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What Does Oil of Oregano Do?

Oregano is an herb that grows perennially in warm climates, such as those in Mediterranean regions. Oil of oregano, which is said to have many medicinal benefits, is derived only from certain species of the many oregano vaarieties that are found worldwide. The essential oil derived from the Origanum vulgare species is thought to provide the most benefits. A steam distillation process is used to carefully extract the oil to ensure its curative benefits are not destroyed.

  1. Benefits

    • There are about 50 compounds in oil of oregano that have antimicrobial properties. When taken orally or topically, a few drops of oregano oil may help a number of ailments. Advocates claim they include athlete's foot, indigestion and yeast infections. It is also believed to have preventive and curative properties against the flu virus.

    Study

    • A 2001 Georgetown University study published by "Science Daily" found that when tested on animals, oil of oregano was effective in preventing the development of staphylococcus bacteria. As this strain of bacteria is responsible for many infections and is sometimes resistant to standard antibiotic treatments, this could be a valuable advance if proven to be as effective for humans.

    Considerations

    • Although many people swear by the health benefits of oregano oil, published studies that show it to be medicinally helpful have been performed only on animals or in test tubes. In 2005, the Federal Trade Commission filed legal action against a company that used unproven health claims to market their oil of oregano. Due to lack of clinical trials, taking oil of oregano is not advised without consulting your health care provider.

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