Eczema & Oil of Oregano

Eczema, or atopic dermatitis, is an allergic skin condition characterized by inflammation of the skin, redness, itchiness and flaky scales of the affected areas. Eczema is frequently triggered by food allergies, environmental allergies, infections with Staphylococcus aureus and various skin products and cosmetics, according to the Merck Manual. If you have been diagnosed with eczema and consider taking oregano oil, you should first talk to your health care provider.

About Oil of Oregano

Oregano, also known as Origanum vulgare, is a spice and also a medicinal herb. According to Drugs.com, its active ingredients thymol, carvacrol and rosmaric acid appear to be responsible for the antioxidant, antibacterial and antifungal qualities of oregano oil. In addition to these effects, Biofactors notes that research studies support oregano oil as an immune booster, and it also has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.

Oregano Oil & Eczema

Supplementation with oregano oil may benefit individuals with eczema in several ways. Eczema is linked with immune system imbalances, and oregano oil helps boost the immune system due to its strong antioxidant qualities, according to "Prescription for Nutritional Healing" author Dr. James Balch. The swelling of the skin can also be relived by oregano oil, according to Biofactors, because research studies found that this supplement has anti-inflammatory qualities. A common complication of eczema is bacterial skin infection, and oregano oil has strong antibacterial properties, thus it can prevent this complication. Oregano oil has been found effective in inhibiting the growth of Staphylococcus aureus, according to Biofactors. Finally, some scientists hypothesize that eczema may be caused by fungal infections, particularly Candida, according to Balch. In this, oregano oil may help as research shows this supplement also has the ability to fight fungal infections.

Safety

Oregano oil is considered safe in the recommended dosage and dilution. Check the label of the supplement you choose because different brands contain oregano oil in various dilutions. Oregano oil of more than 0.5 percent dilution can irritate the skin. Oregano oil may also cause allergic reactions in susceptible individuals, and cases of allergic skin reactions have been documented in medical literature, Drugs.com reports. This supplement should be avoided during pregnancy and lactation.

Considerations

Consult a health care provider to learn the optimal dosage of oregano oil and other natural supplements that may help your skin condition. Keep in mind that oregano oil does not replace, and should not be used to replace, conventional drugs prescribed for eczema.