- Wild oregano is a great source of vitamin C, niacin and vitamin A. Oregano also contains a wealth of minerals, such as manganese, copper, iron, zinc, calcium and magnesium. According to Dr. Cass Ingram in his book, "The Cure is in the Cupboard," the true power of oil of oregano lies in the carvacol and thymol, oregano oil's two main components that work together to kill microbes and shield the body against toxins. Oregano oil also contains flavonoids, which are natural antiseptic agents and traces of terpenes, which has natural anti-inflammatory properties.
- The anti-inflammatory agents and antioxidants found in oil of oregano make this essential oil a popular supplement for individuals suffering from fibromyalgia (FM), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), myofascial pain and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). Many people swear that oregano oil helps ease allergic reactions and sinus pressure. Some claim that taking oil of oregano internally can stave off chronic yeast infections. Because oil of oregano is believed to kill most bacteria, it is often used to treat staph infections, strep throat and E. coli.
- Oil of oregano is often used to knock out skin infections and fungus problems. Oil of oregano has been reported to help the symptoms of individuals suffering from psoriasis, nail fungus, athlete's foot, eczema, hangnails and acne. Just a drop of this potent oil should be placed on the affected area. Many people also take a capsule of crushed wild oregano to help fight the topical infection from the inside as well as on the outside.
- Oil of oregano is used sublingually for internal health problems. Three to six drops should be placed underneath the tongue and held there for at least 30 seconds. It takes at least half a minute for the body to absorb the supplement through the membranes located under the tongue. Individuals should be very careful to avoid getting any of the oregano oil on the top or sides of the tongue, the corners of the mouth or the lips, because this product will burn a little if it touches sensitive areas.
- The leaves of the oregano plant should be picked while it is flowering in order to process the highest concentration of essential oil. When using oil of oregano for health reasons, make sure the oregano plants were never treated with any kind of chemical and were cultivated in an unpolluted area. Marjoram and thyme, which are herbs related to oregano, are often incorrectly labeled as wild oregano and won't have any of wild oregano's healthy properties.
