Oil of oregano is a well-known folk remedy used to kill bacteria, viruses, fungus and yeast. The oil derives much of its healing properties from carvacrol and thymol, two naturally occurring compounds. Carvacrol is a powerful antimicrobial that has been shown effective in fighting staphylococcus bacteria. Thymol is naturally antiseptic and the main ingredient in many mouthwashes. Oil of oregano contains calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron, potassium, copper, boron, manganese, vitamins A and C, and niacin. The health benefits only come from wild Mediterranean oregano–not the varieties sold dried on most store shelves. The most therapeutic benefits come from two plant varieties of wild oregano: thymus capitatus and origanum vulgare. It can be ingested and applied topically.
1. Clear sinuses – Unclog sinuses with a facial steam made using oil of oregano. Boil three to four cups of water in a pot, remove from heat after the water boils. Add several drops of oil of oregano to the water. Take the lid off the pot to let the steam rise. Place a towel around your head and over the pot and slowly inhale the steam. The oil of oregano will help kill any bacteria in the sinuses and lungs. You also add ½ cup of vinegar for another antibacterial boost, although it won’t smell so great. An oil of oregano facial steam may help with allergies, as oil of oregano is a natural antihistamine.
2. Reduce infections – Oil of oregano may be as good at reducing infections as traditional antibiotics, like streptomycin, penicillin and
vacnomycin. Two studies have shown that oil of oregano may be as effective of a treatment against staphylococcus bacteria as common antibiotics.
3. Boost your immune system – Taking oil of oregano as either capsules or liquid–may help lessen symptoms of colds and get you feeling better faster. The natural antiviral and antibacterial properties in oil of oregano can relieve a sore throat. Gargle a mixture of 5-6 drops oil of oregano with a glass of water the moment you feel a sore throat coming on.
4. Get rid of fungus – Oil of oregano is a powerful antifungal herb that can be used to treat fungus conditions like athletes foot and yeast infections. It was found to be more effective than other natural supplements in cases of yeast infections resistant to the conventional drug fluconazole (Diflucan), according to research published in the Canadian Journal of Microbiology.
5. Antioxidant powers – Oregano is loaded with antioxidants. A study by the U.S. Department of Agriculture found that oregano has more than 42 times the antioxidant activity than apples and 12 times more than oranges. You can take oregano oil in pill or liquid form for a boost of antioxidants.