This week we will feature a different essential oil every day. Today’s featured oil…..
Out of the vast array of essential oils, one stands out as the one essential oil every home should have…Oregano Oil. This oil is derived from the flowers and leaves of the oregano plant. It is a powerful antimicrobial that powerfully fights off infections. Because of its antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral properties, oregano oil has a wide range of uses and health benefits.
Oregano Oil has the highest content of phenols among all aromatic plants. Phenols are natural chemical compounds that have high antioxidant properties. They have natural fungicide and antiseptic properties that kill a wide variety of pathogens, breaking through the cell membranes of disease-causing microbes.
As a nurse and infection control preventionist, I have witnessed the over prescribing of antibiotics. Because of this over prescribing we have super bugs (bacteria) that are resistant tp many antibiotics. Don’t get me wrong, antibiotics are great and definitely have their place, but many times could be avoided with safe natural ones such as oregano oil.
There are many uses for oregano oil including treating infections, nasal congestion, sore throat, acne, cold sores, nail fungus, shingles, and psoriasis. Do not use oregano oil directly on broken or sensitive skin as it may burn. Mix with organic coconut oil for applying to skin conditions. You may add 2-3 drops of oregano oil to a glass of water to boost your immune system. Mix same parts of oregano oil with a carrier oil such as organic olive oil and apply to aches, sore muscles and backache. Add 2-3 drops to a diffuser or vaporizer to relieve nasal congestion and lung infections. Add several drops to your chicken coop water to prevent infections in your chickens.
Oil of oregano’s anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties make it a powerful natural remedy for fighting illness. Do your research and then decide if oregano oil is for you. If you do decide to try it, I recommend you purchase a certified organic oregano oil. Certified organic contains no harmful pesticides or herbicides or other additives. I purchase mine from bulkapothecary.com
Caution: Oregano oil is very strong so it should always be diluted and never applied directly to an open wound or broken skin. Always dilute in water, or other carriers such as olive oil, coconut oil, avocado oil, or jojoba oil. Don’t use oregano oil if you’re pregnant, nursing, have high blood pressure, or a heart condition; or are on medications or undergoing medical treatments. Avoid use in young children.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Keep away from eyes, genitals, and out of the reach of children.
