Benefits of Oregano Oil

Oregano oil is a natural substance extracted from wild oregano plants. It is a highly potent purifier. What makes it stand out is that it contains two very important compounds: carvacrol and thymol. Both these compounds have significant effects on harmful microorganisms, that tend to cause various infections in human beings.

A very important thing to be noted about oregano oil is that it is not related to the cooking oregano (the favorite Italian spice). The oregano oil is derived from Origanum vulgare and is a member of the Labiatae family (mint family). Whereas the common oregano is Origanum marjoram. (so now you can stop over-sprinkling oregano on your Pizza. It's not the same, sorry!)

Oregano is mainly found in the Mediterranean countries like Greece and Crete. Oregano has been derived from the Greek word oreganos which means the 'joy of the mountains'. The name hence comes as no surprise because of the aromatic smell of this evergreen plant. It is basically a plant not a tree with a general height of 2.5ft and an approximate width of 2 - 3m. A lot of variety is found in this species, but only a few of them qualify as good enough to be used in the process of oil making.

Oregano oil is extracted through the process of steam distillation. The components that the oil consists of are:

• Carvacrol
• Gamma-terpinene
• P-cymene
• Alpha-pinene
• Myrcene
• Thymol
• Flavonoids
• Caffeic acid derivatives

The percentage of the components usually varies with different varieties of the oil available. The ones with high amount of thymol is not considered suitable for the preparation of oil intended for internal consumption. Some variations of the oil have been found to be toxic to the liver and kidney, even in small amounts. So care must be taken while using/consuming oregano oil. One should always know if the preferred variety is also the appropriate one.

Since ages, oregano oil has been used for healing purposes. Greeks used oregano oil for healing wounds, headaches and even the venemous bites of snakes, insects, etc. Oregano oil is used to treat a wide variety of ailments these days. It is also believed to have antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, antiphrastic and antiseptic properties. Oregano oil is used both externally and internally:

• It can be applied to the skin directly to cure a rash or an itch.
• It can also be applied directly on irritated gums.
• It can be used as a gargle solution in case of cough or itchy throat.

Benefits of Oregano Oil

• It destroys the microorganisms that cause skin infections and digestive problems.
• Strengthens the immune system.
• Increases joint and muscle flexibility.
• Improves respiratory health by helping loosen the phlegm in the lungs and also by relieving spasms in the bronchial passages.

Oregano oil is available in the market in the form of liquid, capsule as well as tablets. You can choose any one according to your requirements and consumption preferences. It may work like a magic wand for all your problems. But if you are allergic to thyme, basil, mint or sage, oregano oil is not meant for you. Also oregano oil is known to reduce the iron absorption ability of the body. So care must be taken regarding iron supplementation. And it's always advised to consult your physician before starting any type of medication, not just oregano oil. So, know your medicines before consuming them and stay healthy.