Medicinal plants have long been used in traditional medicine for the treatment of many diseases, their prevention and the maintenance of health and beauty.
A special place is occupied by essential oils, which are widely used not only in medicine, but also in cosmetology and everyday life. One of the widely used products is oregano oil.
We will tell you what kind of plant it is and how to correctly apply the oil made from it in medicine and cosmetology.
What it is?
Origanum - a perennial herb. Distributed throughout Russia, Europe and the Mediterranean, mainly in a warm climate. The height of the ground part of the plant is 50-80 cm. Oregano is also known as oregano - one of the popular spices. It is also often used as tea.
But the most valuable in this plant is the essential oil. In appearance, the oil of oregano is a light, sticky liquid, pale yellow in color, resembling tea. Possesses pleasant spicy and flower aroma.
Product used as an aid in the treatment and prevention a large list of diseases, has antiseptic properties. According to the results of many studies, oregano oil can replace antibiotics and is even used in the treatment of cancer in its early stages.
An important condition is to comply with the appointments of specialists. Self-medication can lead to serious consequences.
How to make?
For the manufacture of essential oil of oregano is used the ground part of the plant. It is produced by water-steam distillation. In order to get 1 kg of oil, it is necessary to process about 500 kg of raw materials.
At home, getting a good, clean product is difficult, but you can make an infusion oil yourself. This will require fresh oregano, which can be collected in places of growth, or bought from herbalist.
Useful properties of oregano
The main active ingredient in oregano oil is carvacrol. - A powerful antibacterial component that slows the growth and spread of bacteria. It is they who determine most of the beneficial properties of this oil. Other phenols included in its composition also have useful properties.
Oregano oil has a deadly effect on harmful microorganisms, so it is a good antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal agent. It has expectorant, spasmolytic, diuretic, hemostatic, anti-parasitic properties.
Indications for use
Thanks to its wide range of properties, Oregano oil is used in the prevention and treatment of many diseases at different stages.
- The product helps to fight the flu, sore throat, acute respiratory viral infections, colds.
- It has a diuretic effect.
- Eases menstrual pain and improves well-being during menopause and menopause.
- Relieves nervous tension, anxiety, irritability.
- Helps eliminate toothache.
- Heals the skin, fights against skin burns.
- Helps to quickly recuperate.
- Effectively in the fight against lice, internal parasites.
- It is used in the treatment of fungal diseases.
- Oregano oil is also used in cosmetology to combat cellulite, treat and prevent dandruff, stimulate hair growth, treat calluses and warts.
- In aromatherapy, essential oils have a special place. Oregano oil is here, both separately and in combination with other oils.
- In addition, housewives have long used sasha, oregano-soaked for storage in cabinets, wet places.
Chemical composition
By chemical composition, the main elements of oregano oil are:
- Cariofillen (13.6%).
- Trans - β-otsimen (10.99%).
- Cis-β-otsimen (10.91%).
- Germacren-D (10.4%).
These basic components make up almost 50% of the substance. The oil also contains 17 components with concentrations greater than 1%, which is 39.96% of the total number of components. The remaining part of the oil is formed by 33 substances with individual concentrations of less than 1%.
Harm and contraindications
Despite the large number of useful properties and indications, the use of oregano oil is not suitable for everyone.
The main contraindications are:
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding.
- Infertility of the product.
- Epilepsy.
- Ischemia of the heart.
- Hypertensive crisis.
It is not recommended to use oregano oil to children under 3 years. If used improperly or overdose, there may be side effects. Such as:
- Disturbance of iron abilities.
- Allergy.
- Skin irritation.
To avoid these unpleasant consequences, it is necessary to apply oregano oil in accordance with the recommendations and the instructions of specialists. In no case do not self-medicate. This can lead to deterioration and serious consequences.
Dosage and administration
The use of oregano essential oil helps to improve digestion, enhances the production of digestive enzymes that help the body absorb useful and valuable substances.As a result, improves metabolism, the work of the gastrointestinal tract. In addition, oregano oil helps to control cholesterol levels, promotes burning of accumulated fat.
- The product is an excellent assistant for poisoning and intoxication. For these purposes, it is taken orally: 3-5 drops of oil for 1 tsp. honey 2-3 times a day for adults and 1-2 drops 2 times a day for children. Duration of treatment: from 2 weeks.
- Another important property of oregano oil is the fight against parasites. To do this, within 6 weeks should take 1-3 drops of oil in a glass of juice or milk 3 times a day. It is recommended to do this under the supervision of an expert.
- For toothache and gum disease, dilute the oregano oil with olive oil in a 1: 1 ratio, apply around the damaged gums or tooth. This will help reduce pain and prevent tissue inflammation.
- Oregano oil is a useful and necessary ingredient in the diet of girls and women of all ages. It contributes to the normalization of the cycle, helps more comfortable to move the symptoms of menopause. To do this, the oil is used in diluted form inside in the ratio of 1: 3 on a regular basis.
- Oregano oil is used for the prevention and treatment of fungal infections, as it is a strong antifungal agent. If there are signs of infection on the nails and cuticle, it is necessary to treat the affected area up to 3 times a day. It is also necessary to process shoes with a warm solution of oil and water.
- Oregano oil is used in the fight against one of the most common diseases - arthritis. The oil penetrates deep into the skin, reaching the affected areas and works as an anti-inflammatory, anesthetic.For topical use in arthritis, it is necessary to mix 5 drops of oregano oil with 20 drops of olive or coconut oil. Then apply the mixture to the affected area. When ingested, add 2-3 drops of oil in a glass of juice. The course of treatment is 6 weeks with a break of 2-3 weeks. After the break, the course can be repeated.
The use of oregano essential oil helps to improve digestion, enhances the production of digestive enzymes that help the body absorb useful and valuable substances.In cosmetology
Essential oils, including oregano oil, also found a great use in cosmetology. It is used in various spa treatments, in combination with other oils and active ingredients.
- Essential oil of oregano in the treatment and control of acne due to its antiseptic properties. In order to remove the redness and soreness of acne, you need to add a few drops in the usual means for washing. Or moisten a cotton pad in a water solution of oregano oil and wipe their face on a regular basis.
- With regular use of oil inside and washing with it, wrinkles and other signs of aging are noticeably reduced. This happens due to nutrition and saturation of the skin.
When dandruff appears, add a few drops of oregano oil to your shampoo in the ratio of 2-3 drops of oil per tablespoon of shampoo. With regular use of such a tool, the results will be noticeable in just a few applications, and in a week the problem will go away completely.- Masks using oil perfectly nourish the scalp, strengthen hair. Mix oregano oil with coconut oil in a ratio of 1: 4, apply to clean hair and scalp. Flush such a mask is not necessary.
- In the fight against warts and the treatment of corns will help the mixture of oils of oregano and coconut in the ratio of 1: 3. Apply to the damaged area.
- Another problem that will help solve this oil - cellulite. In addition to the use of the inside, use the oil for vacuum and anti-cellulite massage. With regular use of the manifestation of "orange peel" will decrease in a few days.
When dandruff appears, add a few drops of oregano oil to your shampoo in the ratio of 2-3 drops of oil per tablespoon of shampoo. With regular use of such a tool, the results will be noticeable in just a few applications, and in a week the problem will go away completely.For inhalation
Thanks to its antiviral, antiseptic and expectorant properties, Oregano oil is used for inhalations during ARVI and other viral diseases.
Add 2-3 drops of oil to boiling water, remove from heat. Then cover your head with a towel and take a breath of steam. The duration of inhalation - no more than 5 minutes. This method also helps well with nasal congestion, runny nose (including allergic).
In aromatherapy
Like many essential oils, oregano oil is actively used in aromatherapy.
You can add a few drops in the water while taking a bath. Or use it in the aroma lamp. Oregano oil has a calming, relaxing effect, will return to a state of peace and tranquility after a hard day.
Where to buy and what to look for when choosing?
Oregano oil in its pure form can be bought in pharmacies, in eco-friendly stores, in online stores. On the market various volumes from 5 ml are presented. There are proposals from both domestic and foreign manufacturers.
Sold both in ampoules and in glass packaging. It is advisable to choose the packaging of dark colors. Do not buy oil in plastic containers.
When buying, you should pay attention to the availability of international certificates confirming the quality of the product (such as EU Organic Bio; Organic Food Federation; BioLand; Leaf of Life; EcoCert, etc.).
When buying should pay attention to the composition. The product should not contain impurities, extracts of other plants. Also, if possible, it is worth assessing the external and organoleptic properties of the product. A high-quality essential oil of oregano has a tart-floral aroma, in color it resembles tea, its consistency is slightly lingering mass.
How to store?
After purchase, the oil is best used within 1-2 months. After opening, it is recommended to use it for a couple of weeks. Store the essential oil in a cool dark place. The best storage option is a fridge. Keep out of reach of children and animals, as overdose can lead to side effects.
What is combined?
Oregano oil is quite versatile and goes well with many others.. Excellent olive, coconut oil. In cosmetology it is used with oils of jojoba, apricot, grape seed, almond. In aromatherapy, you can add to lavender, sage, anise, juniper.
As we see, oregano essential oil is a multifunctional product that you need to have at home for all occasions. The main thing is to follow the recommendations for use and dosages and do not forget about contraindications. And you and your family will be healthy, beautiful, and your home will always be comfort and tranquility.
