Oregano oil offers several potential health benefits, including antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. This oil is often used in natural remedies and is distinct from oregano essential oil, which is more concentrated and typically reserved for aromatherapy.
Unlike essential oils, oregano oil is safe for oral use, but it’s important to follow proper guidelines, as misuse can lead to side effects.
Whether applied topically or taken as an oral supplement, oregano oil can be beneficial for a variety of conditions. The key active compounds found in the oil, such as carvacrol and thymol, contribute to its therapeutic effects. Carvacrol, a type of antioxidant known as a phenol, is the primary active ingredient, while thymol, also found in thyme, has antifungal properties and may protect against toxins.
Although oregano oil has numerous benefits, it’s important to be aware of potential risks. It’s not suitable for everyone, and certain precautions should be taken before use.
Below, we’ll explore 10 of the most promising benefits of oregano oil and discuss its properties.
What Is Oregano Oil?
Oregano oil is a diluted form of oil extracted from Origanum vulgare, a small, bushy plant in the mint family. Known for its use in Italian cuisine, oregano contains high levels of beneficial compounds in its leaves and stems.
To produce oregano oil, manufacturers dry the plant matter and use steam distillation to extract these compounds.
The main components of oregano oil include:
– Carvacrol: The primary active compound with strong antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.
– Thymol: An antifungal compound that may also help protect against harmful toxins, though it is more abundant in thyme than in oregano.
Oregano oil’s combination of these compounds is what makes it effective in supporting overall health, but it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement.
Health Benefits of Oregano Oil
Oregano oil, particularly due to its high carvacrol and thymol content, may offer several health benefits. Here are some key potential benefits:
1. Fighting Bacteria
Oregano oil may help combat bacterial infections, largely due to its high concentration of carvacrol. One specific type of bacteria, Staphylococcus, which can cause staph infections, may be effectively managed with the use of oregano oil.
Research has shown that carvacrol can eliminate Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis, two common bacteria associated with infections. Both oral supplements and topical application of oregano oil may provide antibacterial benefits.
Additionally, scientists are investigating oregano oil’s potential to tackle antibiotic-resistant bacteria. A study published in Frontiers in Microbiology found that a combination of oregano oil and silver nanoparticles successfully eliminated all tested bacteria.
2. Managing Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)
Oregano oil may be beneficial in treating conditions like small intestine bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), where bacteria grow excessively in the intestines, causing digestive issues.
A 2014 study revealed that herbal remedies containing both carvacrol and thymol were effective in treating SIBO. While more research is needed to explore the individual roles of these compounds, the initial findings are promising.
3. Treating Fungal Infections
Oregano oil also shows potential as an antifungal agent, mainly due to thymol. A 2015 study found that thymol could be an effective treatment for Candida infections, a common type of fungal infection.
Candida infections can lead to various health issues, such as:
– Oral thrush
– Yeast infections
– Infected nails
– Athlete’s foot
Although the research so far has been conducted in test tubes, further studies in humans are needed to confirm the efficacy of oregano oil in treating these fungal infections.
4. Antioxidant Properties
Oregano oil is a powerful antioxidant, which means it helps protect the body from damage caused by oxidative stress and free radicals.
Oxidative stress can lead to DNA damage, cell death, and contribute to health conditions like arthritis, atherosclerosis, and some cancers.
The antioxidants thymol and carvacrol, found in oregano oil, may help reduce oxidation. Further studies are needed to explore safe doses for regular use.
5. Anti-inflammatory Effects
Oregano oil may have anti-inflammatory properties. Carvacrol, a compound in oregano oil, has shown anti-inflammatory effects in animal and laboratory studies.
Research from 2017 highlighted carvacrol’s ability to reduce swelling and even prevent obesity by affecting inflammation-related genes in mice. More research is needed to determine safe dosages for human use.
6. Wound Healing
Applying diluted oregano oil to minor cuts and scrapes may aid in healing by protecting against bacterial infections.
Thymol and carvacrol are compounds in oregano oil that may help safeguard wounds during the healing process.
7. Insect Repellent
Oregano oil, specifically the compounds carvacrol and thymol, may act as a natural insect repellent.
Research conducted in 2017 indicated that these compounds could repel ticks and mosquitoes.
While promising, more studies are needed to confirm this benefit for regular use. Diluted oregano oil may be applied to the skin as a natural insect repellent.
8. Pain Relief
Oregano may serve as a natural pain reliever. Animal studies suggest that oregano extract can provide pain relief in a dose-dependent manner, meaning the more extract taken, the greater the pain relief.
However, these studies used water-based extracts, so the same effects may not apply to oregano oil. Further research in humans is necessary to identify effective dosages.
9. Weight Loss Aid
Oregano oil may support weight loss efforts. Research has shown that carvacrol, the primary compound in oregano oil, can disrupt processes that lead to the formation and storage of fat.
However, more direct research is needed to validate these claims and determine how oregano oil may assist in weight management.
10. Cancer-Fighting Potential
Some studies suggest that oregano oil may have cancer-fighting properties.
Research indicates that oregano essential oil may help prevent the growth of certain types of colon and breast cancer cells in test tubes.
It also appeared to inhibit lung and prostate cancer cell growth. However, most of this research has been conducted in lab settings or on animals, so it’s important to approach these findings cautiously and not substitute oregano oil for medical treatments.
How to Use Oregano Oil
Oregano oil is available in both capsule and liquid forms, commonly found in health food stores and online. Since the potency of oregano oil can vary between products, it’s crucial to follow the manufacturer’s instructions or consult a healthcare professional to determine the safest and most effective dosage for your needs.
For those who dislike the taste of oregano, capsules provide a convenient alternative as they can be swallowed without tasting the oil.
When using oregano oil topically for skin concerns, dilute one or two drops in a teaspoon of carrier oil. This diluted mixture can then be applied directly to the skin.
Risks and Considerations
Oregano oil is highly potent and should be used with caution. Taking too much can pose serious risks, particularly if consumed orally without proper guidance, as it may cause burns to internal tissues.
Always follow the recommended dosage on the product label or consult a healthcare provider.
It’s important to avoid using oregano oil on children, infants, or if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.
People with diabetes should also steer clear of oregano oil, as it may interfere with blood sugar regulation.
Additionally, oregano oil can interact with certain medications, such as lithium and diuretics. Allergic reactions are possible as well, so be mindful of any adverse effects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can oregano essential oil be ingested?
No, oregano essential oil should not be consumed. Ingesting essential oils can cause symptoms such as abdominal discomfort, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and headaches.
Oregano oil extract, on the other hand, can be taken as a supplement in pill or capsule form, often with a meal.
How is oregano essential oil used as an antibiotic?
One animal study found that oregano essential oil inhibited bacterial growth in burn wounds, but using it as an antibiotic in medical settings is not yet advised.
More research is needed before it can be considered safe for such purposes.
Is oregano oil beneficial for lung health?
Some research has suggested that oregano oil may benefit lung health.
One study indicated it might slow the growth of certain lung cancer cells in a lab setting, and other studies have shown its potential to inhibit bacteria that cause pneumonia.
However, more studies are required to determine its effectiveness and the safest ways to use it.
What is oregano essential oil used for?
Oregano essential oil is being studied for its antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Researchers are also exploring its potential benefits in wound healing, weight loss, and pain relief.
Key Takeaways
Oregano oil is a powerful natural remedy that may offer antimicrobial benefits, but it should not replace professional medical treatment.
Be cautious when using oregano essential oil, as it is much stronger and not safe for internal consumption.
Further research is necessary to confirm many of the health claims associated with oregano oil.
