2024-04-30 06:40:48
- Oregano oil is obtained from the oregano plantscientifically known as Oregano vulgariswhich is a member of the labiatae family (Lamiaceae).
- This family also includes culinary and medicinal herbs known as mint, thyme and basil. Oregano is native to Europe, although it has become naturalized in many other parts of the world, including Mediterranean regions and some areas of Asia.
- Historically, Oregano has been used both in cooking and in traditional medicine. since ancient times. The Greeks and Romans used oregano for its powerful antibacterial and antiseptic properties, as well as to treat conditions such as muscle pain and digestive problems.
Oregano oil is extracted from the dried leaves and flowers of the plant, usually through a steam distillation process. This technique allows the active components of oregano to be concentrated, especially carvacrol and thymol, which are mainly responsible for its therapeutic properties.
Over the centuries, oregano oil has been valued in various cultures for its ability to treat various health problemsfrom respiratory infections to digestive problems, and remains a popular remedy in alternative medicine today.
Here are some of the benefits attributed to oregano oil in traditional medicine:
- Antibacterial properties: It has been used to combat bacterial infections, including skin and respiratory infections. The compound carvacrol, present in oregano oil, is especially effective against certain strains of bacteria.
- Antifungal effect: It is used to treat fungal infections, such as fungal nail infections, athlete’s foot, and candidiasis, due to its active compounds that inhibit fungal growth.
- Antiviral activity: Some studies suggest that oregano oil could be helpful against certain viruses, including those that cause colds.
- Anti-inflammatory: It can help reduce inflammation, which is beneficial in treating conditions such as arthritis and other inflammatory problems.
- Immune system support: Oregano oil is believed to strengthen the immune system, helping the body fight infections.
- Relief of digestive symptoms: Traditionally, it has been used to relieve digestive problems, such as indigestion and gastroesophageal reflux. It can also help expel intestinal parasites.
- Respiratory health: It is used in treatments for respiratory conditions such as nasal congestion, throat infections and colds, thanks to its expectorant properties.
Main uses of oregano oil
Oregano oil is rich in phenolic compounds and terpenes that contribute to its various medicinal properties. Especially, the key components are the carvacrol and thymol.
Carvacrol It is a phenolic monoterpene found mainly in the essential oils of several aromatic and medicinal plants, including oregano (Oregano vulgaris). He thymol is another one key component of oregano oilalong with carvacrol, and is responsible for many of its medicinal properties. Just like carvacrol, thymol offers its potential for the following functionalities:
- Anti-bacterial: They are effective against a wide range of pathogenic bacteria, including those that can cause gastrointestinal and respiratory infections. It interferes with the cell membrane of bacteria, which can lead to their death or inhibit their growth.
- Antifungal: They have the ability to fight various types of fungi, including those that cause skin and nail infections.
- Antiviral: Although research is less extensive, some studies suggest that carvacrol may inhibit the replication of certain viruses.
- Anti-inflammatory: They can reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of certain pro-inflammatory substances in the body.
- Antioxidant: They also have antioxidant properties, helping to neutralize free radicals that can cause cell damage and disease.
- Preservative: Due to its antibacterial and antifungal properties, thymol is also used as a natural preservative in the food industry.
Since oregano oil is a rich source of both compounds, this oil is often used to take advantage of the mentioned benefits. It can be used in several ways, including:
- Bacterial and fungal infections: Applied topically to treat skin infections or ingested to combat internal infections.
- Respiratory problems: Inhaled or taken internally to relieve symptoms of respiratory conditions such as congestion, respiratory tract infections, and colds.
- Digestive health: Used internally to help relieve digestive problems and as part of a treatment for intestinal parasites.
- Aromatherapy: Inhaled for respiratory and relaxation benefits.
Other active components of oregano oil that can be found are:
- P-cimeno: This is a precursor to other chemical compounds and contributes to the anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties of the oil.
- Terpineno: A type of monoterpene that has antioxidant properties and may also contribute to the antifungal activities of the oil.
- Linalool: A monoterpene alcohol that has anti-inflammatory and sedative properties, helping to reduce stress and anxiety.
- Beta-cariofileno: A sesquiterpene found in many essential oils that has anti-inflammatory properties.
These components are responsible for the various benefits of oregano oil and contribute to its potent activity against a variety of pathogens and health problems. Since oregano oil is very concentrated, it should be handled with care and it is usually recommended to dilute it with a carrier oil before applying it topically or consuming it.
How to take oregano oil?
Oregano oil is a versatile product but it is important to use it correctly to avoid possible side effects. Here I give you some guidelines on how to take oregano oil safely and effectively:
1. Always dilute
Oregano oil should always be diluted before use, whether for topical application or internal consumption. For internal use, you can dilute a few drops of oregano oil in a glass of water or mix it with a carrier oil such as olive or coconut oil before ingesting it.
2. Internal use
- Dosage: The recommended amount varies, but it is generally suggested to start with small doses, such as 1-2 drops, three times a day, and see how your body reacts.
- With food: To help minimize the gastrointestinal irritation that pure oregano oil can cause, it is best taken with food or mixed into a liquid.
3. External use
- Topical application: For skin problems such as fungal infections or acne, dilute oregano oil with a carrier oil (such as jojoba, almond, or olive oil) in a ratio of 1 part oregano oil to 3 parts carrier oil and apply directly on the affected area.
- Inhalations: For respiratory problems, you can add a few drops of oregano oil to a bowl of hot water and inhale the steam to help clear the airways.
4. In capsules
For those who prefer to avoid the strong taste of oregano oil, it is also available in capsules, which may be easier to take and less likely to cause irritation.
We recommend purchasing a product from leaf Oregano vulgarisgiven that it is where it concentrates the greatest amount of its most relevant active ingredients (carvacrol and thymol), such as the one we present to you, in highly concentrated vegetable pearls:
Wild Oregano Oil 300mg
Does oregano oil have side effects?
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have pre-existing health conditions, or are taking medications, it is crucial to consult a doctor before starting to use oregano oil.
Among the side effects, when applied topically it can cause irritation, when applied directly to the skin or ingested in large quantities it can cause gastrointestinal irritation and allergic reactions in some people. If you experience discomfort, reduce the dose or stop using it.
It is always advisable to dilute it with a carrier oil (if you are going to apply it externally) and consult a health professional before starting any treatment with oregano oil, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or are taking medication.
Conclusions
If you decide to start taking oregano oil, remember to do so responsibly and pay attention to your body’s reactions, adjusting the dosage as necessary and always under the guidance of a health professional.
Fuentes
Related Entries