Is Oregano oil safe for kids?
While Oregano oil may be safe for adults, parents should always check with their healthcare provider before using it on their children.
We know that Oregano oil supports immune function in adults by assisting in targeting foreign microbes but is it safe for children?
History of Oregano Oil
Oil of Oregano is a herbal product that has been used since Biblical times. In Aristotle’s day, Greek herbalists used oregano for medicinal purposes and as an antidote, and it was also used by herbalists and physicians in ancient Egypt.
What is Oregano?
Oregano is an aromatic perennial herb that can grow to about two feet in height. It is native to the Mediterranean region but is cultivated worldwide. In addition to European oregano, there are several types of related species, including Greek/Turkish oregano (Origanum onites) and Mexican oregano (Lippia graveolens, Lippa palmeri). These should not be considered as substitutes for true oregano, though they may have similar properties. The leaves as well as the volatile oil of these various species are used medicinally but must be carefully distinguished as they are quite different. Oregano is an ancient culinary herb whose name means “joy-of-the-mountain” and it has been widely used in Europe as a spice in food and treasured for its value as an herbal supplement.
What is Oregano oil?
This slightly minty, slightly spicy herb is actually a member of the mint family. When burned, its oil gives off a pleasant, calming aroma. In the kitchen, it’s commonly used to add zest to Italian foods. And from a health perspective, it helps support immune function by naturally assisting the body in targeting foreign microbes. Oregano Oil contains carvacrol, the most widely researched active ingredient in oregano. Oregano Oil is derived from origanum vulgare, which is grown in the Mediterranean. carvacrol, one of the active components naturally occurring in Oregano. Because Oregano is highly concentrated it should never be used undiluted, unless in external applications. Even then, please exercise caution. Even though this is a natural product, its concentration is much higher than that found naturally.
Uses for Oregano oil
Oil of Oregano is a potent antiseptic, meaning it kills germs. Research proves that it is highly effective for killing a wide range of fungi, yeast, and bacteria as well as parasites and viruses. In addition to its anti-fungal action, oregano oil has a strong anti-microbial action against a wide number of bacteria, including Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Salmonella enterica, and Staphylococcus aureus.
How do you use Oregano oil?
The oil (50% or greater dilution) may be applied topically twice a day to areas affected by athlete’s foot or other fungal infections. The affected area should be covered by the oil with each application.
Is Oregano oil safe for children?
The safety of this oil when it comes to children has not been well studied and should be used with caution or after consulting with a healthcare professional. It is generally agreed that oil of oregano should not be used by pregnant or nursing mothers, and most agree it should not be used on young infants
