Oregano oil's therapeutic uses
Oregano oil, derived from the oregano plant commonly found in the Mediterranean region, has a history of use in traditional medicine for various ailments. Historically, it was used to treat wounds, respiratory issues, and, more recently, conditions like yeast hypersensitivity syndrome, which is linked to an overgrowth of the yeast Candida albicans. Despite its popularity in alternative medicine, scientific studies validating these uses, particularly for yeast hypersensitivity, are lacking. While oregano oil exhibits antimicrobial properties and has shown some benefits in studies—such as improving symptoms in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis and reducing oral plaque—it is important to approach its claims with caution.
In addition to its potential benefits for respiratory health, oregano oil is suggested for digestive issues, inflammation, and even as a weight loss aid. However, many of these proposed uses lack robust scientific backing. Safety is a consideration, as essential oils can be toxic in large quantities and may cause allergic reactions. Additionally, the effects of oregano oil on vulnerable populations, like young children and pregnant or nursing women, have not been thoroughly studied. Overall, oregano oil offers a range of therapeutic possibilities, but further research is needed to substantiate its effectiveness for many of the claimed health benefits.
Oregano oil's therapeutic uses
- DEFINITION: Natural plant product used to treat specific health conditions.
- PRINCIPAL PROPOSED USE: Yeast hypersensitivity syndrome
- OTHER PROPOSED USES: Colds and flu, human immunodeficiency virus support, intestinal parasites, antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, digestive health, oral health
Overview
The common food spice oregano grows wild in the mountains of Mediterranean countries. In Ancient Greece, oregano or its essential oil was used to treat wounds, snake bites, spider bites, and respiratory problems. Respiratory uses dominated the medicinal history of oregano in medieval Europe, but in the nineteenth century, physicians in the Eclectic School (a medical movement that emphasized herbal treatment) used oregano to promote menstruation.
Therapeutic Dosages
A typical dose of oregano oil is 100 milligrams (mg) three times daily of a product standardized to contain 55 to 65 percent of the presumed active ingredient carvacrol.
Therapeutic Uses
In the 1990s, yeast hypersensitivity syndrome (often called systemic candidiasis or candida) became popular in alternative medicine circles. This theory states, in brief, that many people develop excessive levels of the yeast Candida albicans and subsequently experience symptoms of allergy to the yeast in their bodies. The symptoms of this purported syndrome include common conditions such as fatigue and headache. A succession of anticandidal treatments were offered, including oregano oil.
Scientific Evidence
It is true that oregano oil is toxic to many different types of microorganisms, including fungi and parasites. However, the same is the case with hundreds of essential oils of herbs, not to mention vinegar, alcohol, and bleach. It is a long way from killing microorganisms in a test tube or on the surface of a block of cheese to medicinal effects in the body. Only double-blind, placebo-controlled studies in humans can prove a treatment effective, and none have been performed on oregano oil for this purpose. Further, in the 2020s, yeast sensitivity syndrome is not considered a recognized medical condition. Therefore, oregano oil is not considered a treatment, and there continues to be no supporting scientific evidence for this use.
There is a related theory that many people suffer from undiagnosed intestinal parasites; oregano oil is marketed for the treatment of this purported problem as well. Oregano oil is also advocated for dozens of other illnesses, ranging from asthma and human immunodeficiency virus infection to rheumatoid arthritis, though without any reliable justification. It has been proposed for several other therapeutic uses as well. Its antioxidant properties are believed to protect against free radicals, which can lead to long-term chronic health conditions. Its anti-inflammatory properties may aid in arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease. Supplementation with oregano oil has been suggested for digestive issues such as gas, bloating, and indigestion. Other proposed uses include supporting weight loss, as an insect repellant, alleviating pain, and wound healing.
Scientific evidence has begun to emerge confirming some therapeutic uses for oregano oil. A 2023 study found that supplementation with oregano oil reduced the symptoms and improved the quality of life for patients with chronic rhinosinusitis. A 2019 study found that when added to mouthwash, oregano oil reduced plaque and gingivitis.
Safety Issues
There are no specific safety risks associated with using oregano oil products. However, essential oils of herbs can be toxic when taken even in relatively small quantities. Allergic reactions are also possible. Safety in young children, pregnant or nursing women, and people with severe liver or kidney disease has not been established.
Bibliography
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