Oregano

Oregano is a plant that is commonly used in cooking. The oil extracted from its leaves has a long history of medicinal use. Over the centuries, oregano oil has been used to treat a range of ailments including spider bites, respiratory problems and menstrual problems. Today, oregano oil is marketed to treat a long list of health problems.

What is oregano oil used for?

There are many claims regarding the effectiveness of oregano oil for different applications. However, there is little scientific evidence to suggest that it is effective for any of these uses. Oregano oil is often marketed for the treatment of digestive parasites and related symptoms such as bloating, cramping, constipation, diarrhea and fatigue. One study concluded that taking 200 mg of oregano oil three times a day for 6 weeks eliminated such parasites. However, this study was small, inconclusive and was also funded by a supplement manufacturer. Some laboratory studies show that oregano or its components have properties that can kill some germs found in food. However, there is no scientific evidence that oregano can help prevent food poisoning. Oregano oil has been used to treat hypersensitivity to yeast. In this condition, too much of the yeast Candida Albicans can cause symptoms such as a stuffy nose, headaches, fatigue and depression. This condition is not recognized as a disease by conventional medicine and there is no scientific evidence that oregano helps treat these symptoms. Oregano oil is used orally to treat respiratory conditions such as coughs, asthma, croup and bronchitis. In addition, oregano oil is marketed as an aid for urinary tract infections, stomach upsets and heartburn. When applied to the skin, oregano oil is used to treat acne, athlete's foot, dandruff, warts, gum disease and toothache.

In addition to these applications, oregano is marketed for numerous other uses. However, there is no scientific research to support these claims.

Dosage

Optimal dosages of oregano oil have not yet been determined for any of the ailments and applications mentioned.

Can oregano be consumed naturally through food?

In addition to its use as a spice, oregano leaves can be used to make a type of tea.

Risks and side effects

Experts agree that oregano is safe and harmless when used as a spice. Nothing is known about the safety of oregano when used for medicinal purposes.

Due to its properties, there are a few things to keep in mind when using oregano or oregano oil in medicinal quantities: Oregano oil can be toxic in large amounts, oregano can have a diuretic (dehydrating) effect, and large amounts of oregano can cause stomach upset.

Pregnant women should not consume oregano in medicinal quantities, as it could lead to miscarriages in such doses. Furthermore, people taking lithium should avoid oregano.

People who are allergic to certain plants such as basil, lavender, marjoram, mint and St. Joseph's wort should also avoid oregano.