Complete Guide to Oil of Oregano

Nature's Most Powerful Defender

From Ancient Mediterranean Hillsides to modern day medicine cabinets, Oil of Oregano has earned a reputation as one of nature's most powerful herbal remedies. It's been referred to as "liquid gold" and this powerful essential oil is much more than just a concentrated version of an herb you sprinkle on pizza, it's a complex bioactive powerhouse that's been used for centuries to support the immune system and to combat a variety of ailments. 

Where Does Oil of Oregano Come From?

Oil of Oregano comes from the Origanum Vulgare plant, a perennial herb native to the Mediterranean region. While there are many species of oregano, the medicinal grade oil is sourced from specific wild grown varities found in higher altitudes in mountainous regions of Turkey and Greece. 

The process of sourcing is critical to its efficacy. To create the oil leaves and flowers of the plant undergo steam distillation to extract the volatile compounds without using harsh chemicals. The magic of the oil lies in its high concentration of phenols, particularly two types of phenols called carvacrol and thymol. Carvacrol is the primary active ingredient, higher quality oils will typically contain at least 70% to 80% carvacrol. 

What Are The Benefits of Oil of Oregano?

The most popular benefit of Oil of Oregano or the reason its a staple in natural medicine is most notable its antimicrobial, antifungal, and antioxidant proeprties which is why people love to use it.

• Immune Support: It's commonly used at the frist sign of a cold or flu. Research suggests that carvacrol may help inhibit the growth of bacteria and viruses. 
• Gut Health: Oil of Oregano is a popular herb for addressing SIBO or Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth and yeast overgrowth like Candida. It acts as a natural cleaners for the digestive tract.
• Respiratory Health: When inhaled or even taken internally it can help clear mucus and soothe respiratory inflammation.
• Antioxidant Power: Oil of Oregano is packed with antioxidants that protect the body against free radical damage which is essential for long term cellular health. 
• Hair Growth: Oil of Oregano is considered good for hair growth because its rich in vitamins like Vitamin C and B6, its antimicrobial effects can help fight scalp infections and it helps boost circulation to create a healthy scalp environment while strengthening follicles and encouraging fuller thicker hair growth. 

Who Can Benefit From Oil of Oregano?

Oil of Oregano is best suited for those looking for short term acute support. its great for those who feel a scratchy throat or itch in their throat coming on, travelers looking to avoid stomach bugs or people dealing with persistent fungal issues like athletes foot or nail fungus. Because Oil of Oregano is so powerful its generally not recommended for infants or very young children. Pregnant women or breastfeeding women should also avoid it as it has been shown to affect blood flow and hormone levels. 

How to Use Oil of Oregano?

• Capsules: Capsules are the easiest way to take it internally. It helps to bypass the taste buds and ensures the oil reaches the digestive system without irritating the throat.
• Liquid Oil: If using liquid it must be dilluted, you never want to put oil of oregano directly under your tongue. Mix 1-3 drops in a carrier oil like olive oil or a small amount of water. 
• Topical Use: For skin or nail issues dilute it with a carrier oil like coconut oil or jojoba oil at a ratio of 1 drop of oregano oil to 1 teaspoon of carrier oil. 

Does Oil of Oregano Have Side Effects?

While Oil of Oregano is natural, its not gentle, its a powerful medicinal substance that carries some risks. These risks include...

• Gut Flora Imbalance: Because its so effective at killing bacteria long term use can potentially deplete the good bacteria in your gut. Its generally recommended to take it no more than 7-10 days at a time and follow it up by taking a good probiotic to restore that healthy gut bacteria.
• Blood Thinning: Oregano Oil can have mild blood thinning effects. If you are on anticoagulants or have an upcoming surgery you should discontinue its use.
• SKin Irritation: If applied undiluted it can cause significant redness or a checical like burn to the skin. 

The Bottom Line on Oil of Oregano

Oil of Oregano is a remarkable herb from the Mediterranean. When used properly and with respect for its potency it can be a highly effective alterantive to over the counter remedies for immune and digestive support. Just remember to respect it and that dilution is the key and short term use is best.