How To Prepare Homemade Oregano Oil And What Are Its Benefits
Although its use is almost always limited to cooking, oregano oil can provide certain health benefits, thanks to the properties of its components . We tell you how to prepare it.
Although it sounds strange and you do not have it within your possible natural remedies, the truth is that homemade oregano oil has benefits that range from helping to fight bacteria to reducing inflammation. You did not know? Discover more interesting facts about the properties of this spice and how to prepare it.
Oregano is very popular in kitchens, as it adds a pleasant flavor to preparations. It is usually used directly in food, however it can also be used in oil to maximize its potential in treating some health conditions.
Oil of oregano benefits
It is very common to find oregano in most kitchens and for this to be one of the main ingredients in food preparation. What many do not know is that, in addition to providing flavor, this spice mixed with the properties of vegetable oil has characteristics that can be beneficial to health. Discover them!
Has antioxidant potential
According to a study published in Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity , the ethanolic extract of oregano has antioxidant activity. Therefore, it is said that this spice could have the potential to delay or prevent oxidation caused by free radicals, responsible for cellular aging.
Helps fight bacteria
Oregano can also be considered as a natural alternative to fight certain bacteria. As mentioned in a publication in the International Journal of Odontostomatology , thanks to the antibacterial activity of its components carvacrol and thymol, this plant could act on bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus.
It is worth clarifying that it should be considered an adjuvant of pharmacological antibiotics and not a single treatment in infections. There is no evidence that its application alone is capable of killing bacteria.
Could help against viral infections
In addition to its antibacterial effects, according to research published in the Journal of Applied Microbiology , the carvacrol contained in oregano could protect the body against some viral conditions such as norovirus, an infection that causes diarrhea, nausea and stomach pain.
How to prepare it at home?
Since you know its main benefits, it is time to get down to work. The process to prepare this homemade oregano oil is very simple. In addition, it is a product that is worth having on hand to use whenever necessary. Take note!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup of oregano leaves (50 gr).
- 1/2 cup of olive, grapeseed or almond oil (200 ml).
- Glass container with lid.
Preparation
- To start, wash the oregano leaves and let them dry.
- Next, you must crush them with the help of a mortar or some utensil that serves for this purpose. This is done so that the plant releases all its properties.
- Place them in the glass container, where the mixture will be stored.
- Pour in the oil of your choice and cover the oregano leaves completely. Let it rest for a few minutes.
- Then, bring a pot of water to a boil. Once it boils, turn off the heat and add the jar with the mixture.
- Leave the jar in a water bath for about 10 minutes so that the oil and oregano are incorporated.
- Remove the container from the water, cover it and leave it to store for 2 weeks in a cool, dry place.
- After this time, strain the preparation and you will have your homemade oregano oil ready to give it the use you prefer.
- Do not forget that, in addition to medicinal use, this mixture works very well to give a touch of flavor to foods.
How to use oregano oil?
Although despite all this information its use still seems strange to you, you should know that this oil can be consumed or applied directly to the area you want to treat. For example, for bacterial infections you must dilute 3 drops of the preparation in a glass of water and consume it.
For muscle aches, rheumatism and sprains, you can put a little oil on your hands and massage the part of the body that presents the discomfort. If you wish, include an essential oil that also provides benefits for these conditions.
On the other hand, it is said that inhaling its vapor would work to reduce flu symptoms. When you feel the typical discomfort of a flu or a common cold, take 3 to 6 drops of oil before meals. You can consume it in this dose 3 times a day.
Some recommendations on oregano oil
Before using oregano oil, it is important to make sure that its consumption will not be harmful to health. Although this is considered safe in most cases and in the right doses, there are certain risks for pregnant women, nursing mothers or people with an allergy to this seasoning.
In addition, its excessive consumption could cause palpitations, nervous alterations, depression, drowsiness and drowsiness. Remember that there are no miracle remedies and it is always best to consult your doctor if you suspect a major problem.
