OREGANO ESSENTIAL OIL
A powerful aromatic oil with an intense, warm, herbaceous and spicy character.
Botanical Information
Botanical Name: Origanum vulgare
Common Name: Oregano
Family: Lamiaceae (Labiatae)
Origin of Plant: Europe, the Mediterranean and Western Asia
Method of Extraction: Steam distilled from the flowering tops and leaves
Note: Middle
Colour: Clear to pale yellow
Aroma: Strong, warm, herbaceous and spicy
About This Essential Oil
Oregano Essential Oil is steam distilled from Origanum vulgare. Its intense herbaceous aroma is used sparingly in specialist aromatic and household fragrance formulations. Chemical composition varies considerably between chemotypes and batches. Oils rich in carvacrol or thymol can strongly irritate skin and mucous membranes, so this is not an everyday topical or bath oil.
Key Benefits
• Provides an intense, warm and herbaceous aroma
• Adds powerful character to aromatic compositions
• Suitable for specialist fragrance formulations
• Used sparingly in household aromatic products
• Complements selected herbaceous and spice oils
• Best reserved for experienced formulators
History
Oregano has a long history as a culinary and customary herb across the Mediterranean and Europe. The name is commonly linked to Greek words associated with mountain and joy, although translations vary. Historical use of the whole herb does not establish that concentrated Oregano Essential Oil treats disease. Sweet Marjoram is botanically and chemically distinct and should not be treated as an interchangeable safety substitute without formulation review.
Main Chemical Components
75% Phenols, 12% Monoterpenes
Aromatic Characteristics
• Strong and herbaceous
• Warm and spicy
• Sharp and penetrating
• Persistent middle aromatic note
Aromatic Uses
• Adds intensity to specialist aromatic blends
• Provides a strong herbal-spice character
• Used sparingly in household fragrance products
• Complements selected woody and herbaceous oils
• Requires product-specific formulation limits
Aromatic Profile
• Often described as powerful and stimulating
• Opens with sharp green-herbal notes
• Develops warm, dry and spicy nuances
Blends Well With
Basil, Black Pepper, Cedarwood, Eucalyptus, Lavender, Lemon, Pine, Rosemary and Tea Tree. Use sparingly.
Health & Safety
• External aromatic use only; do not ingest or apply undiluted.
• Not recommended for routine topical use, massage or baths.
• May severely irritate skin, eyes and mucous membranes.
• Follow the supplier's dermal limit and product-specific safety data.
• Seek qualified formulation advice before topical application.
• Avoid use around babies and children; seek age-specific advice.
• Seek qualified advice for pregnancy, breastfeeding or medical conditions.
• Diffuse in very small amounts, intermittently and with good ventilation.
• Stop if irritation, coughing, headache, nausea or breathing discomfort occurs.
• Oxidised oil may sensitise; keep tightly closed and use fresh oil.
• Keep from children and animals; store below 25°C away from sunlight and heat.
