Oil of Oregano is derived from the Oregano plant, scientifically referred to as Origanum Vulgare. This plant belongs to the mint family, Labiatae. Many individuals are acquainted with this plant, often without realizing it. It is likely that everyone has consumed it at some point in their lives.
This is primarily because Oregano is a widely used spice, particularly in Greek and Italian cuisine. It is frequently found in pizzas, salads, and various types of pasta. While its origins are traced back to the Mediterranean, it is now utilized globally, both for its culinary applications and the health benefits associated with oil of oregano.
Oregano is rich in antioxidant properties, which likely contribute to the numerous health advantages of oregano oil. The compounds thymol and carvacrol found in Oregano Oil are thought to be the primary sources of its beneficial effects. The most recognized benefit of oregano oil is its effectiveness in alleviating mild stomach issues.
Additionally, it is renowned for its ability to clear coughs. However, Oregano offers a variety of other benefits, including the elimination of fungi, relief from digestive issues, migraine headaches, athlete's foot, sore throat, respiratory problems, dandruff, and other skin conditions.
For centuries, Oil of Oregano has addressed our health concerns, and it is expected to continue doing so indefinitely. Now that you are more informed about this remarkable, easily accessible, and affordable natural antibiotic, always keep in mind that it is available for your comfort and well-being!
Here are ten significant advantages of oregano essential oil that you may find beneficial:
1. Fighting bacterial strains
The antibacterial properties of oregano essential oil (Origanum heracleoticum L.) against clinical strains of Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
Research into oregano essential oil’s capacity to provide defense against bacteria such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa and E. coli has yielded some encouraging findings.
These bacteria are frequent culprits of respiratory and urinary tract infections, suggesting that further investigations may uncover stronger links that could be advantageous.
Antibacterial action of oregano essential oil
Research indicates that the topical application of oregano oil aids in the treatment of wounds and may even have the potential to eliminate methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).
2. Reducing cholesterol levels
The various polyphenols present in oregano oil, including thymol and carvacrol, may assist in lowering cholesterol levels, as per studies conducted in 2007.
The impact of essential oils and aqueous tea infusions of oregano (Origanum vulgare L. spp. hirtum), thyme (Thymus vulgaris L.), and wild thyme (Thymus serpyllum L.) on the copper-induced oxidation of human low-density lipoproteins.
Further research is necessary to comprehend how these polyphenols may influence humans, although existing animal studies suggest that the compounds found in oregano oil could be beneficial in lowering cholesterol.
Effects of Origanum onites on endothelial function and serum biochemical markers in hyperlipidaemic patients
A study focused on a small cohort of 48 patients, who were instructed to consume a small quantity of oregano oil after each meal. Upon analyzing the data, researchers observed a notable decrease in LDL (often referred to as “bad”) cholesterol across the group.
3. Addressing fungal yeast infections
While yeast can be benign, an overgrowth can lead to a fungal infection.
Certain types of Candida yeasts may occasionally manifest on the skin, but there are cases where they can infect various body parts, including the genitals, mouth, internal organs, and even the bloodstream.
Oregano essential oil has been shown to inhibit biofilms of Candida spp.
Research has examined the efficacy of oregano as an antifungal agent, revealing its potential in fighting the onset of Candida infections.
An in vitro study titled "Antifungal activity and mode of action of thymol and its synergism with nystatin against Candida species involved with infections in the oral cavity" reached a similar conclusion in 2015.
4. Mitigating skin inflammation
If inflammation is allowed to escalate, it can eventually activate the immune system, prompting it to attack healthy organs and tissues. Unmanaged inflammation can heighten the risk of heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis.
Some studies have been conducted to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effects of oregano, although further research is necessary to comprehensively understand its therapeutic potential.
Essential Oils of Oregano: Biological Activity beyond Their Antimicrobial Properties
5. Anti-cancer effects
Preliminary research into the application of carvacrol, a primary component of oregano oil, in fighting breast, lung, and liver cancer cells has yielded encouraging findings.
The study "Carvacrol Targets AXL to Inhibit Cell Proliferation and Migration in Non-small Cell Lung Cancer Cells" indicates that carvacrol can inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells and induce their death.
However, it is important to emphasize that no studies have been conducted on humans; thus, while these laboratory results are promising, extensive research is needed before establishing any correlation with cancer types present in the human body.
6. Safeguarding the body from free radicals
Antioxidant properties and phenolic compounds in selected herbs
Go to source investigated the antioxidant levels in 39 commonly used herbs and found that oregano had the highest concentration of antioxidants.
Antioxidants are crucial in shielding the body from free radicals, which, if not managed, can inflict significant harm to the body.
For instance, free radicals are significantly involved in the onset and progression of various diseases associated with aging, such as heart disease and cancer.
Moreover, when the body encounters certain air pollutants, irritants, and cigarette smoke, free radicals can accumulate.
Like all essential oils, oregano oil is highly potent, requiring only a minimal amount compared to fresh oregano to reap its antioxidant benefits.
7. Promoting gut health
Oregano (Origanum vulgare) extract for food preservation and enhancement of gastrointestinal health
Go to source indicates that it possesses antifungal, antibacterial, antiparasitic, and anti-inflammatory properties, all of which may contribute to improved gut health.
These advantages stem from the oil’s carvacrol and thymol content, which may be beneficial in addressing digestive issues such as diarrhea, indigestion, and stomach upset.
Herbal Therapy is Comparable to Rifaximin for Treating Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth
Go to source revealed that oregano, when incorporated into a herbal formulation, was as effective as antibiotics in treating small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO).
8. Alleviating and relieving pain
Some research has indicated that oregano may provide a degree of pain relief.
Researchers discovered that higher dosages resulted in greater pain relief for the animals involved in the study.
However, it is important to note that a water-based extract was utilized in the research, rather than the oil, thus necessitating further studies, particularly involving human subjects, to determine its effectiveness.
9. Weight Loss Support
For individuals aiming to shed pounds, oregano oil may offer additional assistance. Research indicates that the oil’s primary component, carvacrol, can interfere with the mechanisms that contribute to fat tissue development.
The findings are not yet definitive, suggesting that further investigations are necessary to assess the efficacy of oregano oil in supporting weight loss and obesity management.
Nonetheless, incorporating food-grade varieties of the oil into a nutritious diet could be advantageous.
10. Alleviating Depression and Stress
The impact of oregano essential oil on brain TLR4 and TLR2 gene expression, as well as depressive-like behavior in a rat model
Research examined the effects of oregano on rats experiencing depression, yielding some unexpected outcomes.
The treatment spanned 14 days, during which researchers observed improvements in the rats treated with oregano oil, with a noticeable reduction in stress-related behaviors.
It was concluded that oregano oil may be beneficial in alleviating stress-related behaviors.
While studies on its effects in humans are yet to be conducted, numerous individuals who diffuse oregano essential oil report that it aids in calming their minds and senses, fostering a balanced environment conducive to alleviating stress and anxiety.
