Oregano oil - Health Benefits, Uses and Important Facts

Oregano is a flavorful herb that is most commonly used in Italian cuisine. However, it may also be concentrated into an essential oil that is brimming with potent chemicals and antioxidants and has been shown to have positive effects on health.

The extract is called oregano oil, and while being less potent than the essential oil, it has health benefits whether applied topically or eaten. On the other hand, essential oils are not designed to be ingested. It's interesting to note that oregano oil works well as a natural antibacterial and antifungal, and it may also aid in weight loss and cholesterol lowering.

What is oregano oil?

Oregano, sometimes referred to as Origanum vulgare in botany, is a flowering plant that belongs to the same family as mint. It is frequently employed as a herb to season dishes.

Despite being a native of Europe, it now grows everywhere. Since the ancient Greek and Roman civilizations employed oregano as a medicine, it has gained popularity. In actuality, the Greek terms "oros," which means mountain, and "ganos," which means joy or delight, are the origin of the word "oregano."

The plant has long been used as a spice in cooking. The plant's leaves and shoots are air dried to produce oregano essential oil. After drying, steam distillation is used to separate and concentrate the oil.

You can apply oregano essential oil topically after combining it with a carrier oil. It should not, however, be taken orally.

On the other hand, there are other ways to extract oregano oil utilising substances like alcohol or carbon dioxide. It is frequently obtained in tablet or capsule form and is easily accessible as a supplement.

Compounds of oregano oil:

Terpenoids, terpenes, and phenols are substances found in oregano. They produce the smell and have potent antioxidant properties:

Carvacrol - The most prevalent phenol in oregano, it has been demonstrated to inhibit the development of numerous bacterial species.

Thymol - In addition to boosting the immune system and offering protection from pollutants, this natural antifungal.

Rosemary Acid - This potent antioxidant aids in preventing damage from free radicals.

Health benefits of oregano oil:

• Fights infection: Thymol and carvacrol, two substances with inherent antibacterial and antifungal activity, are found in oregano oil.

• Soothes sore throat: Those with upper respiratory infections who used a throat spray containing oregano oil and other essential oils noticed symptom alleviation within 20 minutes of doing so.

• Prevents cancer: Rosmarinic acid, another component of oregano oil, helps to prevent the growth of free radicals that may lead to cancer, hence it may have anti-cancer qualities.

• Promote skin health: Research has shown that oregano essential oil can treat acne and reduce skin inflammation.

• Reduces inflammation: Carvacrol, a component in oregano oil, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties.