Wild oregano oil is a natural supplement derived from wild oregano or common oregano, scientifically known as Origanum vulgare. The oil has been extensively researched for its ability to fight yeast infections, and positive findings have been recorded. However, larger studies are needed to fully confirm these benefits. If you suffer from candidiasis and consider taking wild oregano oil, talk to your health-care provider first.
About Yeast Infections
Yeast infections, medically known as candidiasis or candidosis, are an infection caused by Candida fungi and may affect the skin, vagina or mouth. Candida albicans is the fungus that most commonly causes yeast infections, according to Merck Manual. Symptoms associated with yeast infection include itchiness and red patches of the affected areas. Candida is a fungus naturally present in your body, but when it grows out of control, it creates yeast infections. Although these infections may occur in healthy individuals, they are more common when your immune system is weakened by stress, antibiotics or conditions like diabetes, cancer or AIDS. Conventional treatment for yeast infection includes anti-fungal medication like nystatin or fluconazole.
Research
The essential oil derived from Origanum vulgare has the ability to inhibit all of the Candida fungi evaluated in a study conducted by an Italian research team. This in-vitro study was published in October 2009 issue of "Phytomedicine," and researchers found that oregano oil works synergistically with the anti-fungal drug nystatin in fighting yeast infections. Oregano oil also appears to be more effective than tee tree oil for managing candidiasis, according to this study.
Oregano oil, as well as ginger, are more effective than other natural supplements in cases of yeast infections resistant to conventional drug fluconazole, according to another research study conducted in-vitro, published in November 2008 issue of "Canadian Journal of Microbiology." This study evaluated eight medicinal herbs on five Candida species.
Herbal Combination for Vaginal Yeast Infection
Combine equal amounts of oregano, goldenseal root and echinacea. Steep 1 tsp. of this herbal combination in 2 cups of water, allow the mixture to cool down and use it as a vaginal douche for up to two weeks, suggests the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Considerations
Consult a qualified health-care provider to learn more optimal dosage of wild oregano oil, possible side effects and drug or herb interactions. Keep in mind that oregano oil does not replace and should not be used to replace anti-fungal drugs. Oregano oil is not approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat yeast infections.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Vaginitis
- Merck Manual: Yeast Infections
- "Phytomedicine"; In Vitro Synergic Efficacy of the Combination of Nystatin with the Essential Oils of Origanum Vulgare and Pelargonium Graveolens Against Some Candida Species; A. Rosatto et al; October 2009
- "Canadian Journal of Microbiology"; In Vitro Activity of Essential Oils Extracted from Plants Used as Spices Against Fluconazole-Resistant and Fluconazole-Susceptible Candida spp; November 2009
- Drugs.com: Oregano
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