The movement for finding natural remedies is increasing as fears of antibiotic resistance and unwanted side effects become increasingly more well-known. Originating in ancient Greece, oil of oregano is reputed to rival the efficacy of modern antibiotics with its germ-killing properties, without many of the side effects and risks associated with modern medicine.
The Facts
Mounting evidence points to oregano oil as a natural antibiotic, inhibiting the growth of germs like E. coli, salmonella, pseudomonas aeruginosa (a highly drug-resistant bacteria), klebsiella pneumonie (a type of pneumonia) and candida albicans (yeast). Some scientists maintain that oregano oil can also kill certain spores (like that of anthrax). It can be taken internally (either in liquid or capsule form) as an antibacterial/antibiotic or applied topically to a variety of skin conditions, to prevent wound infections and to promote oral health.
Research
In 2001, a Georgetown University researcher studied the effects of oregano oil against various bacteria, including those that are drug-resistant. Results of the studies indicated that the components of oregano oil inhibit infection with efficacy comparable to traditional antibiotics. The oregano oil inhibited the growth of germs like staphylococcus as effectively as streptomycin, vancomycin and penicillin.
A 2001 study at University of Tennessee's Department of Food Science produced evidence that oregano oil effectively killed germs like listeria, staph and E. coli.
In the February 2000 Journal, Applied Microbiology, British researchers suggested that oregano oil was effective as an antibacterial agent against more than 25 different bacteria.
Powerful Components
Some of the powerful components within oil of oregano include volatile oils (such as carvacrol and thymol), terpinines (like alpha/beta pinine and alpha terpinene), flavonoids (like naringin), tocopherols and derivatives of caffeic acid (rosmarinic acid, for instance). Carvacrol is an antimicrobial powerhouse that fights bacteria like E. coli and salmonella. It also has antifungal properties and may help to eliminate parasites. Thymol is also an antifungal and contains antiseptic properties. Terpinines have antibacterial properties (they are also found in tea tree oil). Rosmarinic acid is a potent antioxidant that helps to minimize cellular damage from free radicals and may be beneficial in treating allergic asthma. Naringin is an antioxidant (also found in grapefruit), as are tocopherols (also known as vitamin E).
One Product: Many Uses
The risk of germs developing antibiotic resistance to an all-natural substance is minimal, making oregano oil a promising new alternative to mainstream prescription medications. In addition to being a natural antibiotic with antiviral, antiparasitic, antibacterial and antifungal properties, oil of oregano can be used to treat a variety of maladies like allergies, bronchitis (use in a vaporizer) and yeast infections. It also may aid digestion, heal eczema and psoriasis, and regulate menstrual cycles
Apply it topically to treat acne, arthritis, athlete's foot, toenail fungus, dandruff and as a natural mosquito repellent.
Add a few drops to a bucket of warm or hot water for natural cleaning and disinfecting.
Considerations
Liquid oil of oregano should only be taken when diluted in a carrier oil (like olive oil). When the oregano oil is very concentrated, it may irritate mucous membranes and/or skin. Avoid getting the oil in your eyes, genitals or mucous membranes. A warm, tingly sensation is normal when taken by mouth. Pregnant or nursing mothers should consult a doctor before beginning this or any alternative treatment.
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