Using Oil of Oregano to Treat Candida
October 7, 2009 by Dee
Filed under Candida Symptoms, Candida Treatment
If you’re one of the many people searching for effective ways to treat candida, you may have already discovered that traditional 
treatments often don’t work very well or for very long. Many people have found that natural treatments are more successful in the long run. One of the most successful natural remedies for candida is the use of oil of oregano.
What is Oil of Oregano
Many of us are familiar with dried oregano. We use it frequently when cooking, especially Italian dishes like pizza, spaghetti sauce and pasta dishes. This dehydrated spice should not, however, be confused with oil of oregano.
Oil of oregano is a completely natural substance that is extracted from the leaves of wild oregano plants that grow in mountainous regions. The plant is a member of the mint family.
There’s no need to worry about whether or not this is one of those home remedies that have not been tested. Oil of oregano has been used for an array of medicinal purposes since ancient times. Although early medical practitioners probably did not realize that two of the oil’s key compounds, thymol and carvacrol, have significant effects on harmful microorganisms and caused the success of their treatments, they did understand that oil of oregano provided many medicinal benefits.
Oil of oregano is a powerful anti-fungal agent, as well as being antibacterial, antiviral and anti-parasitic. It is effective for reducing pain and inflammation and fighting infection. It can be used both internally and topically.
Studies at both the University of Tennessee and Georgetown University have shown that in many cases oil of oregano is as effective as penicillin for fighting bacterial infections.
Since oil of oregano has anti-fungal properties, it is extremely effective at fighting many of the yeast infections caused by candida such as vaginal yeast infections, jock itch, diaper rash, athlete’s foot and other problems.
Oil of oregano kills candida albicans, the yeast fungus that is the root of the candida problem. It also destroys E. coli, staphylococcus and aspergillus mold.
How to Use Oil of Oregano
Oil of oregano is readily available. You’ll find it at nearly every health food store and it is sold by many online retailers as well. It can be purchased in liquid or capsule form and should have a carvacrol content of at least 70%. If you are going to use it internally, look for medicinal grade oil. Make sure it is true oil of oregano, not something called oil of oregano which is actually derived from thyme or marjorom. True oil of oregano is an amber or brown color, while the others are clear or reddish in color and have very little medicinal effects.
Oil of oregano is easy to use. You can substitute it for dried oregano in foods you’re preparing by adding just a few drops to salad dressings or pasta sauces. Your food will taste great and you’re treating candida while you’re eating.
If you’d like to use oil of oregano topically it should be diluted before it is applied to your skin. Add 5 to 10 drops of the oil to a teaspoon of coconut oil or extra virgin olive oil and rub it in to the affected area. Another benefit is that it not only cures yeast induced skin issues but it also soothes insect bites and gets rid of lice.
For treating internal candida it is recommended that you take 1-4 capsules (depending on the concentration) 1-4 times a day. If you are using liquid oil of oregano, add a few drops to a glass of coconut milk or water and just drink it, again, 1-4 times a day. Remember, oil of oregano is potent and will cause irritation if undiluted.
Oil of Oregano Side Effects
Side effects are rare but people who are allergic to other members of this plant family - mint, sage, thyme, basil, marjorom or hyssop - may not want to use it.
Oil of oregano may also reduce the absorption of iron, so when using it regularly you should also take an iron supplement two hours before or after your dose of oregano.
Oil of oregano is not recommended for pregnant women or nursing mothers.
People taking blood thinners should not use oil of oregano.
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