Did you know the same oregano that flavours your favourite dishes also produces an oil celebrated for its natural antifungal powers?
Oregano Oil has long been valued in traditional wellness, and today it’s gaining plenty of attention as a plant-based solution to fungal concerns. In this article, we’ll uncover what makes this humble herb such a potent ally and why it’s increasingly used as a natural remedy to keep fungal infections in check.
Understanding Oregano Oil
Oregano isn’t just a flavour booster for pizza and pasta. It has long been valued in traditional medicine for its ability to combat unwanted microbes, particularly as a natural aid for colds, flu, and immune support over several centuries.
What’s perhaps less widely known is its potential in addressing fungal concerns. Once distilled into an essential oil, Oregano contains naturally occurring compounds that give it strong antifungal and antimicrobial properties, making it an option for those seeking a plant-based solution to fungal issues or nail infections.
So, while many still turn to Oregano Oil for seasonal bugs, it’s a fast-growing fungal-fighting reputation bumping it up the popularity charts, with more people exploring its role in tackling persistent fungal problems – particularly those who prefer natural solutions over the chemical-filled creams and ointments sold at the pharmacists.
Does Oregano Oil Kill Fungus?
Essential oils are used in multiple ways, with several known to help fight fungus on the body – and Oregano Oil has recently become one of the most popular.
But how does Oregano kill fungus? It’s down to a highly potent chemical makeup, including these two naturally occurring components:
- Carvacrol: The standout components in Oregano Oil, carvacrol is a powerful phenol credited with much of the oil’s wellness potential. It’s particularly known for its strong antimicrobial activity, helping to stop the growth of bacteria and fungi.
- Thymol: This companion compound adds further strength, offering antioxidant and cleansing qualities. Thymol also plays a role in Oregano Oil’s ability to defend against fungal infections. And does this fungal-fighting capacity actually work? Several studies of Oregano Oil for fungal infections will tell you yes!
For example, a 2020 clinical study tested a topical oil blend containing Oregano Oil on people with nail fungus and found it was effective and well tolerated for mild to moderate conditions.
Elsewhere, a study by Johns Hopkins/Harvard found Oregano Oil was one of the most potent essential oils against skin fungi like Trichophyton, completely stopping growth for 21 days under test conditions.
It seems there is much more to this herb than a pizza topper!
Benefits of Oregano Oil for Fungal Infections
The antifungal power of Oregano Oil comes from its rich natural compounds, working together to break down the cell membranes and limit growth. Here’s how it can help benefit common fungal concerns and support recovery when used safely:
Oregano Oil for nail fungus
- Many people turn to Oregano Oil as a natural option for healthier nails. Its ability to penetrate nail layers makes it a useful companion for addressing the thickening, brittleness, and discolouration linked with nail fungus.
Oregano Oil for toenail fungus
- Conditions like Athlete’s Foot and ringworm often bring itching, redness, and irritation. Oregano Oil’s antifungal and soothing properties may help calm these symptoms while discouraging further fungal spread when applied in diluted form.
Oregano Oil for fungal acne
- Unlike bacterial acne, fungal acne stems from yeast overgrowth on the skin. Oregano Oil’s natural cleansing action may help limit this imbalance, supporting clearer skin and reducing flare-ups when incorporated carefully into skincare routines.
How to Use Oregano Oil to Fight Fungal Infection
Now that you know how Oregano Oil works against different types of fungal infections, you might be wondering how to use it at home. Because Oregano Oil is highly concentrated, it’s best blended with a carrier oil or added to simple, natural remedies that make it easier (and safer) to apply.
Here are a few DIY recipes to try.
How to use Oregano Oil for nail fungus
Nail Oil Blend: Add 2 drops of Oregano Essential Oil to 1 teaspoon of Olive Oil or Fractionated Coconut Oil. Mix well and apply a thin layer directly to the affected nail once daily. Allow it to absorb before putting on socks or shoes.
Nail Soak: Combine 3–4 drops of Oregano Oil with 2 cups of warm water and 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar (optional for extra antifungal support). Soak your nails for 10–15 minutes, then dry thoroughly. Repeat several times per week.
How to use Oregano Oil for skin fungus
Skin Oil: Mix 1 drop of Oregano Essential Oil with 1 teaspoon of Jojoba Oil or Almond Oil. Apply lightly to the affected area 1–2 times daily. Avoid broken skin and always patch-test first to check for sensitivity.
Skin Spritz: Add 5 drops of Oregano Oil to 2 tablespoons of Witch Hazel or Aloe Vera Juice and ½ cup of distilled water. Shake well in a spray bottle and spritz onto areas prone to fungal irritation, such as feet or skin folds.
Safe Use of Oregano Oil
While essential oils are natural products, they are highly 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 suggest 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.
Oregano Oil Topical Dilution Guide
Because Oregano Oil is particularly potent, the recommended topical application is less than the regular amount for essential oils. Please note that these guidelines are based on use by 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 Oregano Oil
You can find essential oils like Oregano in many health, wellness, and retail outlets, but their quality and purity differ vastly. That’s why it’s important to source your oils from a reputable supplier - like AWO!
Our collection includes a wide range of 100% pure essential oils and carrier oils at competitive prices, including Oregano Oil. By purchasing our stock in bulk, we keep costs low and pass those savings on to you. Plus, with our operations based right here in Australia, you can be confident about shopping locally from a trusted brand.
FAQs
Is Oregano Oil good for nail fungus?
Absolutely! Oregano Oil is a popular natural option for supporting nail health. Its antifungal properties may help reduce thickening, discolouration, and brittleness associated with nail fungus. Used in a diluted nail oil or soak, it can be aligned with conventional treatments to support healthier-looking nails over time.
Will Oregano Oil kill toenail fungus?
If you’ve experienced toenail fungus, you’ll know how persistent it can be. While Oregano Oil isn’t a guaranteed cure on its own, its natural antifungal action may help limit fungal growth and improve the condition of affected nails. Applying it in diluted topical blends or soaks consistently, combined with good nail hygiene, can make it a helpful addition to your fungal care routine.
Can Oregano Oil be used on skin fungus?
Yes, Oregano Oil can be used topically on areas affected by fungal skin conditions like Athlete’s Foot, ringworm, or fungal acne. Always dilute it with a carrier oil or in a spray/soak mixture and do a patch test first to check for sensitivity. Regular use may help reduce itching, irritation, and the spread of fungal spots. a