Herbs have been used for medicinal purposes for centuries, and oregano is no exception. This humble herb is actually packed with health benefits that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. If you’re looking for a way to boost your health, oregano is a great option. You can add it to your food, take it in supplement form, or even use it topically.
Here are a few health benefits of oregano that you should know.
Rich in Antioxidants - Oregano is a highly nutritious herb that is rich in antioxidants. These nutrients scavenge harmful toxins and by products that can damage cells, leading to inflammation. Oregano is also a good source of vitamins A, C, and E, which are all important for maintaining optimal health.
May Help Reduce Viral Infection - The plant oregano is a member of the mint family and is native to temperate regions of the world. It is a perennial herb with green or purple leaves and white, pink, or purple flowers. Oregano is used as a spice in many cuisines. The health benefits of oregano include its ability to act as an antispasmodic, antiviral, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-boosting agent. Oregano essential oil can also be used topically to treat a variety of skin conditions. Some research suggests that oregano may help reduce viral infections. A study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine found that oregano essential oil was effective in reducing the infectivity of several types of viruses, including herpes simplex virus-1 (HSV-1), human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), and influenza A virus (IAV). In vitro studies have also shown that oregano essential oil can inhibit the growth of several types of bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), Escherichia coli (E. coli), and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa). These findings suggest that oregano may help reduce the risk of bacterial infections.
May Help Fight Bacteria - The essential oil of oregano contains two powerful compounds, carvacrol and thymol. These compounds have been shown to have antibacterial activity against a variety of harmful bacteria, including Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. In addition, oregano essential oil has been shown to inhibit the growth of Candida albicans, a type of yeast that can cause infections in the body. The antimicrobial properties of oregano may also help to fight off harmful bacteria in the gut.
Joint pains - In addition, oregano essential oil has been shown to reduce the symptoms of arthritis. In one study, rats given oregano essential oil had a decrease in markers of joint damage, such as collagenase and elastase. The anti-inflammatory effects of oregano essential oil may also help to improve gut health.
