Uses for Oil of Oregano Glands

Oil of oregano is one of nature's own medicines. Its anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and anti-parasitic properties make oil of oregano useful to help treat a range of diverse afflictions and symptoms. Always stick to recommended dosages and be aware of possible conditions in which taking oil of oregano may be dangerous.

Skin Irritations

According to WebMD, oil of oregano extracted from the plants glands can be applied directly to a vast array of skin conditions. Acne, athlete's foot, varicose veins, psoriasis and rosacea can all be treated with oregano oil. It can also be applied to wounds and afflictions like spider bites, itchy spots, skin infections and irritated gums. When used on the skin, oil of oregano may reduce inflammation and pain in problem areas.

Digestive Upsets

The culinary spice oregano is officially called Origanum marjoram. The oregano used to make oil of oregano is Origanum vulgare, a different type of oregano. Although simply eating a lot of oregano may not have the same effect, ingesting oil of oregano has been known to ease many digestive symptoms. Oregano oil contains thymol and carvacrol, two chemicals that have been known to aid in digestion and calm upset stomachs, according to Home Remedies Web. This includes upsets caused by cold and flu viruses, as well as gastrointestinal conditions like heartburn and acid reflux.

Allergies

Healthy Oil Planet is an online guide to natural oils. It reports that oil of oregano contains rosmarinic acid, a natural antihistamine. If hay fever is getting you down but you don't like traditional allergy medications, oil of oregano May reduce your allergy symptoms. Home Remedies Web suggests adding three drops of oil of oregano to a glass of juice each day to reduce sinus pressure and congestion. It also advises taking this oil when you feel a cold coming on as a defense. Dr. Cass Ingram, author of "The Cure is in the Cupboard," suggests oregano is 70 percent carvacrol. In addition to being a digestive aid, carvacrol contains powerful anti-microbial activity or anti-inflammatory properties that may help with sudden allergy attacks and act as a decongestant.

Infection Fighter

Oil of oregano, according to WebMD, has been known to fight bacteria and, fungal infections, as well as parasites. It may be used as a remedy against ringworm when taken internally. When applied externally, oil of oregano may effectively keep away mosquitoes and fleas. It also may help against bacteria, which is another living organism that invades the body and can cause all kinds of problems, like typhoid and cholera.

Considerations

Pregnant women should not ingest oil of oregano, according to Home Remedies Web. Although it may help with symptoms of menstrual discomfort, irregularity and menopause, oregano increases blood flow to the uterus. This can weaken the tissue attaching the amniotic sac to the walls of the uterus and put the baby in danger.