Oregano oils possess antioxidant, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory actions. They may also contribute positively to weight control and aid in treating certain infections.
Oils derived from oregano extract and oregano essential oil come from the same plant, yet they are distinct products. Various studies and anecdotal reports suggest these oils offer multiple health advantages.
This article explores the possible benefits of oils obtained from the oregano plant.
What is oregano oil?
Known botanically as Origanum vulgare, oregano is a flowering herb in the mint family. It’s commonly used as a culinary seasoning.
Oregano essential oil is produced by air-drying the leaves and stems of the plant, then extracting and concentrating the oil through steam distillation.
You can blend oregano essential oil with a carrier oil for topical use. However, it should not be taken orally in its undiluted essential oil form.
Oregano contains classes of compounds including phenols, terpenes, and terpenoids. These give oregano its potent antioxidant effects and distinctive scent:
- Carvacrol: The most prevalent phenol in oregano; it has been shown to inhibit growth of various bacterial species.
- Thymol: A natural antifungal that may also bolster immune defense and protect against toxins.
- Rosmarinic acid: A strong antioxidant that helps guard against free radical damage.
These constituents are believed to account for many of oregano’s health-promoting properties.
Below are eight possible benefits and uses of oregano oil.
1. Natural antibiotic
Oregano and its carvacrol content may help combat bacterial infections.
Although many reported advantages of essential oils are anecdotal, limited research indicates oregano essential oil might have protective activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and E. coli, both common culprits in urinary and respiratory infections.
More human trials are needed, but oregano oil extract contains many of the same active compounds as the essential oil and may provide comparable benefits when taken as a supplement.
2. May help lower cholesterol
Oregano and its oils are rich in polyphenols, such as carvacrol and thymol. Research suggests these active ingredients may assist in reducing cholesterol levels.
Preliminary studies in rabbits indicate that compounds found in oregano oil may have cholesterol-lowering effects.
3. Powerful antioxidant
Antioxidants protect the body from harm caused by free radicals.
Free radicals arise naturally from metabolism but may contribute to aging and the development of diseases like cancer and heart disease. They can also accumulate from environmental exposures, including cigarette smoke and pollution.
Because oregano oil extract is highly concentrated, a much smaller amount provides the same antioxidant benefit you’d get from fresh oregano.
4. Could help treat yeast infections
Yeast is a fungal organism. While often harmless, overgrowth can lead to infections. Some Candida species naturally live on the skin but can cause infections in the mouth, genitals, bloodstream, and internal organs.
Some studies indicate that oregano essential oil is effective against the growth of Candida species and may help prevent related infections.
5. May improve gut health and help relieve pain
Oregano essential oil may support gut health through its anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antiparasitic, and antibacterial actions.
Research also indicates oregano essential oils show potential for use in pain management.
6. May have anti-inflammatory properties
Inflammation in the body is associated with various negative health outcomes. Studies have shown oregano oil may help decrease inflammation.
A study found several compounds in oregano essential oil exhibit anti-inflammatory activity but may also be toxic to some cell types. Therefore, more controlled research is necessary to fully determine its therapeutic potential.
7. May have cancer-fighting properties
Some research has suggested that carvacrol, a key component of oregano oil, might possess anticancer properties.
In laboratory studies using cancer cell lines, carvacrol showed promising activity against lung, liver, and breast cancer cells, inhibiting growth and inducing cancer cell death.
While encouraging, these findings are from cell-based studies; no human trials have confirmed these effects, so further research is required.
8. May help you lose weight
Because of its carvacrol content, oregano oil may support weight loss and could be beneficial in treating obesity.
More evidence is needed to firmly establish a role for oregano oil in weight reduction, but it might be considered as part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.
How to use oregano oil
Oregano oil extract is commonly sold in capsule and tablet forms and is available at health food stores or online.
Since supplement strength varies, follow the directions on the product label for proper use.
Oregano essential oil can be diluted with a carrier oil for topical application. Remember that essential oils should not be ingested.
If you’re thinking of taking oregano oil extract while on prescription medications, consult your healthcare provider before adding it to your routine.
Frequently asked questions
What does oregano oil do for you?
Oregano contains compounds with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal effects and may offer additional health benefits. Oregano oil extract can be taken as a supplement, whereas oregano essential oil must be diluted in a carrier oil for safe topical use.
Is oregano oil safe to take daily?
Oregano oil extract supplements are likely safe for most people when used at the recommended dose. If you have medical conditions or take other medications, consult a doctor before beginning oregano oil. You can also use oregano as a culinary herb.
What is the best way to take oregano oil?
Oregano essential oil should not be consumed. For internal use, choose oregano oil extract in capsule or tablet form. Taking it with food may enhance its effects.
The bottom line
Oregano oil extract and oregano essential oil are affordable and widely accessible.
Oregano contains higher antioxidant levels than many fruits and vegetables and is rich in potent phenolic compounds.
Oregano also includes substances that may act against bacterial and fungal infections, inflammation, and pain, among other issues.
Overall, oregano appears to offer multiple health advantages and may serve as a natural option for addressing some common health concerns.
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