Researchers have found the chemical components in oregano oil helpful to treat a variety of ailments. The powerful antioxidants in oregano oil have antibacterial, anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties, making oregano oil a beneficial natural alternative to many types of traditional medicine. The main ingredient in oregano oil that gives the oil its natural healing properties is carvacrol, a phenol, or carbolic acid compound.
Antibacterial
Oregano oil has been shown to have antibacterial properties. According to James P. Meschino, a professor at the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College, oregano oil capsules can be taken to kill a variety of harmful bacteria. Meschino states that oregano oil can be used to treat common colds and bronchitis when taken at the first sign of symptoms. Oregano oil blends have been found to help people suffering from stomach ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori bacteria.
Harry G. Preuss, a physiology and biophysics professor at Georgetown University, performed a study on mice that found oil from the oregano plant to be as effective at combating infections as traditional antibiotics.
Anti-Fungal
Common fungal infections, such as fingernail fungus, yeast infections and thrush, can be treated with oregano oil. According to Zoltan P. Rona, a doctor of complementary medicine who practices in Toronto, topical use of oregano oil has been found to treat effectively fungal skin infections, such as athletes foot. Using oil of oregano internally or externally can help reduce the symptoms of many skin conditions, including eczema and psoriasis. Dr. Rona reports that some patients have seen benefits from using oregano oil topically to treat dandruff and diaper rash, as well as bee stings and bites from venomous animals.
Anti-Inflammatory
An article published in "Phytotherapy Research" states that oregano oil functions as a powerful anti-inflammatory and pain-killer. Patients suffering from arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome and back pain have found topical applications of oregano oil effective in treating pain and swelling. According the the article, oregano oil has been found to be nearly as effective at reducing pain as morphine. Dr. Rona claims that the natural antioxidants found in large quantities in oregano oil function to reduce swelling and inflammation.
Digestive Aid
According to French physician Jean Valnet in his book "The Practice of Aromatherapy," oregano oil capsules taken internally stimulate the production of bile, which aids in digestion. Taking oregano oil internally can also reduce the symptoms of gas, indigestion and diarrhea. The ancient Greeks were the first society documented to use oregano oil medicinally.
Cass Ingram, a doctor of osteopathy, writes in his book "Supermarket Remedies," that taking oil of oregano along with foods that are prone to spoilage, such as meat, eggs and milk, can help reduce microbe growth and prevent food-borne illness.
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