It's Cold and Flu season and time to make Oil of Oregono

The kids are back in school which means the cold and flu bugs are being passed around the classrooms and then coming home to you and the rest of the family.  It is this time of year that I especially make sure that I have oil of oregano made up and ready. (As a mom of 4, this year, I was behind the time and made it up today) 

Medicinal Uses of Oil of Oregano:
Oil of Oregano is rich in polyphenolic flavonoids.  The two main ones are called Carvacrol and Thymol. (Thyme also contains these two flavonoids) These two flavonoids work as great antiseptics.  Research has shown that Oil of Oregano is effective in treating chronic candida infections.  

DID YOU KNOW
Oregano is a natural anti-inflammator and pain killer.  Used internally oil of oregano will weaken virus.  Helps kill fungal infections, for toenail fungus place directly under and on the toenail daily until issues resolves.  Used topically to treat acne.

There are many more uses check the web for other great ideas on where an how you can use this great herb.

(Note: Direct contact with oregano essential oil CAN CAUSE MILD BURNS, avoid irritation by mixing with olive oil.  Oregano oil can be used internally or externally by capsule or diluted extract or infusions.  Not to be used if you are pregnant.  This is a homeopathic remedy that I use in my home. Before you use this product to treat any medical condition you should consult your healtcare professional.  DO NOT uses if you are pregnant or nursing.)

Witchy Uses of Oil of Oregano:

Ruled by Venus
Magical Uses: happiness, tranquility, luck, health, protection and letting go of a loved one.  It can also be used to strengthen an existing love. 

Planting it in the front of your home is said to keep negative magic away. Washing your walls down with a cleanser made with oregano is said to cleanse and protect your home.

Recipe: this is an infusion not an essential oil

1/2 c. fresh organic (if possible) oregano

1/2 c. organic olive oil

sterile jar

hot water

and a sunny place for it to rest.

Clean and wash your oregano and remove leaves from stalks. Pat dry. Discard stalks

 While you are preparing your herbs boil your jars and lid for 10 minutes to sterilize.

Place leaves in baggie and crush to release the oils from the leaf.  I use a hammer :)

Once Jars are sterile remove them and place fresh mashed up herb and oil in jar.

 Put lid on jar and place jar in the hot water that is turned off on your stove.  Leave on stove for 10 minutes. Remove carefully because it is really HOT and place in a sunny window for 2 weeks. Shaking every couple of days to help release more oils.

Once the 2 weeks is up strain the oil and oregano mixture.  Place oil in sterile jar and keep in a cool dry place for up to 3 months.  If it looks moldy or murky discard, if in doubt throw it out. Some people like to store their infused oils in a fridge but that isn't me :)