Oregano oil is a popular supplement with a multitude of applications and health benefits. From acne to infections, it is a beneficial natural remedy that usually works very rapidly. Oregano oil is used topically or internally, though it MUST be diluted first!
Oregano oil is derived from the leaves and flowers of oregano, a hardy perennial herb, and a member of the mint family. It's native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa, although it grows in many areas around the world.
It is the oil from the oregano plant that is popular in cooking. The oil is highly concentrated. Oregano oil and oregano the spice are NOT interchangeable. A single drop of oregano oil will ruin any recipe.
Oregano oil contains carvacrol and thymol. These substances are the antioxidants and antimicrobials which make oregano oil so useful.
Carvacrol is its most valuable element and is responsible for many of its health benefits. Carvacrol has powerful antimicrobial properties.
Oregano oil is an antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal. This makes it useful as a broad spectrum treatment when the source of a health condition is unknown. Oregano oil is also effective against bacteria like strep, staph, and tetanus.
Uses of Oregano Oil
Those who are allergic to plants from the Lamiaceae family (mint, lavender, sage, and basil) should avoid this oil, as to not develop an allergic reaction.
I highly recommend adding oregano oil to your stockpile of natural healing methods, as it has an extensive range of uses.
Ideal uses for oregano oil are:
Treating foot or nail fungus. For aggressive nail fungus, mix 3 drops of oregano oil with 2 drops of thyme and 10 drops of coconut oil. Apply the mixture on the specific nail every morning and night.
Alleviating thrush in the mouth. Mix 2 drops of oregano oil with 15 drops of coconut oil. Swab the mixture inside the mouth.
Alleviating sinus infections and colds. Combine 2 drops of oregano oil, 5 drops of Roman chamomile oil, 6 drops of lavender oil and 5 drops of coconut oil. Apply the mixture on the bottom of your feet. Do this for three days a week.
Treating abscess tooth. Mix 5 drops of oregano oil in 8 oz glass of water 3 times a day. Apply oregano oil drops directly to the area of the mouth that is abscessed and hold there it as long as possible. Either spit oil out or swallow down with water, as it is potent. The potency of the oil will help alleviate the pain associated with the abscess while also clearing up the infection.
Mole/Wart/Skin tag removal. Apply a drop of oregano oil directly onto the mole/wart/skin tag 3 times a day and cover it with a band-aid that also has 1 drop of oil added 3 times a day.
Treating a Cold Sore. At the first sign of a cold sore, take two drops under your tongue and apply a drop to the cold sore.
Ward off insects. Carvacrol in oregano oil works as a natural insect repellent. Try putting a few drops on outdoor furniture, or apply a diluted mixture on your skin when heading outdoors.
What type of Oregano oil?
Oregano oil is marketed in a few different ways so pay particular attention to labeling to ensure proper dosing. Oregano essential oil is sometimes labeled oregano oil. Either may be diluted in a carrier oil. 100% oregano oil or 100% oregano essential oil are BOTH 100% oregano oil. 25% oregano oil is ¼ oregano essential oil and the ¾ carrier oil, often olive oil.
Oregano Spirits is a tincture of the oregano leaf and is not the same as oregano oil, it may, however, be used for similar conditions.
It is not recommended by anyone I have ever known to use the oil at 100% strength with no diluting. It should also be noted that due to the stinging hot sensation it causes, it should be kept away from the genital area - and children!!