Since the time of the ancient Greeks, oil of oregano has been used as an essential oil in alternative and complementary medication. Traditional medicine has yet to embrace the use of oregano oil because validated research to date has been completed only on animals.
Basics
Oil of oregano, as used in alternative and complementary medicine, is not from the same plant that is used as a food flavoring. Medicinal oil of oregano is obtained from the wild oregano plant, origanum vulgare.
Two key components found in oil of oregano are carvacrol and thymol, both phenolic compounds.
Expert Insight
Oil of oregano has been proven in in vitro studies to have antimicrobial properties, including inhibition of growth of fungi and bacteria such as staphylococcus aureus and staphylococcus epidermidis.
Another research team, this one at Georgetown University, lead by Harry G. Preuss, MD, MACN, CNS, professor of physiology and biophysics, found that carvacrol, one of the phenolic compounds in oil of oregano, killed staphylococcus bacteria in a test tube as well as did standard antibiotics penicillin and vancomycin.
Benefits
From the time of the ancient Greeks until current times, oil of oregano has been recognized by alternative medicine practitioners to have antimicrobial and antiparasitic properties. Additional benefits ascribed to oil of oregano include the ability to reduce pain and inflammation in the body and to ward off infection by strengthening the immune system.
Uses
Oil of oregano has been used by some practitioners to treat fungal and candida infections. Others have used it as a digestive aid and calming upset stomachs.
Oil of oregano is used to treat sinus infections. At the first sign of a sore throat or a cold, some practitioners advise beginning use of oil of oregano.
Side Effects
Oil of oregano may inhibit iron absorption. People who are allergic to thyme, basil or mint may also be sensitive to oil of oregano, since the plants are in the same family. Skin irritation may occur if used directly on the skin.
Precautions
Oil of oregano should not be taken by pregnant women.
Always discuss any alternative/complementary supplements you are taking with your primary health-care provider.
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