Oil Of Oregano VS Oregano Essential Oil

Oil of Oregano vs. Oregano Essential Oil

What’s the difference - and how do you use each thoughtfully?

Oregano tends to show up everywhere during wellness conversations, especially in winter. Some people reach for oil of oregano supplements, while others use oregano essential oil in cleaning sprays or diffusers. It’s common to wonder if they’re the same thing or if one is “better” than the other.

They’re related, but they’re not interchangeable. Understanding the difference can help you choose the option that fits your body, your home, and your current season more comfortably.

What is oil of oregano?

Oil of oregano usually refers to a whole-plant preparation made from oregano leaves that’s combined with a carrier oil or extracted in a way that makes it suitable for internal use. The key difference isn’t just the plant, it’s how it’s prepared.

There are a few common forms you’ll see:

Whole-plant or infused oil

This is one of the most traditional approaches. Dried oregano is infused into a carrier oil, like olive oil, over time. The result is gentle, food-friendly, and familiar, closer to how herbs have been used traditionally.

This type of oil is often used in cooking, massage, or as part of a simple wellness routine. It’s not highly concentrated, but it’s approachable and versatile.

CO₂-extracted oil of oregano

Some supplements use a carbon dioxide extraction method to pull specific compounds from the plant without heat or harsh solvents. These products are typically labeled clearly and formulated for internal use.

This type of oil is more concentrated than an infusion, but still very different from essential oil.

At Earthley, we focus on whole-plant preparations that support the body without overwhelming it. Our Oil of Oregano was created with that philosophy in mind, thoughtfully formulated to provide gentle, seasonal support while honoring the balance of the whole herb rather than relying on extreme concentrations or isolated compounds.

The takeaway: oil of oregano products can vary widely and knowing how they’re made matters.

What is oregano essential oil?

Oregano essential oil is created through steam distillation. It’s highly concentrated, far more potent than infused or supplement forms.

Because of that intensity, oregano essential oil is most often used:

• in diffusers
• in DIY cleaning blends
• in topical applications when properly diluted

Essential oils are not the same as herbal oils. They’re concentrated plant extracts and need to be treated with care, especially around kids, pets, and during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

In most home settings, oregano essential oil is best thought of as a household or aromatic tool, not a daily wellness supplement.

Why the difference matters

The confusion usually comes from the name. Both come from oregano, but they behave very differently in the body and the home.

• Oil of oregano (whole-plant or supplement forms) is generally chosen for internal or food-adjacent use, depending on formulation.
• Oregano essential oil is best reserved for external use, diffusion, or cleaning… always diluted and used intentionally.

Using the right form for the right purpose helps avoid overwhelm, irritation, or unnecessary stress on the body.

Gentle ways people use each product

Rather than thinking in terms of “stronger” or “better,” it helps to think in terms of fit.

Oil of oregano (whole-plant or supplement forms):

• Seasonal wellness routines
• Short-term support during transitions
• Cooking or infused oil uses
• Massage when infused gently

Oregano essential oil:

• Diffusing with other oils like lemon or eucalyptus
• Adding to DIY surface cleaners
• Diluted topical use for massage or aromatic support

Neither is meant to replace rest, nourishment, or foundational habits. They’re tools, not cures.

A note on pregnancy and breastfeeding

This is a season where gentleness matters even more.

Highly concentrated products especially essential oils, often require extra caution. Many moms choose to avoid oregano essential oil entirely during pregnancy and breastfeeding, or reserve it only for household use.

Whole-plant preparations, like infused oils used in cooking or gentle topical applications, tend to feel more familiar and food-adjacent, but every body is different.

Listening to your body and working with someone knowledgeable about herbs and pregnancy can help guide those decisions.

So… which one should you choose?

That depends on what you’re trying to support - and how. If you’re looking for something:

• food-friendly
• gentle
• supportive of everyday routines

A whole-plant oil of oregano may feel like the better fit.

If you’re looking for something:

• aromatic
• household-focused
• not intended for internal use

Oregano essential oil makes more sense.

They serve different purposes… and that’s okay.

Final thoughts

Oregano is one of those humble herbs that shows up in the kitchen and quietly supports wellness routines when used thoughtfully. Knowing the difference between oil of oregano and oregano essential oil helps you use each with confidence, without feeling like you need to do everything.

There’s no single right answer. Just the option that fits your season best.

Gentle choices add up.