Oregano Essential Oil

Origanum vulgare

Oregano Essential Oil blends well with the essential oils of Lavender, Rosemary, Bergamot, Chamomile, Cypress, Cedar Wood, Tea Tree and Eucalyptus.  To use topically on skin, oregano essential oil must be mixed with a carrier oil. To take internally, it must be mixed in very small quantities with a non-dairy liquid such as honey. It is sold in softgels as a supplement in health food stores. Often used is in a diffuser to keep the air germ-free.

Known Uses

Oregano Essential Oil is an antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-parasitic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-allergenic substance. As such, it provides protection against viral, fungal and bacterial infections such as the flu, and can treat E. Coli, Giardiasis, and food poisoning. Oregano essential oil stimulates the production and function of white blood cells, the body’s main line of defense so that it strengthens your immunity against colds, mumps, measles, pox and other problems created by viruses. The antibacterial effects of oregano don’t have a negative affect associated with antibiotics on the healthy, necessary flora in your intestines and stomach.

It has soothing effect on many types of inflammation; protects against cancer and macular degeneration; eliminates intestinal worms and external parasites such as lice, bed bugs, mosquitoes, and fleas; gives relief from allergy symptoms; reduces symptoms of oncoming menopause and regulates the menstrual cycle. Oregano essential oil is said to be a powerful painkiller; promotes digestion; has been shown to help heal a number of skin disorders such as Psoriasis, Eczema, and Athlete’s Foot.

Oregano Essential Oil can act as an expectorant and as such both prevents and treats symptoms of respiratory ailments. It will loosen up or help eliminate the buildup of mucus and phlegm in the respiratory tracts and sinuses and soothes inflamed lungs and the throat, which often stimulate coughing fits.

The antioxidant property of the oregano oil can protect heart and blood vessels from free radical damage. The ursolic acid in the essential oil has been found to inhibit cancer cell proliferation in several ways. Ursolic acid also increases the amount of brown fat and muscle while decreasing white fat deposition. This may help overweight people to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases and metabolic disorders. Oregano essential oil contains phenols, a powerful form of antioxidant that literally scours the body and eliminates free radicals that cause disease and aging.

History

The ancient herb Oregano has been used medicinally around the world for over 4,000 years. The ancient Greeks were among the first to recognize the disinfectant and antibacterial properties of oregano oil which they often used for treating bacterial infections on the skin or in wounds. It was also employed to protect food from bacteria. The Greeks called the spice origanos, meaning "delight of the mountains." In Greece, oregano covers the hillsides with its sweet, spicy scent. In antiquity, it was used as a symbol of happiness and bridal couples were crowned with oregano leaf garlands. Additionally, the plants were placed on tombs to give peace to departed spirits.

Warning

Oregano essential oil can cause irritation of the skin and mucus membranes if used in full strength. Pregnant women should avoid using it, and it is a good idea to consult with your doctor before adding it in to your diet. Due to its general stimulation and regulation of hormones, it can potentially result in a miscarriage if the hormone to induce periods is stimulated. People who are allergic to basil, lavender, marjoram, mint, or sage are also commonly allergic to oregano and its essential oil.