Oregano Oil for Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a skin disorder characterized by raised red patches covered by silvery scales. It is believed that an immune system imbalance may play a role in the development of psoriasis. Conventional therapy includes skin moisturizers, steroid anti-inflammatory ointments and drugs as well as light therapy. If you have been diagnosed with psoriasis and are considering taking oil of oregano, you should first talk to your doctor.

Benefits

In research studies, oil of oregano has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties. Its active ingredients, rosmarinic, oleanic and ursolic acids, appear to be responsible for these anti-inflammatory effects, according to a study published in June 2010 issue of "Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry." Other research studies showed that oregano oil also has antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal and analgesic qualities, notes a research team from Biofactors.

Effects

Although no clinical studies evaluated the benefits of oregano oil for psoriasis, some people are using it and reported relief in symptoms, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). The anti-inflammatory qualities of oregano oil are likely to support the use of this product for a variety of inflammatory conditions, including psoriasis. Considering that conventional therapy is based also on anti-inflammatory medication for managing psoriasis, oil or oregano may benefit this condition. Due to its antibacterial effects, oregano oil may be particularly beneficial for inhibiting bacterial growth found in guttate psoriasis. The antioxidant effects of oregano oil may also improve psoriasis by boosting the immune system.

Dosage

Individuals with psoriasis noted improvement in their condition when taking 20 to 60 drops of oregano oil twice daily, diluted in water or juice, according to UMMC. Some supplements based on oregano oil are already diluted in olive oil, so you should follow the recommendation on the label and the advice from your health care provider.

Considerations

Consult a qualified health care provider to find out the optimal dosage that may help your condition, possible side effects and drug or herb interactions. A healthy diet, other herbs, vitamins and homeopathic remedies may also help psoriasis sufferers.Oregano oil should not be used to replace conventional medication prescribed for psoriasis. Oregano oil is not approved by U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat psoriasis or any medical condition.