Antibacterial properties
Oregano oil contains an essential substance, called carvacrol, which has antimicrobial properties.
The herb has shown antimicrobial activity in a number of studies. A group of researchers discovered that Origanum vulgare essential oils were effective against 41 strains of the food pathogen Listeria monocytogenes.
Another team from India and the United Kingdom (UK) reported that the essential oil of the Himalayan oregano has strong antibacterial properties that can protect against the hospital superb bacterium MRSA.
Anti-inflammatory properties
Scientists from Germany and Switzerland identified an active ingredient in oregano, known as beta-caryophyllene (E-BCP), which can help treat disorders such as osteoporosis and arteriosclerosis. E-BCP is a nutrition cannabinoid.
Protection against cancer
Research published in the journal PLoS ONE in 2013 suggested that oregano exhibits activity against cancer. The scientists concluded that Origanum majorana could help prevent and treat breast cancer by delaying or preventing progression.
In 2014, food scientists discovered that the popular culinary herbs contain oregano, rosemary and marjoram compounds that may treat the type 2 diabetes in a similar way to some currently prescribed drugs.
Other possible health benefits
According to The Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database, oregano can be used for the following diseases and conditions:
- cold sore
- muscle strain
- acne
- rose
- bronchitis
- a toothache
- bloated feeling
- a headache
- heart conditions
- allergies
- intestinal parasites
- an earache
- a sore throat
- fatigue
- ward off insects
- menstrual pain