Burn Treatment With Oregano Oil

Different types of burns can vary in their degree of severity, which dictates their treatment. Types of burns include heat, chemical, scald, sunburn, electrical, contact and inhalation. Any burn more serious than a superficial burn should receive prompt treatment by a health care professional. Some essential oils, including oil of oregano, may help speed burn healing and reduce pain. Oregano essential oil doesn't come from the culinary herb plant, but from a mint-family plant, Origanum compactum.

History

More than 2,200 years ago, Hippocrates --- the father of medicine --- reported using oil of oregano as an antiseptic as well as a treatment for stomach problems. The Benedictine monks of the 12th century also listed oil of oregano as an antiseptic and medicinal oil, recorded in "Hildegard's Medicine of Germany." The eclectic school of medicine in medieval Europe promoted herbal oils, including oil of oregano, for stomach complaints and pain relief. Very little scientific study exists in modern medicine to support the use of oil of oregano for treatments.

Oregano Oil Characteristics

Oregano oil contains antibacterial and antifungal characteristics that can help reduce inflammation and fight infection, according to the staff at Mayo Clinic.com. This fragrant essential oil is also a potent antiseptic and analgesic, according to the England Chiropractic Clinic website. While you should never apply undiluted oregano oil directly to the skin, you may use two to three drops in a carrier oil for topical application, or in a steam diffuser for therapeutic aromatherapy.

Burn Treatment Concerns

Burn victims, even those suffering from purely superficial burns, may suffer an array of complaints, including pain, a persistent burning sensation and risk of infection. Chemical and electrical burns should be immediately treated by a physician, as they may cause internal injuries that don't present obvious external symptoms. If your burn is large, charred, oozing or has an odor, or if you have difficulty breathing or feel dizzy, see a doctor immediately.

Oregano Oil Role In Burn Care

Oregano oil is a potent antiseptic, that may help prevent infections as a result of burns. As an antiseptic, oil of oregano arrests the growth and development of micro-organisms that can enter the open burn wound and infect it. Its antibacterial properties may help burn victims fight off infection from bacteria that may have entered the wound. Taken as aromatherapy in a steam diffuser, oil of oregano --- a potent analgesic and anti-inflammatory --- may help relieve burn pain and swelling.

Cautions

Oil of oregano is a highly concentrated and strong essential oil. If you're pregnant or breastfeeding, ask your health care professional whether oil of oregano is safe for you to use. Always dilute your essential oil with a carrier oil, such as olive or walnut. Use just a two or three drops of oil of oregano mixes with water in a diffuser or inhaler. Always check with a health care professional before applying any oils to burned skin, as burns present a high risk of infection.