Oregano extract and essential oils are derived from the same plant, however they are not the same product. Several research and anecdotal evidence suggest that these oils have a variety of health benefits.
This article addresses the possible benefits of oils obtained from the oregano plant.
What is oregano oil?
Oregano, botanically known as Origanum vulgare, is a flowering plant that belongs to the mint family. It is commonly used as a herb to flavor cuisine.
Air-drying the plant's leaves and shoots yields oregano essential oil. Once dried, the oil is extracted and concentrated by steam distillation.
Oregano essential oil can be mixed with a carrier oil and used topically. However, you should not take it orally as is.
Oregano contains chemicals known as phenols, terpenes, and terpenoids. They have strong antioxidant qualities and are responsible for their scent.
Carvacrol, the most prevalent phenol in oregano, has been found to inhibit the growth of various types of bacteria.
Thymol: This natural antifungal can boost the immune system and guard against contaminants.
Rosmarinic acid is a strong antioxidant that protects against free radical damage.
These chemicals are thought to be behind oregano's numerous health advantages.
Here are eight potential benefits and applications for oregano oil.
1. Natural antibiotic.
Oregano, which includes carvacrol, may aid in the battle against germs.
While many purported advantages of essential oils are based on anecdotal evidence, limited study reveals oregano essential oil may have antibacterial properties against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and E. coli, both of which are common causes of urinary and respiratory tract infections.
Although further human studies are needed to determine the effects of oregano oil extract, it includes many of the same constituents as oregano essential oil. It may have comparable health benefits when used as a supplement.
2. May help reduce cholesterol.
Oregano and its oils include a variety of polyphenols, including carvacrol and thymol. According to research, these active chemicals can help decrease cholesterol levels.
Limited research on rabbits reveals that chemicals in oregano oil may decrease cholesterol levels.
3. A powerful antioxidant.
Antioxidants help protect the body's cells from free radical damage.
Free radicals are a natural byproduct of metabolism, but they may contribute to the aging process and the development of certain diseases, such as cancer and cardiovascular disease. They can also accumulate in the body after being exposed to environmental variables such as cigaret smoke and air pollution.
Because oregano oil extract is so concentrated, you'll need considerably less of it to get the same antioxidant advantages as fresh oregano.
4. May help treat yeast infections.
Yeast is a form of fungus. It can be harmless, but overgrowth can cause human infections. Certain Candida yeasts grow naturally on the skin but can infect the mouth, genitals, blood, and internal organs.
According to studies, oregano essential oil can help prevent Candida infections.
5. May boost intestinal health and alleviate discomfort.
Oregano essential oil may aid gut health in a variety of ways due to its anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antiparasitic, and antibacterial qualities.
Oregano essential oils have also been shown in studies to offer promising pain-management properties.
6. Could contain anti-inflammatory qualities.
Inflammation in the body is associated with a variety of negative health outcomes. Oregano oil has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties.
A 2017 research discovered that while numerous molecules in oregano essential oil have anti-inflammatory capabilities, they can also be harmful to specific cells. As a result, further controlled studies are needed to thoroughly assess its therapeutic potential.
7. Could have cancer-fighting qualities.
Several studies have suggested that carvacrol, one of the chemicals found in oregano oil, may have cancer-fighting potential.
Carvacrol has shown promise in test-tube investigations on cancer cells from the lung, liver, and breast. It has been discovered to impede cell proliferation and induce cancer cell death.
Although this is interesting study, no human studies have been undertaken, thus additional research is required.
8. Could help you lose weight.
Oregano oil, which contains carvacrol, may help with weight loss and obesity therapy.
More research is needed to show that oregano oil aids in weight loss, although it may be worth considering as part of a healthy diet and lifestyle.
How to Use Oregano Oil
Oregano oil extract is commonly accessible as capsules and tablets. It can be purchased at most health food stores or online.
Because the strength of oregano supplements varies, it is critical to follow the recommendations on each particular packet for guidance on how to take the product.
Oregano essential oil is also available, and it can be diluted with a carrier oil before using topically. It's important to note that no essential oils should be consumed.
If you want to use oregano oil extract but are already taking prescription medications, talk to your doctor before starting.
Conclusion
Oregano oil extract and oregano essential oil are inexpensive and widely available.
Oregano is higher in antioxidants than most fruits and vegetables, and it contains potent chemicals known as phenols.
Oregano also includes chemicals that may be beneficial for bacterial and fungal infections, inflammation, and discomfort, among other ailments.
Overall, it looks to have a number of health benefits and could be used as a natural treatment for certain common health issues.