, and has purple, spikey flowers. The ancient Egyptians used it in food preservation, and Hippocrates used it in his medical practice. Oregano has been a popular culinary herb in Europe since time immemorial, and became popular in North America after WWII when returning soldiers posted to Italy brought back a taste for pizza.
Cautions: Due to its high phenol content, caution should be taken when inhaling or diffusing Oregano essential oil; only one to two drops is needed,always dilute with carrier oil before applying to skin. For external use only. Keep out of reach of children. Avoid contact with eyes, inner ears, and sensitive areas.
