Currently we all want to strengthen our health, that’s why we look for options that help us keep the body working properly, medicinal herbs being an excellent alternative to meet this objective.
In this sense, we can highlight oregano , which is a plant with medicinal benefits from which a wonderful oil can be extracted that helps in health care, since it has high levels of vitamins within its composition.
Now, oregano oil has multiple uses , since it can be used for cooking and medicinal treatments. For this reason, in this article we will inform you about some of its benefits, in order to include it in your daily life.
What is oregano oil?
Oregano oil comes from an aromatic herb called Origanum vulgare , used in the world of gastronomy and cosmetology. It is obtained from the extraction of the leaves, flowers and stems of the plant.
Note: It has a yellowish color with a pungent odor . Said liquid leaves an itchy sensation on the palate after consumption.
Oregano oil properties
Oregano essential oil is widely used due to its great versatility . Coming from a medicinal plant, it has great benefits for the body. Next we will indicate the properties that this wonderful liquid possesses:
1. Vitamins
Oregano oil is rich in vitamins A , C, E, and K , which help improve the appearance of skin, bones, and mental health. These components are ideal for fighting diseases and regulating the nervous system.
2. Minerals
Oregano essential oil is a source of minerals that help the entire body. Contains calcium, potassium , magnesium , iron, phosphorus, sodium, selenium, zinc and copper. It is one of the natural substances with the highest amount of nutrients, which is ideal for improving the health of the immune, respiratory and bone systems .
To highlight: In Mexico, a study was carried out on the components of Mexican oregano, knowing that this herb has macronutrients such as water, proteins and carbohydrates . In addition, it has large amounts of the aforementioned minerals. (1)
3. Other compounds
In 100 grams of oregano oil you can find 42.5 g of fiber , 26.8 g of protein and 49.5 g of carbohydrates , which provides a large amount of ideal nutrients to improve our health.
What are the benefits of oregano oil?
To improve our health, it is necessary to consume foods that help us have energy and stay balanced, with oregano essential oil being a highly functional substance that can be consumed and used as a topical . Some of its benefits are:
1. Boosts the immune system
This oil has antioxidants that help the immune system protect itself from environmental diseases and viruses. It also decreases cellular oxidation and controls insulin levels in the blood.
You should know: Oregano oil also has carotenoids, which improve the production of red and white blood cells.
2. Decreases the action of free radicals
One of the benefits of oregano essential oil is that it has antioxidants, which help to take care of health and fight against free radicals .
It also has polyphenols that reduce the risk of disease and cell oxidation. Similarly, it contains cryptoxanthin that removes toxins from the blood.
3. Fight viruses, fungi and parasites
Oregano oil has great microbial activity , being a powerful antibacterial with carvacrol that helps reduce bacteria and viruses that affect the immune system.
On the other hand, it contains thymol that controls viruses and parasites that affect the stomach and colon, which prevents fungi from strengthening and altering cellular microorganisms.
Important: A study in Colombia found that in the chemical composition of oregano essential oil there is a high content of thymol, antioxidant and microbiological properties that help reduce diseases. (two)
4. Relieves respiratory problems
Oregano oil helps to eliminate colds and colds. It can be consumed in infusions, teas and concoctions . Also, it contains phenols, which work as a great antiviral and antiflu .
To highlight: Oregano oil has vitamins A and C, which improve the defenses of the immune system and fight infectious respiratory diseases.
5. Reduces pain and inflammation
Oregano essential oil contains beta caryophyllin , a great anti-inflammatory that helps reduce pain caused by degenerative and chronic diseases. Similarly, this substance contains antioxidants that control inflammation and fluid retention. In addition, it has potassium that allows the expulsion of toxins from the body.
6. Improves digestive disorders
Oregano oil is ideal for improving digestive diseases , either orally or topically, since it helps control stomach acids . This allows the digestion process to be more effective.
Note: Similarly, it contains ocimene that helps the natural expulsion of flatulence and has limonene that regulates the expulsion of feces naturally.
7. Promotes the mood
Oregano oil is ideal for controlling and improving the nervous system . Its smell is a stimulant that reduces anxiety and stress . As already mentioned, it has vitamin A that regulates mood and alerts about hormonal processes such as menstruation and menopause.
8. Soothes skin conditions
This oil works to correct the appearance of the skin , helping to nourish the cells of the dermis so that they maintain their natural color. It also eliminates stains caused by environmental agents and allows it to be used to reduce flaccidity.
On the other hand, this essential oil contains very strong antifungal properties , which are ideal for treating skin conditions such as fungus, athlete’s foot, onychomycosis, and some skin rashes.
You should know : Oregano essential oil is an excellent tonic to prevent acne , warts, and scars.
9. Protects against cancer
Oregano oil contains carvacrol, an element that helps increase the death of tumor cells. In addition, its anti-inflammatory functions reduce cancer conditions , since its anticancer activity helps the immune system to be strengthened to combat this disease.
Important: A study in Venezuela showed that oregano oil has antioxidants, which help protect cells from oxidative damage . It also prevents the suffering of chronic-degenerative diseases such as cancer. (3)
How to use oregano oil?
Oregano oil is widely used in gastronomy for its delicious smell and flavor. It is an excellent conductor of flavors for proteins and salads. It can be used as a topping for dishes and appetizers, it can also be eaten in tea or infusions.
Similarly, in cosmetology it is an excellent balm to reduce ailments and eliminate dryness. This type of oil must be diluted with a base oil to reduce its concentration , that is, 1 drop for every 5ml of base oil , and then spread on the skin with a sterilized swab.
Important: The contraindications of this essential oil must be taken into account, since a high consumption of it can cause gastric complications and even liver poisoning . It is also not recommended to take it during pregnancy or in children under 12 years of age without consulting a doctor.
Key Findings
- Oregano essential oil is ideal for relieving inflammatory ailments and discomfort.
- This substance favors and regulates the intestinal flora.
- It also prevents the appearance of scabs and peels on dry skin, and can also be used to prevent acne.
- Contains omega 3 and 6 to strengthen the immune system
- It has all the vitamin groups and a large amount of minerals for the proper functioning of the body.
University Professional in the area of Human Resources, Postgraduate in Occupational Health and Hygiene of the Work Environment, 14 years of experience in the area of health. Interested in topics of Psychology, Occupational Health, and General Medicine.