MAIN PROPERTIES
Its effectiveness is mainly due to its high content of carvacrol and thymol, substances with strong antimicrobial properties.
Antimicrobial & Antiviral action: Fights bacteria, viruses and fungi. It is often used to strengthen the immune system during colds or flu.
Digestive Health: Helps treat bloating, intestinal parasites and food poisoning.
Anti-inflammatory properties: Can reduce inflammation in the body and relieve pain.
Respiratory System: Helps soothe symptoms of asthma and bronchitis.
COOKING & CONFECTIONERY
Oregano essential oil can replace dried oregano, offering a "fresher" and more intense flavor.
Pasta & Pizza Sauces: Add 1-2 drops at the end of cooking to prevent the aroma from evaporating.
Meat & Fish Marinades: Mix with olive oil, lemon and garlic to marinate lamb, chicken or fish.
Salads & Dressings: Add 1 drop to the olive oil of a Greek Salad or to an olive oil-based dressing.
Oregano Oil (Dipping Oil): Mix 1-2 drops in 1/4 cup olive oil to dip warm bread.
Soups & Legumes: Add to hot (not boiled) soups, such as lentils, to enhance the flavor.
Roasted Vegetables: Drizzle or lightly stir 1 drop into olive oil and drizzle over vegetables such as eggplant, zucchini or cauliflower before roasting.
Although less common, oregano essential oil can be used in savory pastries or snacks.
Savory Breadsticks & Crackers: A few drops in the dough for aromatic breadsticks.
Cheese/Olive Bread: Adds an excellent aroma to the dough.
Combination with Honey: One drop in a tablespoon of honey can be used as a topping on savory cheeses (e.g. grilled manouri or feta).
DOSAGE
Ratio: 1 drop of oregano essential oil corresponds to approximately 1 tablespoon of dried oregano.
Addition: Add the oil at the end of cooking, as high temperature destroys the aroma and flavor.
Dilution: Never consume it neat. Always dilute it in olive oil or another base oil.
DIRECTIONS AND PRECAUTIONS
Dilution: Dilution in a carrier oil (e.g. olive oil) or water is necessary.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Avoid use, as it may be harmful to the fetus.
Children: Not recommended for children under 2 years of age (some sources also recommend avoiding it in older children without medical advice).
Drug interactions: Due to its natural anticoagulant action, people taking anticoagulant medications or about to undergo surgery should consult a doctor.
Oregano essential oil is highly concentrated and should never be consumed undiluted, as it can cause burns to the mucous membranes.
Internal use: The usual dose is 1 to 2 drops dissolved in a large glass of water, juice, or a tablespoon of olive oil, 1-2 times a day.
Duration: Its intake should not exceed 10 consecutive days. It is recommended to pause for a few days before the next use.
For sore throat: It can be used for gargling (1 drop in water) up to 3 times a day.
Note: Before any use for therapeutic purposes, consult your doctor or pharmacist.