Last winter I saw a friend posting that they were using oregano essential oil to treat their families for cold and flu symptoms. I wanted to do some research before flu season this year to search ways to protect our family.
Oregano essential oil, Origanum Vulgare, has a powerful, camphor-like aroma. Oregano essential oil is extracted through steam distillation of leaves and is a thick consistency with a pale yellow color. It blends well with Lavender, Rosemary, Bergamot, Chamomile, Cypress, Cedarwood, Tea Tree and Eucalyptus.
Oregano essential oil is thought to have the following properties:
- analgesic
- anti-rheumatic
- antiseptic
- antispasmodic
- antitoxic
- antiviral
- bactericidal
- carminative
- diuretic
- expectorant
- fungicidal
- parasiticide
- stimulant
Because it has a high carvacol (active ingredient) content oregano essential oil is considered to have some of the greatest antiseptic and anti-bacterial properties.
Cautions:
Oregano essential oil is a dermal and mucous membrane irritant and a maximum dilution of 1% for topical applications. Possible drug interactions can occur. Do not use if pregnant, nursing or with children under 2 years of age.
Uses for Oregano Essential Oil:
- Treat congestion, asthma or bronchitis by adding 2-3 drops of Oregano EO in 1 tbsp of carrier oil or lotion and apply to the chest.
- Treat arthritis and muscular pain by adding 2-3 drops in a carrier oil or lotion and massage affected area.
- Treat Warts/Skin Tags by using a dilution of 10%-25% (learn more about EO dilution) and use a cotton swab to apply directly to the wart or skin tag 2-3 times a day. Consider applying carrier oil to the surrounding skin to avoid irritation.
- Treat athlete’s foot or any type of fungus by diluting in Fractionated Coconut Oil at 1-3%. Test spot to make sure the dilution isn’t too hot (irritating). Apply directly on the affected area 2-3 times a day.
- Treat cold and flu by diffusing Oregano essential oil in your favorite diffuser.
Sources:
http://essentialoilblogging.com/2014/08/22/feature-friday-oregano/
http://www.aromaweb.com/essential-oils/oregano-oil.asp
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2014/02/01/oregano-health-benefits.aspx
http://essentialoilblogging.com/2014/04/28/how-to-use-oregano-essential-oil/
