Eight Possible Health Advantages of Oregano Essential Oil
Spice up your health game and explore the wonders of oregano oil! This bad boy offers more than just a tasty addition to your marinara sauce. From fighting inflammation to boosting your immune system, discover the top 8 ways this medicated herb takes your wellness routine to new heights.
Let's get this party started: What's oregano oil, anyway? It's a flowering plant that belongs to the Lamiaceae family and has been prized for centuries as both a flavor enhancer and holistic remedy. Thanks to its antioxidant-rich properties and anti-inflammatory effects, oregano has been used to treat various ailments, such as:
- pain relief
- aching muscles
- yeast infections
- high cholesterol
- asthma and other respiratory issues
- tummy troubles, like diarrhea, cramping, and indigestion
Oregano oil comes in two forms: extract and essential oil. Oregano oil extract (aka oil of oregano) is a diluted version available in liquid or tablet form and can be used for cooking or consumed orally. On the other hand, oregano essential oil is even more concentrated and is best suited for aromatherapy, as it's not safe to ingest.
Now, let's dive into the benefits of this culinary spice turned health superstar:
1. Antioxidant Paradise
Oregano packs a powerful antioxidant punch. Compounds like thymol, ocimene, carvacrol, terpinene, limonene, and caryophyllene are on deck, helping protect your body from nasty free radicals. Why's that exciting? This antioxidant protection may reduce your risk of heart disease and certain types of cancer.
According to one study, fresh oregano has 42 times the antioxidant levels of apples and contains up to 30 times the antioxidant levels of other herbs. Cheers to that!
2. Microbe Buster
Some compounds found in oregano oil may have antimicrobial properties. Scientists believe that oregano essential oil might help ward off antibiotic-resistant bacteria like E. coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
A study on mice with a Staphylococcus aureus infection found that those given oregano essential oil had a 43 percent 30-day survival rate, compared to rats given actual antibiotics that had a 50 percent survival rate.
A 2019 lab study also found that oregano essential oils high in carvacrol and thymol prevented strains of Staphylococccus aureus bacteria from forming in dairy and meat products. However, we need more research on humans to show these benefits are legit.
3. Inflammation Slayer
The powerful compounds in oregano may also help calm inflammation. A review of older research suggests that thymol and rosmarinic acid, found in oregano oil, may have some anti-inflammatory properties.
Another study found that concentrations of carvacrol in essential oil helped reduce swelling in the ears and paws of mice, potentially helping reduce the symptoms of inflammatory conditions like allergic asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, and autoimmune arthritis. More research on humans is needed, and we need studies focusing on the effects of high concentrations of oregano compared to using it as an oil.
4. Tummy Tamer
Oregano might help lower your chance of developing a leaky gut, a condition where the walls of your gut become damaged and allow toxins and bacteria into your bloodstream.
A 2016 study on pigs found that oregano essential oil helped protect the pigs' gut walls and lowered the number of E. coli bacteria in their guts. However, we need more research on humans.
5. Yeast Infection Fighter
Candida, a common fungus among us, can lead to yeast infections if it overgrows. A 2010 study suggests that oregano essential oil can be effective against 16 different Candida strains.
A 2008 test-tube study found that oregano essential oil kicked butt against five different types of Candida. Another test-tube study found that carvacrol was also very effective against oral Candida.
While these findings are promising, folk remedies like using fresh oregano up your vagina are not a substitute for prescription antifungals, so don't go there!
6. Cholesterol Fighter
Oregano might help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and increase HDL (good) cholesterol levels. In a 2013 animal study, mice on a high-fat diet that were given carvacrol had significantly lower cholesterol levels than those who didn't.
In another study, 48 people with mildly high cholesterol were put on a diet and lifestyle plan to help them lower their levels. Thirty-two of the participants were given 25 mL of oregano oil extract after eating. At the end of 3 months, folks who took the oregano oil had lower LDL cholesterol compared to those who didn't.
7. Weight Loss Helper
Carvacrol is gaining cred as a potential weight loss aid because it might help reverse the chain of events that lead to fat cell growth. In a 2012 study, mice given carvacrol gained less weight and body fat than those who didn't.
However, research on oregano as a weight loss method is limited. We also don't know if consuming oregano as part of a balanced diet would have a bigger impact than using oils or capsules.
8. Pain Reliever
A sprinkle of oregano oil on your pasta may not replace an over-the-counter pain reliever. However, some studies have found oregano oil has pain-relieving properties.
How to Use Oregano Oil
You can find oregano supplements at most health food stores or online. To enjoy the benefits, follow these tips:
- Stick to top-notch supplements from reputable brands and read the directions before use.
- Remember to dilute oregano essential oil (if using topically) with a carrier oil (such as olive or coconut oil).
Note: The FDA doesn't monitor or regulate the purity or quality of essential oils, so it's essential to talk to a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if you have health conditions or are pregnant.
Who Shouldn't Use Oregano Oil?
Always consult your doctor before adding a new supplement to your routine. Additionally, pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid taking oregano oil unless their doctor says it's okay.
tl;dr
Oregano is a tasty herb with some impressive health benefits. Studies suggest it can help reduce inflammation, lower cholesterol, fight yeast infections, aid gut health, relieve pain, combat certain bacteria, and potentially aid in weight loss. More research is needed to confirm all benefits and safety in humans. shop for oregano supplements from reputable brands, read labels, and consult your healthcare provider before use. And remember, don't stick fresh oregano up your vagina!
- Oregano oil, with its antioxidant-rich properties like thymol and carvacrol, can help protect the body from harmful free radicals, potentially reducing the risk of heart disease and certain types of cancer.
- Some studies show that oregano essential oil may have antimicrobial properties that can help ward off antibiotic-resistant bacteria such as E. coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.
- The powerful compounds in oregano oil may help reduce inflammation and could potentially aid in reducing the symptoms of inflammatory conditions like allergic asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, and autoimmune arthritis.
