Benefits of oregano for skin | Ways to use | Who must not use | FAQs on the use of oregano oil for the skin
Proper skincare consists of two essential components: taking good care of your skin and avoiding abuse. Despite your best efforts to protect your skin, there are various environmental factors that you cannot control, such as UV rays and pollution. That’s why it’s crucial to maintain a good skincare routine to minimise the effects of such damage. While there are many natural remedies to preserve skin health, you may not be aware of using oregano for this purpose. In this article, we will explore this option, and we are confident you will find it helpful.
Derived from the same family as mint, Origanum Vulgare, commonly known as oregano, is a widely used flavouring herb in food. However, this herb also boasts a plethora of medicinal properties due to its rich content of various compounds such as phenols, terpenes, and terpenoids. These compounds are responsible for oregano’s distinct fragrance and potent antioxidant capabilities, making it a valuable addition to any health regimen. Additionally, oregano oil has proven to be an effective tool for maintaining healthy skin. Let’s take a closer look at some of its most noteworthy benefits.
Six benefits of oregano for skin
1) Boost skin complexion and brightness
Notably, oregano oil is rich in vitamins A, C, E, and K, making it an exceptional antioxidant. In addition, carvacrol and thymol, which have antibacterial and antioxidant properties, are also present in oregano oil.
Many individuals include oregano oil in their skincare regimen to combat the signs of ageing. Mix it with a carrier oil like coconut or jojoba oil to give your skin a radiant and youthful glow. The astringent properties of oregano oil are also well-known for their ability to tighten skin.
2) Nourishes the skin
Oregano oil is rich in natural nutrients, and vitamins such as A, C, K, and E. Its unique blend of skin nutrients can work wonders for your skin by providing ample nourishment and soothing skin irritations. If you consistently apply oregano oil with carrier oil, you can expect to see improvements in your complexion and skin texture, as well as a reduction in blemishes.
3. Prevents skin infections
Oregano oil is a powerful fighter against harmful microorganisms like bacteria, fungi, and viruses. It contains compounds such as carvacrol and thymol, which possess potent antimicrobial properties. Topical application of oregano oil can effectively eliminate these microorganisms and prevent them from spreading, thus shielding your skin from infections.
Also Read: Neem Oil Benefits For Skin – What You Need To Know
4. Helps improve acne
Using oregano oil on acne-prone skin may help improve acne due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Studies suggest that oregano oil can inhibit the growth of Cutibacterium and Staphylococcus epidermidis, two types of bacteria known to cause acne. Additionally, it can reduce inflammation associated with acne, leading to significant improvement in the condition of acne-prone skin.
Also Read: Tired Of Acne? Why Not Try These Simple, Time-tested Natural Remedies?
5. Helps treat toenail fungus
Oregano oil is a powerful tool to combat toenail fungus, thanks to its thymol content, which possesses potent antifungal properties. While persistent fungal infections may require time to heal, oregano oil does work.
Use a cotton swab to apply the oil twice daily, topically on the affected toenail. Once you see results, you can reduce the application to once a day until the fungus is entirely eliminated.
Note: You may use oregano oil without mixing it with carrier oil for toenail fungus alone.
6. Refreshes the scalp
Oregano oil isn’t just great for the skin; it can also work wonders for your hair. Applying it to your scalp will create an incredibly effective refreshing and cooling sensation.
Thanks to its potent antifungal properties, oregano oil also eliminates dandruff and prevents dry flakes. Plus, it’s been scientifically proven to provide remarkable relief from scalp itchiness caused by hives, dandruff, or other skin conditions.
Please note that oregano oil must be diluted with a carrier oil before applying it to your scalp.
Also Read: Five Reasons Why Oiling Is Good For Hair, Choosing Oil, Dos And Don’ts
Ways to use
There are several ways to use Oregano oil. Here are some of the most prominent ways to begin using this oil in your routine:
Topically:
One can dilute oregano oil with carrier oils like coconut oil, jojoba oil, or olive oil and apply it to the skin to treat acne, skin infections, and other skin conditions. Do not use the oil without diluting it with your preferred carrier oil, even for spot treatments.
Aromatically:
Oregano oil can be diffused with a diffuser or added to a warm bath to enhance respiratory function and rejuvenate the mind and body. This can lead to overall health improvement, including skin health.
Internally:
Taking small amounts of oregano oil orally can help strengthen the immune system and combat harmful microorganisms in the body. Oral ingestion is advised along with topical use when struggling with stubborn skin infections like toenail fungus.
However, it is crucial to consume oregano oil with water and avoid consuming it for an extended period to prevent any issues.
Who must not use
When Oregano oil is used correctly, it typically poses no significant health risks to the user. However, improper use of the oil can have adverse effects on one’s health.
While the oil may offer benefits for the skin, certain individuals should refrain from using it. These groups include pregnant women, children, and those with sensitive skin.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about using oregano oil on the skin
i) How often can you use oregano oil to massage your face?
Oregano oil is typically available in concentrated form and, therefore, must never be used on the face without mixing it with carrier oil.
Using oregano oil on your face may delay ageing signs such as fine lines and wrinkles.
You may use oregano oil to massage your face twice or thrice a week. Mix 2-3 drops of oregano oil with a spoonful of coconut oil or jojoba oil and gently massage your face. Leave it for 30 minutes and wash with a mild cleanser.
ii) How to use oregano oil for acne?
Since oregano oil has antibacterial properties, it may aid in clearing acne caused by certain types of bacteria.
Mix 7-10 drops of oregano oil with a tablespoon of coconut oil. Dab the diluted oil on the acne and acne scars using a cotton swab. Do this twice a day initially. With the results, you may reduce the application to once a day.
iii) How can oregano oil reduce inflammation due to skin conditions such as rosacea, psoriasis, acne, etc.?
Oregano oil possesses anti-inflammatory properties, and you may use it to reduce inflammation, itchiness and irritation on the skin on any part of your body.
Dilute 7-10 drops of oregano oil with a tablespoonful of coconut oil. Gently dab on the inflamed areas of the skin and leave it on. Apply twice daily until the inflammation improves.
iv) How to use oregano oil to treat skin infections caused by microbes like bacteria and fungi?
Carvacrol in oregano oil has strong antimicrobial properties. Hence, the oil can effectively treat skin infections like toenail fungus and even cold sores.
Mix one drop of oregano oil with four drops of carrier oil like coconut or jojoba oil. Dab on the infected area with a cotton swab. Do not use your fingers. Apply twice daily until the infection starts to heal. Later you can apply once a day.
If you use it for toenail fungus, you may dab undiluted oregano oil on the affected nail using a cotton swab. Apply topically on the nail twice daily. Toenail fungus that has been for a long time usually takes several days before starting to heal. Consider taking oral oregano oil to speed up healing. In this case, take the advice of an aromatherapist for the correct dosage.
The bottom line
Oregano, a fragrant herb often used in cooking, can also offer numerous benefits for your skin and scalp. When applied topically with carrier oil, Oregano oil has been found to improve various skin conditions positively and delay skin ageing.
Oregano oil can help improve acne by reducing sebum production and alleviating skin inflammation. It can also clear blemishes, fight skin infections, and improve scalp health. Using it in a diffuser can enhance lung function and rejuvenate the mind and body. Oral ingestion may help combat persistent skin infections caused by microbes; however, this should be done under expert guidance.
Nevertheless, it’s crucial to use oregano oil with caution, as it is a potent essential oil that must be diluted before use. Pregnant women and children should avoid using it, and people with sensitive skin or those taking certain medications should use it carefully and consult a healthcare professional before use.
