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Quote of the day:

“The battles that count aren't the ones for gold medals. The struggles within yourself—the invisible, inevitable battles inside all of us—that's where it's at."

– Jesse Owens

Oregano Oil

What is it?

Oregano is a culinary herb that belongs to the mint family. It is native to the Mediterranean region and is commonly used in cooking for its strong, aromatic flavor. Oregano is known for its earthy, slightly bitter taste and is a staple in Italian, Greek, and Mediterranean cuisines.

Oregano oil, on the other hand, is a concentrated form of the essential oil extracted from the oregano plant. It is obtained through a steam distillation process that captures the volatile compounds present in the plant. Oregano oil is highly potent and has gained popularity for its potential health benefits.

Oregano oil contains compounds such as carvacrol and thymol, which are known for their antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. It is often used as a natural remedy for colds and the flu. This version or oregano is commonly called “oil of oregano”. This is different than essential oils used in diffusers, that you CANNOT ingest.

Why does it matter?

Oregano oil has been traditionally used for thousands of years for the many health benefits and is often called “natures antibiotics”. Some of the health benefits are:

• Respiratory support: Oregano oil has been used as a natural remedy for respiratory conditions like coughs, colds, and sinus infections. Its antimicrobial properties may help fight off pathogens that cause respiratory infections.

• Antimicrobial properties: Oregano and oregano oil contain compounds such as carvacrol and thymol, which have antimicrobial properties. They may help inhibit the growth of certain bacteria like SIBO, fungi, and parasites, potentially supporting the immune system and promoting overall health.

• Antioxidant activity: Oregano is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals. Antioxidants play a role in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, which are associated with various chronic diseases.

• Anti-inflammatory effects: Some studies suggest that oregano and its components, such as carvacrol, may possess anti-inflammatory properties. This may be beneficial in reducing inflammation in the body, which is linked to conditions like arthritis, cardiovascular disease, and certain types of cancer.

• Digestive support: Oregano has been traditionally used to aid digestion and relieve symptoms like bloating and indigestion. It may help stimulate the flow of bile, which aids in the digestion and absorption of fats.

• Fungal infections: Oregano oil has been used as a natural remedy for various fungal infections, including athlete's foot. The antimicrobial properties of oregano oil, specifically its active compounds like carvacrol and thymol, may help inhibit the growth of fungi responsible for infections.

How to add into your daily routine?

To incorporate oregano and oregano oil into your routine, both for cooking and potential health benefits, here are some suggestions:

Cooking with oregano herb:

• Sprinkle dried oregano on pizzas, pasta sauces, and grilled vegetables for added flavor.

• Use fresh oregano leaves in salads, marinades, or as a garnish for soups and stews.

• Combine oregano with other herbs like basil, thyme, and rosemary for a flavorful herb blend.

• Infuse olive oil with dried oregano to create a homemade herb-infused oil for dressings or dipping bread.

Using oregano oil:

Oregano oil is available in various forms, including capsules or softgels. Oregano oil capsules are a convenient way to consume oregano oil, as they provide a measured dosage and are easy to take. NOTE: given its potency, you do not want to take longer than 10 days. Typically, I am using this as a replacement of cold medicine or antibiotics when I am sick.

When considering oregano oil in pill form, it's important to keep the following points in mind:

• Quality and purity: Ensure that you choose a reputable brand that provides high-quality oregano oil capsules. Look for products that are standardized for the active compounds, such as carvacrol and thymol, and undergo third-party testing for purity and potency.

• For pills, the two options I like for Oil of Oregano are Designs for Health and Gaia Herbs.

• If you are taking the 100% pure liquid oil, like this one from Gaia, make sure you are diluting it with water.

When using it topically:

• Always remember to dilute oregano essential oil with a carrier oil, like coconut oil, before applying it to your skin.

It's important to note that while oregano and oregano oil may offer potential health benefits, they are not meant to replace medical treatment. If you have any specific health concerns, it's always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before using oregano oil for medicinal purposes.

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