Oil of Oregano is a potent antiseptic used both topically and internally. Research demonstrates that it is effective in killing a range of organisms, especially yeast and bacteria.
The body of positive evidence for oregano oil as a major antibiotic is growing. Among 52 plant oils tested, oregano was considered to have “pharmacologic” action against common bugs such as Candida albicans (yeast), E. coli, Salmonella enterica and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Pseudomonas is a type of germ that is getting more difficult to treat as it has developed strains that are resistant against antibiotic drugs.
- Oil of oregano at relatively low doses was found to be efficacious against Staphylococcus bacteria and was comparable in its germ-killing properties to antibiotic drugs such as streptomycin, penicillin and vancomycin.
- 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.
- British researchers reported oregano oil had antibacterial activity against 25 different bacteria.
- Of recent interest are reports showing that carvacrol from oil of oregano kills spores, such as Bacillus cereus and Bacillus anthracis (anthrax). Bacillus cereus is considered to be from the same species as Bacillus anthracis (anthrax).
In tests of antibiotics and antiseptics, Bacillus cereus is often used in studies in lieu of the anthrax strain.
- The growing problem of antibiotic resistance has health authorities concerned. Already various germs are showing resistance to vancomycin, particularly to intestinal bacteria (Enterococcal species) among hospitalized patients.
- Vancomycin is considered to be the most potent antibiotic available and is withheld from use as a drug of last resort. Drug resistance does not develop against naturally-occurring antibiotics such as garlic and oil of oregano.
- While the killing action of oregano oil in many studies was the result of activity in a “test tube” or culture media, enterically coated products will deliver the oil into the GI tract. These antibacterial actions have not yet been confirmed by human clinical trials.
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 essential oil distilled from oregano leaves contains varying amounts of thymol and carvacrol which can constitute as much as 90% of the oil. One should be sure to get oregano oil from a reputable company, for it has been suggested that many of the oils available commercially are derived from non-oregano species, particularly various types of marjoram and thyme. Furthermore, there are different concentrations of oregano oil available that are being made with different extraction processes which may involve the use of solvents. Typical doses, depending on the concentration are 1-4 drops, capsules or tablets; 1-4 times per day.
You can try adding bulk oregano oil to capsules when taking it internally. Start with a small amount and increase slowly. It is best when taken with food. However, since this volatile oil is quickly absorbed and associated with inducing heartburn, some may require them to be taken in coated capsules, so they do not break down in the stomach but instead are delivered to the small and large intestine. This also delivers the oil further down in the GI tract, where its killing action may be needed.
When using pure oregano oil topically, make sure to dilute it in a carrier oil such as almond, olive, or another pure vegetable oil to avoid burning the skin. Avoid canola oil and Wesson or other commercial vegetable oils.
Caution
Oil of oregano may reduce the absorption of iron, so take the oil at least two hours before or after consuming iron supplements. Side-effects are minimal, but allergic reactions to oregano oil and a sensitivity to plants in the same family (thyme, basil, hyssop, marjoram, mint, sage) can occur. It should not be applied in full strength to the skin.
Oregano Oil can help with the following
Parasite, Blastocystosis
One study investigated the use of oregano oil in the treatment of GI parasites in 14 adult patients. After 6 weeks of treatment, there was a complete disappearance of Entamoeba hartmanni in 4 cases and Blastocystis hominis in 8 cases. Gastrointestinal symptoms improved in 7 of the 11 patients infected with B. hominis. [Phytotherapy Research. 2000; 14: pp.213-214]
Yeast / Candida
Place 3 drops of oregano oil into an empty gelatin capsule (or vegicap), or mix the same amount of oil into juice and take 3 times each day. Enteric-coated preparations are better for fighting candida and are available at about 50-100mg of oil per capsule or tablet. Several weeks of continuous use may be required for the anti-fungal properties of oil of oregano to clear up a deep-seated Candida infection.
Fungal Skin / Nail Infection
Oregano oil appears to be effective but can irritate surrounding tissues. It can be diluted with a little olive oil to reduce this effect.
Periodontal Disease - Gingivitis
Dilute oregano oil in a small amount of water and dab onto the affected tissues 3-4 times per day to kill the bacteria causing inflammation.
Athletes Foot
Rubbing a drop or two of oregano oil into an area that is itching from athlete’s foot may help resolve the problem, but caution is advised when using it topically as it can burn the skin when too concentrated.
Key
| May do some good |
| Likely to help |
| Highly recommended |
Glossary
Antiseptic
Inhibiting growth of infectious organisms.
Yeast
A single-cell organism that may cause infection in the mouth, vagina, gastrointestinal tract, and any or all bodily parts. Common yeast infections include candidiasis and thrush.
Bacteria
Microscopic germs. Some bacteria are "harmful" and can cause disease, while other "friendly" bacteria protect the body from harmful invading organisms.
Candidiasis
Infection of the skin or mucous membrane with any species of candida, usually Candida albicans. The infection is usually localized to the skin, nails, mouth, vagina, bronchi, or lungs, but may invade the bloodstream. It is a common inhabitant of the GI tract, only becoming a problem when it multiplies excessively and invades local tissues. Growth is encouraged by a weakened immune system, as in AIDS, or with the prolonged administration of antibiotics. Vaginal symptoms include itching in the genital area, pain when urinating, and a thick odorless vaginal discharge.
Gastrointestinal
Pertaining to the stomach, small and large intestines, colon, rectum, liver, pancreas, and gallbladder.
Essential Oil
Volatile terpene derivative responsible for the odor or taste of a plant.
Stomach
A hollow, muscular, J-shaped pouch located in the upper part of the abdomen to the left of the midline. The upper end (fundus) is large and dome-shaped; the area just below the fundus is called the body of the stomach. The fundus and the body are often referred to as the cardiac portion of the stomach. The lower (pyloric) portion curves downward and to the right and includes the antrum and the pylorus. The function of the stomach is to begin digestion by physically breaking down food received from the esophagus. The tissues of the stomach wall are composed of three types of muscle fibers: circular, longitudinal and oblique. These fibers create structural elasticity and contractibility, both of which are needed for digestion. The stomach mucosa contains cells which secrete hydrochloric acid and this in turn activates the other gastric enzymes pepsin and rennin. To protect itself from being destroyed by its own enzymes, the stomach’s mucous lining must constantly regenerate itself.
Iron
An essential mineral. Prevents anemia: as a constituent of hemoglobin, transports oxygen throughout the body. Virtually all of the oxygen used by cells in the life process are brought to the cells by the hemoglobin of red blood cells. Iron is a small but most vital, component of the hemoglobin in 20,000 billion red blood cells, of which 115 million are formed every minute. Heme iron (from meat) is absorbed 10 times more readily than the ferrous or ferric form.