6 Health Benefits of Oregano Oil

Oregano oil, derived from the oregano plant or Origanum vulgare, belongs to the mint family and thrives in parts of Europe, the Mediterranean, Central, and South Asia. Esteemed for over 2500 years, oregano holds a significant place in global folk medicine practices. Extracting oil from the dried leaves and stems involves a distillation process, yielding a potent substance rich in compounds like carvacrol and thymol, which fortify the oil against toxins and combat fungal infections.

Renowned for its healing prowess, oregano oil serves as a natural remedy, boasting antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties that render it a superior and healthier alternative. When ingested, it aids in resolving indigestion and gastrointestinal issues while facilitating recovery from respiratory ailments. Inhaled as steam, it eases sinus and chest congestion. Diluted or applied topically, oregano oil effectively addresses acne, warts, athlete’s foot, canker sores, and various fungal and bacterial infections, showcasing its diverse therapeutic potential.

# Cancer-Fighting Properties

Carvacrol compound which is found in abundance in the oregano oil is said to possess cancer-fighting properties. Studies demonstrate that carvacrol has promising results against lung, breast, and liver cancer. Basically, the compound helps in inhibiting the growth of cancer cells and causes cancer cell death.

# Relieves Pain

An animal study was conducted on mice to test the effect of painkillers and essential oils including oregano oil. Results suggested that the oregano oil was seen to reduce pain in mice, showing similar effects to that of the common painkillers. One other study conducted on rats showed that a higher intake of oregano extracts by the rats led them to feel lesser levels of pain. These results were likely because of the presence of carvacrol content.

# Helps Lose Weight

Oregano oil has the ability to disrupt the formation and accumulation of fat tissue. In a study conducted on mice, they were given a high-fat diet along with carvacrol. Results suggested that even though after the intake of a high-fat diet the mice were seen to weigh less than those who were not given carvacrol with their diets. This proves that oregano oil can discontinue the growth of fat cells in the body. It was also said that adding oregano oil to daily use might lead to a healthier lifestyle.

# Anti-inflammatory Properties

One of the major uses of oregano oil is that it helps in reducing inflammation. As the compounds present in the oil are anti-inflammatory in nature. A study suggested that these compounds prevented obesity by having an effect on the genes related to inflammation and it also reduced swelling.

# Natural Antibiotic

Oregano oil is considered a natural antibiotic as it may help fight bacteria. Staphylococcus aureus is a very common cause of infections. It might aid food poisoning or skin infections can be eliminated by the oils intake. Intake can either be in the form of oil supplements or by applying it to the skin.

# Fungal Infections

Overgrowth of yeast could lead to infections. Intake of oregano oil has shown progressive results against the most well-known yeast, Candida. It works effectively against 5 different kinds of Candida, such as infections caused in the vagina and mouth. High levels of thymol present in the oregano oil act as a potent anti-fungal agent.