Oil of Oregano

© Copyright Bee Wilder

Oregano Oil is a very versatile herb, which is not only a strong antifungal but also provides many other health benefits and it treats many types of disease and symptoms. As an antifungal it is extremely effective, just like raw crushed garlic.

A word of caution!

  • If you are taking blood thinning drugs, oil of oregano acts similarly in thinning the blood. If you take oregano oil with blood thinning drugs your blood pressure may drop too low and you blood may become too thin.


  • Oil of Oregano is not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

True Oil of Oregano

Oil of oregano is a completely natural substance derived from wild oregano species. The plant grows in remote mountainous regions free of pollution. Only the leaves of the flowering plant are used. They are picked precisely when the plant is highest in essential oil.

Being wild, it is grown chemical-free and the oil is extracted via a completely natural process - no chemicals or solvents are used. The oil is the source of virtually all of the plant's active ingredients.

There are a wide variety of plants that are confused with oregano, including marjoram, thyme and sage. True oregano grows wild in Mediterranean regions such as Greece and Turkey. Wild oregano is the source of surprisingly potent oil of oregano.

The key element in oregano is the oil, which Foster points out in his book "In Herbal Renaissance" "contains carvacrol and thymol as the primary components." Foster attributes the "fungicidal and worm-expellant properties" of oil of oregano to carvacrol and thymol. "These two phenols may constitute as much as 90% of (the oil)."

Cass Ingram, D.O., writes in his book "The Cure is in the Cupboard" "these two phenols [carvacrol and thymol] work "synergistically" and that is the reason "oil of oregano" packs a double punch in antiseptic power and explains why it is infinitely more potent than commercial phenol, in microbial killing power."

Treats Candida and Fungal Skin Conditions

All of this helps make oregano oil a significant factor in treating internal and external candida. Skin conditions, such as psoriasis and eczema, can be improved with oil of oregano as well. Ingram explains the astonishing discovery that "oil of oregano outright destroys all variety of fungi and yeasts, regardless of where they reside."

Oil of Oregano is a potent antiseptic used both topically and internally. Research demonstrates that it is effective in killing a range of organisms, particularly yeast and bacteria.

Effective Against Bacteria

Oil of oregano at relatively low doses was found to be effective against Staphylococcus bacteria and was comparable in its germ-killing properties to antibiotic drugs such as streptomycin, penicillin and vancomycin. [Science Daily 10/11/2001]

Researchers at the Department of Food Science at the University of Tennessee reported that, among various plant oils, oil of oregano exhibited the greatest antibacterial action against common pathogenic germs such as Staph, E. coli and Listeria. [Journal Food Protection, Volume 64, July 2001] British researchers reported oregano oil had antibacterial activity against 25 different bacteria. [Journal Applied Microbiology, Volume 88, February 2000]

The growing problem of antibiotic resistance has health authorities extremely concerned. It is already the case that various germs are showing resistance to vancomycin (strong antibiotic), particularly to intestinal bacteria (Enterococcal species) among hospitalized patients. [Southern Medical Journal, Volume 94, August 2001]

Drug resistance does not develop against naturally-occurring antibiotics such as garlic and oil of oregano. But oil of oregano is not to be confused with common oregano in the kitchen spice cupboard, which is usually oregano marjoram, rather than true oregano (Oregano vulgare).

The benefits of oregano have gone largely unnoticed and under-publicized for far too long. As Ingram notes, oregano is "one of the world's finest natural medicines that is if it's true oregano."

Oil of Oregano Oil Treats the Following:

  • allergies
  • antifungal, capable of killing a variety of fungi, including candida albicans
  • antioxidant powers
  • arthritis, osteoarthritis, rheumatism, and other related problems
  • athletes foot
  • bacterial infections and parasites
  • bee stings, insect bites and venomous bites, immediate relief from
  • dandruff, diaper rash, cradle cap
  • diarrhea and intestinal gas
  • digestive problems, aids digestion and stimulates the production of bile
  • eczema
  • immune system boost
  • migraine headaches
  • muscle aches and pains
  • nail fungus
  • pain killer – nearly as powerful as morphine
  • psoriasis
  • respiratory problems, i.e. asthma, hay fever, candida in the lungs, etc.
  • sinus and nose problems
  • skin disorders and rashes
  • sore throat
  • thrush (white coating in the mouth, which is candida)

The oil of the oregano plant is the source of virtually all of its active ingredients. Oil of oregano is a potent germ killer and it has also been known to completely eliminate allergies and sinus problems. Jean Valnet, in his book "The Practice of Aromatherapy," describes how oil of oregano is so strong that it is capable of sterilizing sewage.

Research on Oil of Oregano

Researchers have uncovered numerous benefits to using oregano and extracted oil of oregano. But buyer beware, these significant health benefits are not as attainable if the oregano is not the true substance. True oil of oregano offers many exciting remedies for a variety of ailments.

Research published in the International Journal of Food Microbiology found that oil of oregano is an excellent germicide capable of killing a wide range of fungi and bacteria.

According to the Journal of Applied Nutrition oil of oregano is highly effective for killing Candida. Researchers in Mexico found it possesses strong anti-parasitic actions, especially against Giardia. As published by Sarer researchers its antiseptic powers are "remarkable."

Oil of oregano is also a powerful pain killer. An article published in Phytotherapy Research describes how oregano oil superseded (came before) anti-inflammatory drugs in reversing pain and inflammation and is nearly as powerful as morphine as a pain killer.

Herbal Renaissance

In his book "Herbal Renaissance," Steven Foster credits oregano as having "been employed to treat indigestion, diarrhea, nervous tension, insect bites, toothache, earache, rheumatism and coughs due to whooping cough and bronchitis (primarily for it's antispasmodic effects)." The ancient Greeks were among the first to take advantage of oregano's medicinal qualities. The Greeks termed the spice origanos, meaning "delight of the mountains."

The Cure is in the Cupboard Book

Cass Ingram, D.O., has written the book "The Cure is in the Cupboard" that is dedicated to unveiling the health benefits of oregano and oil of oregano. He notes that "wild oregano is a veritable natural mineral treasure-house, containing a density of minerals that would rival virtually any food."

The wild oregano is rich in a long list of minerals that includes calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron, potassium, copper, boron, and manganese and vitamins C, A (beta carotene), and niacin. Judging from its mineral content alone, it isn't hard to figure out why oregano is such a valuable commodity.

Supermarket Remedies

Oregano is one of Nature's finest preservatives, states Ingram in another book, "Supermarket Remedies." The author suggests that if oregano is used with foods such as meat, eggs, milk, or salad, you "will greatly halt the growth of microbes and, thus, reduce the risk for food poisoning."

How to Take Oregano Oil

Oregano oil is very strong if placed undiluted directly in the mouth or on the tongue. So it is best to dilute it by mixing drops into 1 teaspoon of unrefined coconut oil or extra virgin olive oil. Drops can also be put into small gelatin capsules (No. 0), purchased at the drug store - gelatin capsules at the health store are much more expensive.

Please note: It is better to take oregano oil more frequently during the day, rather than taking a number of drops all at once.

When taking oregano oil it is recommended you drink plenty of water along with it. This helps flush your system of any toxins that may result when the oil kills off bacteria, parasites, candida and other pathogens.

To treat babies or children rub oil of oregano mixed with unrefined coconut oil or extra virgin olive oil directly into their feet.

How to Treat Candida with Oil of Oregano

Oregano oil is a powerful antifungal. So it is wise to start with low doses and gradually increase them. The dose is dependent upon the strength of oil contained in the product that is purchased. Different brands can contain from 50% to 75% oregano. The more potent the brand the more it will cost. See a list of brands and their respective strengths at the end of this article.

Take 1 drop 3 times a day if the brand is 100% oregano oil. If the strength is 50-75% you can take 2 drops three times a day, and so on. If it is intolerable, causing too many reactions or symptoms, mix 1 drop with more coconut oil or olive, and split up the amount taken throughout the day.

You can also apply oregano oil to nail fungus and skin disorders at least twice daily. Be cautious about applying it full strength to sensitive skin areas due to the heat it produces. It doesn't actually burn the skin, although it may feel like it does when applied to broken skin or rashes. Oregano oil can be diluted in coconut oil or extra virgin olive oil when applying it to sensitive skin. For dandruff add a few drops to your shampoo.

How to Treat Other Symptoms & Diseases

Anti-Inflammatory for Diseases Involving Joints and Tendons

An article published in Phyotherapy Research describes how oregano oil surpassed anti-inflammatory drugs in reversing pain and inflammation and how it is nearly as powerful as morphine as a painkiller.

Oregano oil has the ability to penetrate the skin and reach as far as the synovial fluid in joints. It helps alleviate arthritis, bursitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, sore muscles, sports injuries and even backaches.

Rub a few drops into the skin covering the affected area. You can apply it as many times a day as you like. Oregano oil has the ability to penetrate through the skin right into the synovial fluid of the joint where its anti-inflammatory and pain-killing properties will provide relief. Taking it internally is also recommended.

Bacteria

Oregano oil also is a terrific natural antibiotic that works against bacteria. Lab tests have proven it is effective as one of the strongest antibiotics (Vancomycin) in killing staph, E. coli and other bacteria.

It does this without creating mutant strains of drug-resistant bacteria, and it has none of the debilitating side effects of pharmaceutical antibiotics. For those bedridden or in the hospital, oil of oregano is a defensive weapon against potentially deadly bacteria. It is easy to take and is effective against any known forms of pathogens.

Bites, stings

Oregano oil has the ability to neutralize and extract venom from insects, spiders and snake bites. If you are planning to enjoy the great outdoors take a bottle with you.

If you have an allergy to wasp or bee stings, timely topical and internal application of oregano oil could save you. Apply it to red, swollen bites to help them disappear faster.

Burns

For typical burns that are painful and blistered, oregano oil provides almost instant pain relief – often no blister will develop if it is applied immediately. Mix 1-2 drops into 1 teaspoon of extra virgin olive oil or unrefined coconut oil and apply it to the burn gently.

How to Treat Children

To administer oregano oil to children or babies rub mix drops into 1 teaspoon of unrefined coconut oil or extra virgin olive oil, and rub it into their feet.

Ear infections

Ear infections are best treated by rubbing oil of oregano around the outside of the ear. It may need to be diluted with oil when treating children. Do not put oil of oregano directly in the ear canal.

Parasites

Oregano oil has shown to be effective in killing many types of parasites, including giardia and pinworms, along with other nasty creatures than can inhabit our intestines. Mix 2-3 drops of oregano oil with 1 teaspoon of extra virgin olive oil or unrefined coconut oil, taking it up to 10 times per day.

Respiratory Problems

Lung problems can be difficult to treat if the lungs become infected with a virus, bacteria or candida, or if you suffer from asthma or allergies. Oregano oil is highly volatile, which means the molecules become airborne easily, therefore it is great for treating the respiratory system.

For lung and respiratory problems, inhale the vapors directly from the bottle as often as necessary. Also take it internally by mixing 1-2 drops into 1 teaspoon of extra virgin olive oil or unrefined coconut oil, at least 4 times a day. You can also put a drop or two on a tissue and put it by your pillow at night, so you will breath it in.

Scabies

Oregano oil is very effective against scabies. Apply it several times a day. Mix 2-3 drops of oregano oil with 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil or unrefined coconut oil and rub it well into each scabies spot. Continue treatment until the scabies are eradicated.

Skin Disorders

Adult acne, psoriasis and eczema are often candida related and may require topical treatment with oil of oregano. Mix 2-3 drops of oregano oil into 1 teaspoon of extra virgin olive oil or unrefined coconut oil and apply it to sensitive skin. Do not apply oil of oregano full strength to broken skin or rashes.

Stomach problems

Throughout history, oregano has served as a cure for upset stomach caused by food poisoning, parasites, ulcers, bacterial and fungal infections. Take 3 to 7 drops with or after meals, mixed with 1 teaspoon of extra virgin olive oil or unrefined coconut oil. Food poisoning may require more aggressive doses. Oil of oregano can safely be taken 10 times a day or more, if needed, but only in small amounts each time.

Teeth and Gums

When you have a toothache, rub oregano oil around the infected tooth. If it is too strong, mix it with some extra virgin olive oil or unrefined coconut oil. It will kill infection and reduce pain. For diseased gums rub the oregano oil over the gums, and take it several times a day.

Mix one drop of oregano oil with less than 1 teaspoon of extra virgin olive oil or unrefined coconut oil and hold it under your tongue until the saliva gathers. You can also take a sip of water. Then swish it around in your mouth for 2 minutes, and swallow. Do this 3 or more times a day.

Place a drop of oregano oil on your toothbrush when brushing. You will find that plaque does not build up on your teeth, and the health of your gums will improve dramatically.

Viral Attacks, Herpes, Hepatitis or Shingles

When you feel the onset of a cold, flu, herpes or shingles, you should immediately increase your dosage to 3 drops of oregano oil every one to two hours to keep levels high while fighting an attack. You can also apply the oil on your skin.

Hepatitis and herpes are two viral infections that have responded well to treatment of oregano oil. Remember that taking oregano oil more often during the day is better than taking a lot all at once.

Oil of Oregano Brands

Oil of oregano brands vary greatly as to strength, which largely determines cost - the higher the content of oregano oil the higher the price. All brands listed below contain extra virgin olive oil.

Some companies do not state the kind of processing used to extract the oils, which is a very important factor. Later on I will add the processing methods to this list. All prices shown are in US dollars. It appears that the first 3 listed are the best, but for price and quality Bio-Alternatives wins:

References

  1. Roger Baird, "High on the Herbal Heirarchy," Vista Magazine, Issue 39, p. 66.
  2. Roger Baird, "Treating Yourself with Wild Oregano Oil," Vista Magazine, Issue 44, p. 52.
  3. "Oil of Oregano"