Oregano, the fragrant herb commonly used to flavour pasta and meat dishes, is renowned for its versatility in the kitchen. But did you know that it can also be transformed into herbal oil with a wide range of benefits? The Essential Oil of Oregano is extracted through steam distillation of fresh oregano leaves. Oregano oil is one of the best natural supplements you can get! Here are the top benefits, uses and remedies with oregano:
BENEFITS OF OREGANO
DIGESTIVE AID
Good digestion is absolutely required to experience good health. Oregano oil is known to stimulate the flow of bile into the digestive organs, enhancing the digestive process. This way, it speeds up metabolism and flushes out toxins!
ANTI-BACTERIAL
Just as it protects you against viral infections, oregano oil protects you against bacterial infections as well. This gives you an added level of protection against most bacterial diseases, such as infections in the colon and urinary tract, as well as typhoid, cholera, sores, skin infections and temporary problems like food poisoning.
ANTI- OXIDANT
This property turns out to be one of the most celebrated attributes of oregano essential oil, because it protects you from the damages done to the body by free radicals (oxidants), and it neutralizes the free radicals, while repairing the damage already done.
ANTI- ALLERGIC
Allergies are hyper-reactions of the body towards external stimuli. Oregano Oil, being sedative in nature, calms down this hyper-sensitivity and is known to give relief from allergy symptoms. From its anti-inflammatory quality, the severity of an allergic reaction can be reduced, which is especially important for serious allergic reactions like anaphylactic shock, or swelling of the throat.
WEIGHT LOSS
In addition to its reputation as a natural immune booster, oregano oil also packs a punch against unwanted body fat. Its main active ingredient, carvacrol, is thought to modulate genes and reduce irritation in white adipose tissue.
USES AND REMEDIES
ACHES AND STIFFNESS
Oregano essential oil can relieve soreness and muscle discomfort. Simply create a 50/50 mixture of organic oregano oil and organic olive oil and apply topically to the affected area for relief. If you suffer from sore muscles, sports injuries, and backaches, this is one benefit you’ll appreciate.
MENSTURAL CRAMPS
Oregano is also known as a pain reliever and is very effective when suffering from menstrual cramps. You can simply chew some fresh oregano leaves three times a day to reduce menstrual pain.
COLD
Oregano oil isn’t a cure for the cold but it can add a layer to your immune system. Place 3-6 drops into an empty capsule and take 2-3 times daily before meals. A 5-10 day regiment has been reported as doing wonders.
NAIL FUNGUS
Put a few teaspoons of oregano oil in a basin of water and soak your feet in it. You can also dilute the oil (mix a drop with a teaspoon of olive or coconut oil), and then apply it on your nails or skin.
PARASITES AND INFECTIONS
Dilute the oil (mix a drop with a drop of a carrier oil such as coconut oil), and place it under your tongue. Hold it there for a few minutes, and then rinse it out. Repeat this at least four times a day.
OTHER REMEDIES:
- Dried oregano, in combination with other dried herbs like basil, rosemary and thyme, can create an effective facial steam for loosening congestion and calming coughing.
- It can be helpful in redding the body of ringworm when used topically.
- The diluted oil can be consumed to speed recovery during illness.
- It can be diluted for effective use on athlete’s foot and fungal infections.
- It can be effective in removing warts when used diluted on the skin.