| Oregano essential oil is the condensed essence of | | | | consulting your doctor. |
| the oregano herb. Though the herb shares a similar | | | | Benefits: |
| name with the common Italian spice, the two are | | | | The oregano essential oil benefits are numerous. The |
| entirely different plants and two do not share | | | | oil can be taken either internally or externally, |
| chemical components and health benefits. Native to | | | | depending on the ailment that is being treated. Some |
| the Mediterranean, the word "oregano" is Greek for | | | | of the external uses include soothing rashes and |
| "joy of the mountains", resulting from the powerful, | | | | irritated gums, gargling to cure an itchy throat or |
| aromatic scent that the plant gives off. The plant | | | | fighting off bacteria from an open wound. |
| typically grows to about 2.5 feet in height. Though a | | | | Internally, oregano may be used to treat very |
| lot of variation is found in this species, only a few are | | | | different ailments. For example, oregano oil kills the |
| considered good enough to make essential oil from. | | | | microorganisms that cause digestive problems and |
| Components: | | | | skin irritation. It also boosts the immune system, |
| Some of the basic components of oregano relay | | | | further reducing the chance of illness. It has also been |
| some of the most dramatic health benefits. The two | | | | proven to improve the flexibility of joints and |
| most active chemicals in the herb are carvacrol and | | | | muscles. Regular consumption will improve respiratory |
| thymol. Both of these chemicals are potent | | | | health by loosening phlegm in the lungs and relieving |
| antimicrobials and will reduce the number of harmful | | | | bronchial spasms that can cause significant pain. |
| bacteria in the body and lower the chance of | | | | Availability: |
| infections. Some of the other important components | | | | Oregano oil is available in thee different forms, as the |
| of oregano essential oil include gamma-terpinene, | | | | actual oil, as a capsule and as a tablet. The method |
| p-cymene, alpha-pinene and myrcene. | | | | you choose depends on what you're trying to treat. |
| Due to the high concentration, Some of these | | | | Obviously, external use will require the essential oil, |
| chemicals are toxic to the liver and kidney if | | | | while internal issues may be treated using the capsule |
| consumed, so always consult with a licensed herbalist | | | | or tablet. Always consult your physician prior to |
| prior to taking, especially if you are pregnant or may | | | | taking any herbs or essential oils to avoid potential |
| become pregnant. Also, be sure not to take oregano | | | | health risks. |
| in conjunction with any pharmaceuticals without first | | | | |