Commonly employed as a standard kitchen spice, oregano is an herb originating in the Mediterranean area. It is a known solution to all manners of parasitic, bacterial, fungal, and viral infections. It is a completely natural way to keep the body healthy, and most agree that it is just as effective as most doctor-prescribed medicine. It can be ingested as a spice in any number of foods (commonly salad and pasta), or in a more concentrated form as an oil.
The leaves and flowers from the oregano plant are used to create a potent extract known simply as “oil of oregano.” Due to its growing conditions, it is easily one of the healthiest herbs in the world; it can only flourish in environments that have remained relatively untouched by pollution (for example, in the mountains of the Mediterranean). The plant produces an oil naturally over time and it is extracted to create a natural health supplement.
Topical Application
As an oil, this substance can be rubbed onto areas of the skin that are irritated or infected in some way. Due to the potency of the oil it must be watered down or mixed with some kind of diluting medium to be used safely. It can also be applied to the gums without fear, as it is perfectly safe to ingest.
Dental Hygiene
The antiseptic agents in oregano oil make it a great way to cleanse the mouth. It is also known to provide quick, short-term relief of pain or irritation for many conditions – including simple toothaches.
Antifungal/bacterial Properties
Staphylococcus, a bacteria better known for causing what is colloquially referred to as a staph infection, can be destroyed by oil of oregano. It carries antifungal and antibacterial properties that can be taken advantage of topically and internally (again, as long as the oil is diluted). Salmonella is another well-known bacteria that is fought off by oregano.
Cold Relief
Regular consumption of oil of oregano in light amounts can greatly reduce one’s risk of developing a cold. There is, of course, no cure for the common cold, but this oil can also at least provide relief from its symptoms (such as a sore throat).
Fight Allergies
Two important elements of oregano are concentrated in its oil that provide relief from allergic reactions. These elements are rosmarinic acid and carvacrol. It can be used to reduce swelling, inflammation, and itchiness, as well as clear the sinuses and reduce irritation that causes sneezing.
Migraines and Headaches
Putting oil of oregano in a humidifier or by boiling the oil can produce steam which relieves sinus headaches and dampens the severity of migraines. It can also be rubbed onto the skin after being diluted to provide the same effect (generally on the forehead between the eyebrows).
Aid the Digestive System
Also due to the carvacrol that fights allergies, as well as thymol which is a natural antiseptic, indigestion and other digestive issues can be alleviated by oil of oregano.
Possible Negative Effects
Out of all possible oil of oregano side effects, the most significant is its reduction in the natural absorption of iron into the bloodstream. This is easily corrected by taking iron supplements concurrently. Toxicity brought on by over consumption of this oil can seriously harm the body due to drastically low levels of iron.
Women who are pregnant require a significant and steady supply of iron. As such, oregano in all forms should be avoided by pregnant women to avoid complications. Small amounts as a spice may be harmless, but regular use or any concentrated form could be dangerous. Another one of the oregano oil side effects that is specifically dangerous for women is its targeted stimulation of blood circulation. For women, the area that is affected is the womb, which could expose the developing fetus to harm.
Finally, allergic reactions are not uncommon; oregano is in the same family as basil, sage, thyme and mint, so any allergies to these plants may also be experienced with oregano. Preliminary reactions could include rashes, nausea, and skin discomfort, with more severe reactions including anaphylactic shock being possible.
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