In addition to its reputation as a culinary herb, oregano has medicinal uses for antibiotic, antifungal and anti-inflammatory purposes. Pure oregano oil is cold pressed and steam distilled from wild Origanum vulgare, native to mountainous areas of the Mediterranean. The major active components are two volatile oils, thymol and carvacrol, but the vitamins, phytonutrients and flavonoids contribute to its healing properties as well. Health benefits can be attained by using oil of oregano topically or internally.
Antibiotic
Oil of oregano kills the bacteria that cause acne. Moisten a cotton swab with the oil and dab it on acne morning and night. It can also be used to treat rosacea, which is caused by a skin mite, reports a May 2005 article in Dynamic Chiropractic. Rub some oregano oil on affected areas to kill the mites.
Oregano oil effectively kills oral pathogens and you can apply it directly to inflamed gums or canker sores. It kills bacteria that cause dental plaque and tooth decay; try using a few drops in water as mouthwash.
HomeRemediesWeb suggests mixing three drops of oil of oregano in a glass of orange juice at the first sign of symptoms to treat a cold or sore throat. Repeat this dosage once a day for five days.
Antifungal
Apply oil of oregano topically to treat common fungal infections such as toenail fungus or athlete's foot. Rub the oil into the affected area two or three times daily until the condition subsides. Oil of oregano capsules, or three or four drops of oil in food or water, effectively inhibit the growth of Candida yeast.
You can also add oil of oregano to shampoo and allow the lather to remain on your scalp for five to 10 minutes. It kills yeast and skin fungi that cause dandruff and flaky scalp.
Congestion
Use oil of oregano to treat sinus congestion and bronchitis. Add three drops in a glass of juice to help relieve sinus symptoms. Try using oregano oil in a bowl of steamy hot water, inhaling the vapors. The vapors will soothe inflamed air passages and help break up congestion.
Digestion
According to HomeRemediesWeb, you can take three drops of oregano oil in a glass of milk for fast relief of indigestion and upset stomach. Oregano oil also kills Helicobacter pylori, the bacteria that cause gastric ulcers.
Analgesic
Rub oregano oil on painful joints for deep relief of inflammation due to arthritis or tendonitis. Take capsule medication as directed, or add a few drops of oil in a beverage for prolonged pain relief.
Additional Tips
Oregano oil is available as liquid oil and in capsule or tablet form.
Oil of oregano is sold in different strengths. Essential oil of oregano is undiluted. For topical use it should be mixed in a carrier oil, such as olive oil, before use. A typical dilution ratio for topical application is one drop essential oil per 1 tsp. carrier oil, with increased essential oil as necessary.
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