Oregano oil, also sold as oil of oregano, is an oil extracted from the leaves of the oregano plant, Origanum vulgare. In supplements it is diluted in a carrier oil and sealed in softgels for measured daily use. At Probiotic.ie we stock oregano oil softgels standardised for carvacrol content, shipped from Dublin with tracked delivery across Ireland.
Oregano oil: key facts
- Plant: Origanum vulgare, a member of the mint family (Lamiaceae), also known as wild marjoram
- Main compounds: carvacrol and thymol, the natural phenols that give oregano its sharp aroma
- Supplement form: oregano oil or extract diluted in a carrier oil, usually olive oil, in softgels
- Label terms: "standardised to 55% carvacrol" and "10:1 extract" describe concentration, not effect
- Regulation in Ireland: sold as a food supplement under Irish and EU food law, overseen by the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI)
- Health claims: no health claim is authorised in the EU for oregano. Claims for plant ingredients remain under review at EU level
What is oregano oil?
Oregano is a herb native to the Mediterranean, best known as a cooking ingredient. Its leaves contain an aromatic oil that can be extracted and concentrated. That oil is used in food flavourings, in the essential oil trade and in food supplements.
The oil's character comes mainly from two compounds, carvacrol and thymol. Supplement manufacturers often state the carvacrol percentage on the label so buyers can compare concentration between products.
Oil of oregano vs oregano essential oil
These terms are often used interchangeably, but the products are different.
-
Oregano essential oil is the pure, highly concentrated oil, usually sold in small dropper bottles for aromatherapy. Undiluted essential oils are not intended to be swallowed.
-
Oregano oil supplements, also sold as oil of oregano, contain a measured amount of oregano oil or extract diluted in a carrier oil and sealed in a softgel. They are made and labelled for oral use as food supplements.
Always check the label to confirm a product is intended to be taken by mouth.
What does "wild oregano oil" mean?
"Wild" usually means the oregano was harvested from plants growing naturally, often in Mediterranean regions, rather than cultivated on farms. It describes the source of the plant. It is not a regulated term and does not on its own indicate strength. Compare products on carvacrol content and amount per softgel instead.
Oregano oil supplements available in Ireland
Both products contain gelatin and are not suitable for vegetarians or vegans. Figures are as stated by each manufacturer.
How to compare oregano oil capsules
1. Carvacrol percentage
A stated carvacrol percentage, such as 55%, tells you how much of the oil is carvacrol. It is the most direct way to compare concentration between products.
2. Extract ratio
A ratio such as 10:1 means ten parts of oregano were used to make one part of extract. Ratios describe how the extract was made, and are not directly comparable with a carvacrol percentage.
3. Amount per softgel
Check the milligrams of oregano oil or extract per softgel, and how many softgels make one serving.
4. Softgel type
Some softgels are enteric-coated, a coating designed to pass through the stomach before opening. Most oregano softgels use gelatin, so check the label if you avoid animal products.
Food supplement notice. The products in this collection are food supplements, not medicines. They are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. No health claim is authorised in the EU for oregano. Food supplements should not replace a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or under medical supervision, speak to your GP or pharmacist before use. Keep out of reach of children. For health information in Ireland, the HSE is the appropriate reference.
Buying oregano oil in Ireland
All stock ships from Dublin on a tracked service, with free tracked Irish delivery on orders over €75. Because orders ship from within Ireland, no customs charges apply. See our delivery information for details.
Oregano oil FAQs
What is oregano oil?
Oregano oil is an oil extracted from the leaves of the oregano plant, Origanum vulgare. As a food supplement it is diluted in a carrier oil, usually olive oil, and sold in softgels.
Is oil of oregano the same as oregano oil?
Yes. "Oil of oregano" and "oregano oil" are two names for the same thing. Both are different from undiluted oregano essential oil, which is sold for aromatherapy and is not intended to be swallowed.
What is carvacrol?
Carvacrol is a natural compound found in oregano oil. It is responsible for much of oregano's aroma. Manufacturers state the carvacrol percentage on the label so you can compare how concentrated the oil is.
What does 10:1 extract mean?
It means ten parts of oregano were used to make one part of extract. It describes the manufacturing process rather than the carvacrol content.
What is wild oregano oil?
Wild oregano oil is made from oregano harvested from plants growing naturally rather than on farms. "Wild" describes the source and is not a regulated term. Compare products on carvacrol content and amount per softgel.
How do you take oregano oil capsules?
Follow the directions on the label. NOW Foods Oregano Oil directs one softgel one to three times daily with food. Swanson Oregano Oil directs one softgel daily with food. Do not exceed the recommended daily dose.
Can you take oregano oil every day?
Both products we stock are labelled for daily use within the stated serving. Follow the label, and speak to your GP or pharmacist if you plan to take it long term or take other supplements or medication.
Is oregano oil safe during pregnancy?
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, speak to your GP or pharmacist before taking oregano oil or any food supplement.
Can I swallow oregano essential oil?
No. Undiluted essential oils are highly concentrated and are not intended to be swallowed. Only take oregano oil products labelled as food supplements for oral use, and follow the label.
Are oregano oil capsules vegan?
The oregano oil softgels we stock contain gelatin and are not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Where can I buy oregano oil in Ireland?
You can buy oregano oil capsules at Probiotic.ie. Orders ship from Dublin with tracked Irish delivery, and no customs charges apply.
Related collections
