Liquid Wild Oil of Oregano: A Comparison

by Nathan Zassman November 04, 2015

BEST VALUE: Enerex Black Oregano with 32% total carvacrol concentration and black cumin seed oil as a carrier.

The active ingredient that provides health benefits in wild oregano oil is carvacrol, a phenolic compound that is the most plentiful and therapeutically significant constituent of oregano oil.

For internal use, wild oregano oil must always be diluted with a carrier oil. Straight oregano oil is too strong to be palatable, it can burn the skin and cause upset stomach. Aviva does carry 100% pure oregano oil by NOW, but it is designed for use in aromatherapy, and also must be diluted before use.

Most oregano oil products list their carvacrol content, but do not list the important ratio of oregano oil to the carrier oil (usually olive oil). It is not uncommon to see the percentage of carvacrol listed on products around 70%-80%. However, unless you know the ratio of oregano oil to the carrier, the total carvacrol content is impossible to determine from the label.

The highest concentration of carvacrol is found in the Super Strength formula from Pureli Natural -- 40% -- however, I personally recommend Enerex Black Oregano. This innovative product also features a high concentration of carvacrol (at 32%), but uniquely uses black cumin seed oil as the carrier instead of olive or MCT oil. Black cumin seed is well known to reduce nasal mucosal symptoms, and has proven health benefits for the immune system. With a number of synergistic benefits, I feel the combination of oregano oil and black cumin seed oil makes this product the best choice.

For those who are battling colds and flu, I recommend combining Enerex Black Oregano with Platinum Naturals Oregano 8 capsules, which contain a variety of immune system strengthening ingredients. I also recommend Kold Kare, which contains Andrographis paniculata, an herb more effective than Echinacea for reducing sore throat and fever, and shortening the duration and symptoms of the common cold. For bronchial issues and colds, Umcka (pelargonium sidoides), and Allivictus Garlic Tincture have clinically proven benefits, especially if taken at the first sign of symptoms.

*Notes:

1: Enerex Orega More and Black Oregano also include 33 IU of vitamin A and 50 IU of vitamin D3 per drop to help boost immune function.
2: St. Francis Herb Farm 1-1 uses MCT oil (derived from coconut oil) as the carrier oil.

Some oregano oils claim to be (certified organic) however, the certification groups are not recognized organizations, so I do not consider this specification of value for any oregano oil product. Enerex uses certified organic olive oil in Orega More, but the health benefits of olive oil would require more than a few drops per day.

Also see Biotics Research ADP, an emulsified oil of oregano product introduced after this article was first published.