Preventive Uses of Oregano Oil

One herb that is attributed with preventive qualities is oregano, specifically Origanum vulgare, or wild oregano. Origanum vulgare is the source of oil of oregano, which has been found to be a potent purifier that significantly inhibits harmful microorganisms that are known to have negative effects on humans. The preventive uses of oil of oregano make it a valuable remedy to have in your medicine cabinet.

History

• Oil of oregano, which comes from the leaves and flowers of the wild oregano plant, has been used for thousands of years. The ancient Greeks used it to heal wounds and treat such conditions as asthma, seizures and headaches. In the Middle Ages, oil of oregano was used to kill germs and as a food preservative.

Modern Day Uses

• Today, there are both medicinal and preventive uses for oil of oregano as an antibacterial, antifungal, antiparasitic and antiviral. It is also used for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

  Oil of oregano contains the following vitamins and minerals: vitamins A and C, calcium, boron, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, niacin and zinc--all vital to human health.

  Oil of oregano can be used topically to treat skin conditions including eczema and psoriasis, and fungal infections such as athlete's foot. It can be used internally to treat infections like colds and flu, sinusitis and bronchitis, and conditions such as menstrual irregularities, parasites and digestive disturbances.

Preventive Uses

• Preventive uses for oil of oregano include using the oil for treatment and prevention of vaginitis/yeast infections, dandruff, acne and asthma.

  Oil of oregano is also helpful at the first sign of a cold or flu, herpes or shingles outbreak, and can be used as a produce wash to assure that all traces of bacteria have been removed from produce from the garden or grocery.

  Because oil of oregano is considered to be a strong antioxidant, it can protect cells from free radical damage.

How to Use

• Oil of oregano can be taken by mouth either in drops or capsule form. The dosage you need may be different from the dosage another person needs. Start with the lowest dosage, and, if needed, increase it. Oil of oregano can upset the stomach, so take it with a snack or meal. If you are taking drops, you can mix the oil with water or dissolve the drops under your tongue.

  Used topically, oil of oregano can be applied directly to wounds or bites. You can also apply it directly on the scalp and skin. If your skin is sensitive, dilute the oil of oregano with a carrier oil such as olive oil. Never apply undiluted oil of oregano to sensitive parts of the body, such as the vaginal area.

How to Buy

• When shopping for oil of oregano, be certain that the packaging notes that the source plant is Origanum vulgare and P73 is marked on it to indicate the correct production methods.