Oregano, or Origanum vulgare, is a perennial herb that has been shown to possess antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. As with many natural supplements, clinical trials proving effectiveness are not available but there is strong research to support an array of health benefits from oil of oregano. These include antiviral properties, as well as the ability to fight off infections, restore digestive health, and improve joint and muscle flexibility.
Oil of oregano is extracted from oregano plants and contains carvacrol and thymol, both substances with potent antiviral properties. There are nearly 200 products listed in the Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database containing oil of oregano. It is used for a wide variety of purposes as a natural remedy, as well as for its overall health benefits.
Oregano is sought as a natural remedy for respiratory conditions and coughs caused by asthma, croup, and bronchitis. It may also be used for warding off urinary tract infections and intestinal parasites. Additionally, oregano oil can be used topically for acne, athlete’s foot, dandruff, bug bites, canker sores, and warts. Oregano is also shown to be effective at treating and preventing sinus infections. This is largely because of the natural antiviral properties of oil of oregano.
As a nutritional supplement, oil of oregano can be useful for boosting the immune system and fighting off infection as well as chronic inflammation, such as arthritis. Because oil of oregano is available as both an oil and a capsule, the uses and benefits of oregano are two-fold. When ingested, it can provide the health benefits already mentioned, as well as aid in digestion. It can also relieve an upset stomach and ward off congestion and sore throat caused by the common cold. When used topically, oil of oregano can relieve a number of skin conditions.
Used orally or topically, oregano is natural and safe to apply to the skin, gums, and teeth, as well as to ingest. As a topical treatment, oil of oregano may need to be diluted with another oil before application so be sure to check the product label. Oil of oregano can also be added to shampoos or mouthwash. Topical application benefits include treatment of dandruff, itching, ringworm, athlete’s foot, acne, and varicose veins.
In addition to the numerous health benefits oregano presents, it is a useful spice for cooking. The spice is typically derived from a different species of oregano than the oil and shouldn’t be confused with oil of oregano or oregano supplements. Primarily, as a spice, oregano is prized for its aromatic properties and commonly used to season Greek and Italian foods. It is often used in conjunction with garlic, basil, and thyme.
Oil of oregano can be taken as a dietary supplement. As a supplement, it can be taken in capsule form or ingested as an emulsified oil which can be added by the drop to milk, juice, or tea. Adding just two to three drops of oregano oil to juice or milk can help cure an upset stomach and aid in digestive health. While oregano is a natural substance, there is always a potential of side effects or interactions with any substance. Little has been discovered about side effects of oregano, except that it may interfere with the absorption of iron and may lower blood sugar. However, aside from potential allergies to oregano, historical use has demonstrated that oregano is well tolerated in recommended doses.
Diabetics should not use oregano oil without first consulting their doctor or nutritionist. Oregano may also produce anti-thrombin effects which could potentially cause an interaction with anticoagulants. If you are taking blood thinners, have a history of thrombosis, or are taking medication for high blood pressure, talk to your doctor before taking oregano or any other natural supplement. Pregnant women and women who are breastfeeding should not take oregano supplements or use oil of oregano without first consulting their doctor.
Because of the many health benefits of oregano, both as a supplement, a natural remedy to numerous common complaints, and as a topical remedy for a variety of skin conditions, it is a highly sought herb. Available in capsule and oil form, the oil may be prove more diverse in its benefits since it can be used in all manners, including orally and topically. If you want to know if oregano would be of benefit to you, talk to a nutritionist or herbalist for more information about the use and benefits of oregano.
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