Oil of Oregano Uses

Oil of oregano is an essential oil obtained from oregano plant. The scientific name of this plant is Oregano vulgares. Basically, it is woody shrub that belongs to the mint family and is native to Mediterranean region. The oil is extracted from fresh or dried leaves of this plant with the help of steam distillation. The oil thus obtained has excellent medicinal values. Its health benefits is mainly owing to the presence of two phenolic compounds namely carvacrol and thymol as its major components. It is a good source of vitamins A, C and niacin. It also contains important minerals such as iron, calcium potassium, magnesium, etc.

What is Oil of Oregano Used for?

Oil of oregano is well-known for its natural antibiotic and antiviral properties. In other words, it can destroy both bacteria as well as virus. When this oil is taken internally, then it undergoes a reaction with water which in turn release a large amount of heat. This heat dehydrates all kinds of harmful microorganisms in the body. Thus oil of oregano helps to fight off diseases. Some of the key medicinal uses are as follows:

For Colds
Treating a common cold is a major problem. This is because it is caused by virus and antibiotics medicines that can destroy the bacteria really well is ineffective on viruses. An excellent way to get rid of annoying common cold symptoms is with the help of oregano oil as it is equally effective on both virus as well as bacteria. It can be used as a nasal decongestants where you just have to put one or two drops of the oil on a handkerchief and inhale the vapor. You can add 2-3 drops of the oil in orange juice and drink it to get relief from sore throat. Those who are bothered by acute sinus infection can add a few drops of oil into a bowl of hot water and inhale the steam. The anti-inflammatory properties of the oil brings down the inflammation of the sinus cavities and facilitate easier sinus drainage. This will bring relief from cough too.

For Digestive Health
Oil of oregano has an amazing effect on the overall digestive health. If it is taken after meals, it helps in release of various digestive juices which ensure better digestion of the food. You can take it when you have upset stomach. The phenol compounds helps to calm down the stomach discomfort and alleviate the diarrhea symptoms. It will also kill the parasites that triggered upset stomach.

For Arthritis
Anti-inflammatory qualities of oil of oregano can be utilized for relieving joint pain caused by arthritis. Massage the painful joints with a few drops of oregano oil diluted with olive oil. This will decrease the swelling of the joint and muscle pain which in turn will improve joint mobility and flexibility.

For Skin Problems
There are host number of skin problems that can be cured with the help of oregano oil. You can use it on various forms of itchy skin rashes caused by allergies, insect bites, eczema and so on. It can also be used on boils, warts and bruises that occur on the skin surface quite often. It is highly effective for the treatment of various types of fungal infections including nail fungus. When there is skin irritation, you must dilute the oil with olive oil before using.

For Acne Control
Acne is a bacterial infection that inflames the skin. You can safely apply the oil directly on the acne lesion to destroy the bacteria and reduce skin inflammation. For applying oregano oil on acne, dip a Q-tip into the oil and then place it on the acne. Use it twice a day: once in the morning and once before going to bed.

To Get Rid of Dandruff
Dandruff and the resulting itchy scalp is quite bothersome for anyone. To obtain relief, mix a few drops of the oil in your regular shampoo and use it to wash your hair. This should be continued for a week for best results. While using the oil in shampoo, just take care that it does not get into the eyes as it gives a stinging sensation in the eyes.

For Washing Hands
Most of the contagious disease causing germs enter the body from your hands. For this reason, it is being advised to wash hands several times in a day. Prepare a mixture by adding a few drops of oil of oregano oil in liquid hand soap and use it for washing your hands. This will keep your hands free from harmful germs and bacteria.

For Oral Care
Oil of oregano is good for destroying the bacteria that grows inside the mouth and prevent tooth decay and gum disease. You can put a drop of the oil on your toothbrush and brush your teeth with it. It will remove plaque and give you a clean teeth and fresh breath. Alternatively, you can prepare a homemade mouth wash by adding a few drops of oil in a glass of water and use this solution for cleansing up your mouth after brushing. When you have a tooth ache, massage your gums gently with oregano oil two times a day to get relief.

As a Nutritional Supplement
We have already discussed that this oil is an excellent source of a number of essential nutrients. Hence, it can be used as a nutritional supplement to improve the strength of the immune system and enable it to fight off harmful pathogens. Moreover, its antioxidant properties reduces the damaging effects of free radicals and prevent deterioration of the cells and thus protect you from age related problems such as degeneration of muscles, nervous system disorder, cancer, etc.

Oil of oregano does not have any major side effects. However, if it is used for a prolonged time, it tend to interfere with the absorption of iron in the body. Therefore, in case of a long term use of oregano oil, it should be accompanied by iron supplements. Most importantly, you must consult your doctor before oral consumption of the oil.