Oil Of Oregano

I bought some local fresh organic oregano at the market last weekend and finally did something with it!

This powerful medicine is naturally anti-inflammatory, a natural pain-killer, can help relieve congestion when breathe in, is great topically for bug bites or burns & even for inflammatory conditions like fibromyalgia or arthritis. Taken internally it can kill fungus, bacteria & weaken viruses. You can also rub it on the outside (not inside!) of your ear to help fight ear aches or on your gums for tooth pain. ⚡ There really are so many benefits to using this beautiful herb. 

INGREDIENTS:

• a large bunch of oregano – about 2 cups loose packed leaves
• 1 cup organic extra virgin olive oil
• a mortar + pestle or muddler
• a glass container with a lid

DIRECTIONS:

1. Carefully wash the oregano and pat it dry. Remove the leaves from the stems until you have about 2 cups worth of leaves.
2. Transfer about a 1/2 cup of the oregano leaves to the mortar & pestle and start pressing them into each other. You want to get them good and smooshed so the cell walls burst and they release their oils.
3. They’ll shrink down quite a bit. Add the rest of the leaves about a 1/2 cup at a time, until all 2 cups have been smooshed up.
   
4. Add your squished leaves into your jar and pour the oil over the leaves.
5. Add in the organic olive oil, give it a stir and put on the lid. Now you wait.
6. The oil will need to infuse for at least a week, but ideally two. Keep it in a cool place away from direct sunlight, and give it a little swirl every few days. It will darken to a rich brown color.
7. When it’s finished infusing, strain the oil using cheesecloth or a nut milk bag. Store the oil in a glass jar with a tight fitting lid, in the refrigerator, and administer as needed.