Wild oregano is known for having powerful antifungal properties, which makes oregano oil an ideal choice for beginning treatment for Candida. Oregano can act as an antifungal, but may also be used for its antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties.
How does Oregano Oil Work for Candida?
A study performed at Georgetown University Medical Center in 2001 revealed that .25 mg/ml of origanum oil could completely inhibit Candida albicans growth, and therefore applying origanum oil daily could be highly effective in preventing and treating candidiasis. Oregano oil contains thymol and carvacrol which are known antimicrobial agents, and research suggests that these chemicals will react to water in your blood stream to cause the Candida yeast to become dehydrated and die.
An additional study revealed that carvacrol was more effective than as many as 18 pharmaceutical drugs in managing microbial infection. Oregano oil is also able to manage fungal infections with fewer side effects than many antifungal items from the pharmacy because it is a natural product.
How to Use Oregano Oil for Candida
There are two ways to utilize oregano oil for managing a candidiasis infection. You can apply it topically to the affected skin or consume the oil orally. Both methods will be effective in assisting with the healing process.
Apply to the Affected Area
The potent ingredients of oregano oil can irritate the skin so you should not apply this oil directly to the skin, particularly in sensitive areas such as the genitals. This can cause an irritation or burning sensation on the affected area. Instead, dilute oregano oil with olive oil to help it soften the skin by mixing 3 drops of oregano oil in a tablespoon of olive oil. Add more olive oil if you find your skin still reacts negatively to the mixture.
Take Orally
- You can consume 3 drops of bottled oregano oil in water twice a day and work your way up to 6 drops of oil twice a day. Drink at least one glass of water for every 3 drops of oregano oil you consume to prevent burning the mouth.
- If you purchase a gel form of oregano oil you can consume it as part of your daily supplement routine. Start by taking one gel twice a day after eating, working your way up to two gel doses twice a day.
Cautions for Using Oregano Oil
Choose the Right Oregano Oil
Oreganum Vulgare or wild oregano is commonly used for medicinal purposes. This form of oregano is common in the Mediterranean and is known for offering maximum medicinal effectiveness. Seek out oregano products that do not contain alcohol and include at least 50 percent carvacrol, the active agent that provides oregano with its potent antifungal properties.
Not Suitable for Some People
Oregano oil is generally safe to use, but those with doubts should contact their doctor before using this product.
- Those with iron deficiencies should avoid oregano oil as it can temporarily impair your ability to absorb iron.
- Those that are pregnant should not use oregano oil as it can increase blood flow to the uterus, causing the lining around the fetus to weaken.
- Some patients may be mildly allergic to oregano oil and may develop a skin rash when it is used.