When it comes to staying well through cold and flu season, nature has given us some powerful allies – among them, Oregano Oil.
But why has a plant used regularly in culinary dishes become a popular oil for health and wellness purposes? Does Oil of Oregano really help colds and flu and, if so, how? In this article, you will learn about the ins and outs of Oregano Oil, understanding its secrets for stopping those seasonal bugs from taking over and giving your immunity a pep up.
What is Oregano Oil?
More than just a tasty herb for pizza and pasta dishes, the Oregano plant has been working wellness wonders for a long time.
Rich in plant compounds known to support immunity, it’s been used for centuries to help the body fend off infections, soothe symptoms, and recover faster. Once its leaves are steam distilled into an essential oil, this herb stands up strong as an ox on multiple levels, thanks to two incredible natural compounds: carvacrol and thymol.
And what do they do? All sorts of good things – from calming fungal infections to improving gut health. Yet perhaps their better-known benefits are in immunity, helping the body work at its optimum best and in the process, fighting viruses like the common cold.
Today, Oregano Oil is often used as a natural remedy for skin and nail concerns, digestive support, and respiratory health, as well as its immune-boosting reputation. Its versatility has made it a staple in many natural wellness kits – particularly during the colder months when colds and flu are at their peak.
But how does it work?
How Oregano Oil Supports Immunity (Colds & Flu)
The power of Oregano Oil comes from its key natural compounds, especially carvacrol and thymol, which are known for their antiviral, antibacterial, and antioxidant qualities. Here’s how they can support your body during colds and flu:
Helps fight off viruses & bacteria
- Research shows how key constituent carvacrol disrupts the protective membranes of harmful bacteria and viruses, with a landmark study published in 2013 confirming Oregano Oil’s effectiveness against more than 20 bacterial strains.
- This naturally occurring compound may reduce the spread and severity of infections, helping your immune system stay on top of illness.
- Together with other components like thymol, Oregano works to support your body’s defences in keeping colds and flu at bay.
Supports respiratory health
- Oregano Oil acts as a natural expectorant, helping to loosen mucus and clear congestion from the airways.
- By easing irritation in the throat and lungs, it may reduce the discomfort of persistent coughing.
- Its soothing qualities can make breathing feel easier and more comfortable when you’re battling cold or flu symptoms.
Natural antioxidant support
- Thymol and other antioxidants in Oregano help protect healthy cells from oxidative stress, which tends to increase during illness.
- This protection allows the body to preserve energy and focus on recovery instead of managing excess cellular damage.
- Antioxidants also play a role in reducing inflammation, which can ease overall discomfort while the immune system is under strain.
Eases cold & flu symptoms
- The soothing nature of Oregano Oil may help ease sinus-related headaches.
- By reducing nasal congestion, it can bring relief from pressure and help restore easier breathing.
- Many people also report a gentle lift in energy, which can be valuable when fighting off fatigue and weakness from illness.
Together, these benefits highlight why Oregano Oil is considered one of the best essential oils for immune health and relief from sniffly viral infections. No wonder it’s so heavily relied on as a natural remedy for cold and flu symptoms!
Why Choose Oregano Oil for Cold and Flu Symptoms?
It’s all too easy when a cold kicks in to head down the chemists and spend big on medicines that promise immediate relief. While some are helpful when fighting cold and flu bugs, this isn’t everyone’s solution to overcoming the sniffles – not when you’re keener on natural ways to look after your health.
On top of Oregano giving your immunity a boost and fighting against colds and respiratory infections, there are more reasons to choose Oregano Oil vs. over-the-counter cold remedies:
- Natural and plant-based – Oregano Essential Oil comes straight from the herb, with no synthetic additives or artificial flavours, giving you a more holistic approach to supporting your immune system.
- Supports overall wellness – Unlike a single-purpose medicine, Oregano Oil’s compounds, like carvacrol and thymol, can help with immune function, respiratory comfort, and gut health.
- Customisable use – You can incorporate Oregano Oil into inhalations or diluted topical applications, tailoring your approach to your symptoms and preferences.
- Sustainable choice – Using plant-based products contributes to a more eco-conscious lifestyle, supporting natural health solutions over mass-produced chemical options.
How to Use Oregano Oil for Colds & Flu
There are several ways you can use Oregano Oil for cold virus, flus symptoms or as an immune booster to prevent catching them. Here are some of our favourite DIY remedies:
- Diffuse: Add a few drops to an aromatherapy diffuser and let the herbaceous aroma fill your environment, helping to boost immunity as you breathe in its natural properties.
- Topically/On The Go: Add 3-5 drops of Oregano Essential Oil to a 15ml roller bottle and top with Fractionated Coconut Oil to create an on-the-go roller blend. Apply to your wrists, temples, behind your ears & bottoms of your feet.
- Fast Remedy: Add 1-2 drops of Oregano Essential Oil to a tissue and inhale at a distance while ensuring that the oil does not come into direct contact with your skin. Alternatively, you can smell the oil directly from the bottle!
- Chest Rub: Dilute a few drops in a carrier oil of choice – try Jojoba, known for its skin friendly properties – and apply gently to the chest area to relieve congestion.
- Steam inhalation: Another popular and effective method for decongesting the airways! Add a few drops of Oregano Essential Oil to a bowl of hot water, then place a towel over your head to capture the steam as you bend your head towards the bowl and breathe in deeply through your nose. Continue to breathe in (and out through your mouth) for 5 minutes.
Safe Use of Oregano Oil
While essential oils are natural products, they are extremely potent and can cause serious harm if used incorrectly. For this reason, we recommend the following:
- In line with the Therapeutic Goods Act, we do not recommend ingesting Oregano Essential Oil without the guidance of a registered Aromatherapist or Naturopath.
- Avoid using Oregano Oil during pregnancy and while breastfeeding.
- We recommend storing your Oregano Oil in a cool, dry place at room temperature, ensuring that they are not directly exposed to sunlight and are out of reach of children or pets.
- Essential Oils are highly concentrated and likely to cause irritation or reactions if applied directly to the skin. For this reason, it is important to first dilute your oils before using them topically (on the skin). See our topical dilution guide for more information about safe use.
Topical Dilution Guide
Because Oregano Oil is particularly potent, the recommended topical application is less than the regular recommended amount. Please note that these guidelines are recommended for healthy adults:
- General Use: 1 – 2% dilution (2 – 4 drops per 10ml)
- Facial Application: 0.5 – 1% dilution (1 – 2 drops per 10ml)
Where to Buy High Quality Oregano Oil
Essential oils like Oregano can be found at many health, wellness, and retail outlets, but their quality and purity often differ. That’s why it’s important to source from a trusted supplier - like AWO!
Our collection includes a broad range of 100% pure essential oils and carrier oils at competitive prices. By buying our stock in bulk, we keep costs low and pass the savings on to you. Plus, with our operations based right here in Australia, you can be confident about shopping locally from a reputable brand.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the recommended Oregano Oil dosage for flu?
Oregano Essential Oil is a powerful natural ally, but because it’s so concentrated in it’s essential oil form, Oregano should be used for inhalation or diluted and used topically only., Some people dilute a few drops in a carrier oil for topical use, while others prefer adding a drop or two to a diffuser for respiratory comfort. It’s considered safe to use externally when following guidelines for topical use.
Is there a good dosage of Oil of Oregano for colds?
Oregano Essential Oil is naturally potent, so a little goes a long way. For external use, it can be diluted in a carrier oil and applied to the chest, back, or soles of the feet. Start with a small amount to see how your skin responds and always follow safe dilution guidelines for topical application. This approach provides the soothing, aromatic benefits of Oregano Essential Oil while keeping it safe for topical use. You can also add Oregano Oil to a diffuser and appreciate its benefits by inhalation.
What are the side effects of using oregano oil for colds?
Oregano oil is a potent essential oil, and some people may experience mild skin irritation, redness, or a tingling sensation if it’s applied too concentrated. Always dilute properly and perform a patch test before use. While it’s commonly used topically, oral consumption isn’t recommended without professional guidance, especially for children, pregnant or breastfeeding individuals. Following these precautions ensures you can enjoy its benefits safely.