Facts About Oil of Oregano
Oil of oregano is a concentrated oil from the wild oregano plant. It has a number of medicinal uses. It is generally used as an antibiotic and antihistamine, although research has yet to fully prove its medicinal value. For those looking for home remedies and alternative medicine, it can be a good treatment option.
History
People have been using oil of oregano for hundreds of years, with the earliest known use in ancient Greece. It has been a home remedy since then. The use of oil of oregano has increased as many consumers have sought to use natural remedies in the place of commercial medications.
Production
The oregano that is used as a seasoning in cooking comes from the common oregano plant, Origanum marjoram. A different variety of oregano, the wild plant Origanum vulgare, is the source of oil of oregano. The primary sources of its health benefits are the oils carvacrol and thymol. Oil of oregano also contains naringin, terpenes, rosmarinic acid and vitamin E. Most health food stores carry concentrated oil of oregano.
Known Benefits
Oil of oregano has a number of purported benefits. One that has been established is steam inhalation therapy to treat sinus infections. Another known benefit comes from a study done by Georgetown University, finding that oil of oregano will prevent staphylococcus bacteria from growing in mice and test tubes just as well as antibiotics will. However, the applications of this study to use in humans are not fully proven.
Potential Uses
People use oil of oregano in a number of contexts, mostly for treating minor illnesses in their early stages. A few drops of oil of oregano in a cup of juice are purported to provide relief for upset stomachs and minor indigestion, sinus and lung congestion and minor colds and flu. Oil of oregano is also sometimes used for topical use in treating fungal infections, acne and dandruff. It is also used as a mosquito repellent. When used topically, it should be diluted with olive oil or water.
Warning
Oil of oregano should not be used as your only treatment for a severe medical condition. It is important to seek medical help and follow a licensed doctor's recommendations. A number of conditions will worsen significantly over time, and your chances of recovery will lower if you spend too much time on home remedies such as oil of oregano. In addition, oil of oregano makes it more difficult for your body to absorb iron, so those taking oil of oregano should also increase their iron intake.
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