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| 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 smell of oregano is common in Italian, Mediteranian, North African and Mexican cooking establishments. True wild oregano (sometimes called wild marjorum) is the species Origanum vulgare. 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. History; Source Oregano leaves have been used traditionally for almost every ailment concerned with the respiratory and digestive system. 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. Function Most of the activity of oregano comes from the volatile oils including thymol, carvacrol, p-cymene and others. Full strength oregano oil is quite irritating and should never be ingested without diluting. This also delivers the oil further down in the GI tract, where its killing action may be needed. Avoid canola oil and Wesson or other commercial vegetable oils. Side-Effects; Counter-Indicators and Warnings 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. References & Further Information 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. |
| Blastocystosis (Blastocystis hominis) Fungal Skin / Nail Infection Yeast / Candida Infection |