Yeast Free Living

What is Oil of Oregano?
I am sure that you are familar with the herb oregano.  It is an ingredient included in many of the world’s most loved Italian, Greek and Spanish dishes.  Oregano enhances the flavor of many dishes and compliments other herbs such as that it is commonly combined with such as basil.  Although oregano is commonly known and readily available many people are unfamiliar with the existence of and therefore the health benefits of an extract of this very herb called Oil of Oregano.  Oil of Oregano is an essential oil derived from wild oregano plants (Origanum Vulgare).  It is part of the Labiatae or the minty family and is native to Mediterranean regions such as Greece.  It is through the process of steam distillation that the oil is extracted from the oregano plant.  Although there are numerous species of Oregano not all are created equal.  The Origanum Vulgare species is thought to have the right blend of active ingredients in order to produce the best quality oil.  Its health benefits have been established over many centuries having been used in both cooking and medicinally by many cultures.  Today its health benefits are further supported by ongoing clinical research. 

What are the Active Ingredients in Oil of Oregano?   
The active ingredients in oil of oregano are plentiful but the main active ingredient is carvacrol.  An adequate concentration of carvacrol is necessary to reap the medicinal benefits of oil of oregano.  Carvacrol a type of phenol, is an essential oil present in another well known herb, thyme, although not in as high an amount.  Carvacrol has been shown to inhibit the growth of several bacteria strains.  Due to its antimicrobial activity coupled with its low toxicity profile and pleasant taste it has also been researched as a potential food additive to preserve meat products.  The other ingredients found in oil of oregano are p-cymene, alpha-pinene, myrcene, thymol, flavonoids, caffeic derivatives.   Although carvacrol is the main active ingredient these other compounds in the right quantities enhance the antimicrobial, antifungal and antiparasitic effects of the carvacrol. 

What are the uses of Oil of Oregano?  
Oil of Oregano is used for many ailments.   It’s documented health benefits and medicinal use dates back to ancient times by the Greeks.   It has been used as a home remedy for centuries and it use is now being supported by clinical research.  Some possible uses for it include but are not limited to: 

Viral Infections
Bacterial Infections
Fungal Infections
Parasitic Infections
Skin Infections
Respiratory Infections
Gastrointestinal Problems
Antiseptic

What can it do to help Candida Overgrowth (Candidiasis)?
There is growing evidence that oil of oregano is a potent antifungal.  In several clinical studies it was shown to kill and inhibit the growth of Candida Albicans.  In has also been proven to be effective against parasites which need to be addressed to effectively treat candida overgrowth.  

What are the side effects of using Oil of Oregano?
It can cause skin irritation and burns if applied at full concentration.  Follow instruction on supplement on how to dilute for proper topical use. 

What are additional precautions of using Oil of Oregano?
Safety has not been established for use during preganancy.

Where and how do I buy Oil of Oregano? 
It is readily available in your local health food store, The Vitamin Shoppe, GNC or online.  It is available in liquid and capsule form.  The most important thing to be sure of when purchasing is that the carvacrol concentration is at least 70%.  This is very important in order to gain the full therapeutic benefits of the product.  Be sure to read labels carefully.  If this is not explicitly stated move on to another brand.