Oil of Oregano
Health Benefits

In this era of herbal renaissance, one of the biggest findings made is definitely the oil of wild oregano. Oil of oregano is extracted from the leaves of the flowering wild oregano plants found in remote woods. The chemical name for wild oregano is Origanum Vulgare. It should not be confused with the pizza spice oregano, which is Origanum Majoram.

Oil of oregano basically consists of two major components: carvacol and thymol. Carvacol is a powerful antimicrobial and antifungal while thymol has antiseptic properties. Because of these two components, this miracle herb is very beneficial for human health. It destroys organisms that contribute to skin infections and digestive problems, improves respiratory health, strengthens the immune system and increases joint and muscle flexibility.

It was used by the ancient Greeks to treat infection related illnesses. It is also a mineral house that contains calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron, potassium, copper, boron, and manganese. It is also a rich source of Niacin, Vitamins C and A. Some salient properties and their health benefits are:

It is anti-viral: It treats and protects against cold, mumps, measles, pox and other problems created by viruses.

It is anti- bacterial: Oregano is an excellent anti-bacterial agent. Its volatile oils are effective against a number of pathogenic bacteria. It helps treat infections in the colon, urinary tract etc., typhoid, cholera, sores, skin infections and temporary problems such as food poisoning.

It is anti- fungal: It is a potent anti-fungal agent and helps in destroying almost all sorts of fungi. It treats internal and external fungi including athlete’s foot. Skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema can be improved as well.

It is an anti- parasitic: When ingested, it gets rid of intestinal worms. Applied externally, it keeps away lice, bed bugs, mosquitoes, fleas etc.

It is an anti- oxidant: Oregano may help prevent cell damage caused by free radicals. It slows down aging and protects from certain cancers, macular degeneration, osteoarthritis and rheumatism.

It is anti-allergenic: Oregano oil, being sedative in nature, calms down hyper-sensitivity towards external stimuli and relieves allergies.

These properties make oregano one of the most diverse health aides available. It effectively treats acne, allergies, arthritis, athlete's foot, asthma, croup, constipation, digestive disturbances, dandruff, diarrhea, diaper rash, insect bites, bronchitis, canker sores, colds, fatigue, parasites, flu, earaches, gum disease, menstrual irregularities, headaches, ringworm, toenail problems, psoriasis, sinusitis, seborrhea, muscle pain, varicose veins and warts.

Side Effects Of Oil Of Oregano

It may cause skin irritation, redness, and burning. When used either topically or internally to treat thrush, oil of oregano may decrease a nursing mother's milk supply. High doses may be toxic to the liver.

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