Oregano Oil Uses and benefits

Oregano oil http://goo.gl/JPqrCN is, as the name implies, oil from the oregano herb that is extracted by steam distillation. Or at least from the perennial oregano herb which is loaded with free-radical-crushing antioxidants. There are more than 40 varieties of the plant. According to Alive, the oil from Oreganum vulgare is believed to hold the most therapeutic benefit.

Research has shown that oregano oil offers many positive health benefits and is one of the most potent natural remedies in existence. In particular, there has been a significant evaluation of its effects against harmful organisms; investigations even been made by major pharmaceutical companies. 

How to Use Oregano Oil

• It be consumed as an herb in culinary uses, a tincture, tea or essential oil.
• The diluted oil can be consumed to speed recovery during illness.
• Oregano Oil (diluted in coconut oil) can be used on skin infections to boost healing.
• It can be mixed in to oil as part of an oil pulling routine.
• Diluted oregano oil taken internally can help with allergies.
• Oregano oil diluted in olive oil can be rubbed on sore muscles and joints for pain relief.
• Dried oregano, in combination with other dried herbs like basil, rosemary and thyme, can create an effective facial steam for loosening congestion and calming coughing.
• It can be diluted for effective use on athletes foot and fungal infections.
• It can be helpful in ridding the body of ringworm when used topically.
• It can be effective in removing warts when used diluted on the skin.

Relieves sore throat:

You may find some relief by adding a couple drops of oregano oil to a diffuser or vapourizer and inhaling for a few minutes. Drinking a few drops of oil in juice or water may also provide some relief from a sore throat.

It's also used for GI problems: 

Because there's some evidence that oil of oregano has anti-fungal or antiviral properties, it's thought to be helpful for some gastrointestinal issues. One small study showed that treatment with oregano oil may be useful for parasite infections, but further study is needed.

It could have anti-fungal properties: 

Some studies have shown that in lab cultures, oregano oil puts up a strong fight against Candida albicans, the bacteria that causes the fungal infection candida. Other research found it may have a similar effect against the mold fungis Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus niger. However, similar studies haven't yet been done in human subjects.

You can use it on your skin: 

It's thought that oregano oil is helpful for skin conditions like cold sores, muscle aches, nail fungus, joint pain, and dandruff. Try diluting it with a carrier oil like jojoba, sweet almond, or grapeseed, at 10 to 12 drops oregano oil per ounce of carrier oil. However, don't use oregano oil on broken or sensitive skin, as it can be irritating. There is some anecdotal evidence suggestions that it may be effective for treatment of psoriasis, an inflammatory skin condition, but no published research yet.

It's a natural insect repellent:

Oregano oil contains many compounds, and one of them is carvacrol — a natural insect repellent. This compound is also found in plants like mint and thyme. Try putting a few drops of oil on outdoor furniture — test first on an inconspicuous area to make sure it doesn't stain — or apply a dilution of it to unbroken skin when heading outdoors.

It may help in the fight against antibiotic resistance:

Some people believe that we can stave off antibiotic resistance by turning to natural solutions like oregano oil more often. One lab test in 2001 found that oregano oil was effective in killing staphylococcus bacteria, and another published laboratory study out of the UK found that it showed effectiveness against 25 different bacteria.

Oregano oil isn’t a cure for the cold but it can add a layer to your immune system. Many people claim that when they start to feel under the weather they place 3-6 drops into an empty capsule and take 2-3 times daily before meals. A 5-10 day regiment has been reported as doing wonders.

It tastes terrible:

Don't expect that you'll enjoy taking oregano oil, even if you love Greek food. It has a much more potent taste in oil form, so be prepared!

Eases Discomfort

Aches and stiffness can wreak havoc and really impact your quality of life. Many people use oil of oregano topically and say that it feels like it goes deep inside their skin to relieve soreness and muscle discomfort. Simply create a 50/50 mixture of organic oregano oil and organic olive oil and apply topically to the affected area for relief. If you suffer from sore muscles, sports injuries, and backaches, this is one benefit you’ll appreciate.

Dilute Oregano Oil when you use it

Because oregano oil in its pure form is so strong, it should only be used when diluted; try a ratio of one part oregano oil to three parts carrier oil, such as olive oil. Undiluted oregano oil can be irritating to the skin and mucous membranes. It is also possible to purchase diluted oregano oil.

Supports Graceful Aging

Perhaps the hottest health trend of the past few years is the science of combatting aging. It’s important to understand that aging is largely the effect of oxidation and free radicals, which is why antioxidants are so effective. Oregano oil offers a huge amount of antioxidants that can aid in the defense against these aging-accelerators.

It's meant for short-term use

In Alive, clinical herbalist Michelle Lynde recommends using oregano oil for acute conditions, by taking four to six drops at a time for seven to ten days.

The therapeutic use of oregano oil should be avoided in infants and children, and pregnant or nursing women. It also should be avoided by people with high blood pressure or a heart condition. It's always a good idea to talk to your preferred medical professional before starting a new wellness routine, and to disclose your use of alternative therapies in case of counter-indications with other medications or treatments.