Due to its omega-3 fatty acid content, oregano oil has been helpful for people who suffer from depression, anxiety and other mood-related conditions.

© Alexstar | Dreamstime.com

In a previous article, we discussed using oregano oil to improve the health of your heart. But, the benefits of oregano oil are not limited to cardiovascular health. The simple fact is that you can spend less than you would on a typical lunch for an entire month’s supply of oregano oil and receive an abundance of health perks.

Reducing Anxiety and Depression Symptoms

Due to its omega-3 fatty acid content, oregano oil has been helpful for people who suffer from depression, anxiety and other mood-related conditions. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that depressed patients who eat omega 3-rich fish two to three times a week have a decrease in depression symptoms.[1] However, most people need to use supplements (rather than consuming large amounts of fish) in order to get the quantity and purity of omega-3’s needed. Since many people complain of a “fishy” aftertaste with the use of fish oil, taking oregano oil daily is a great alternative for obtaining the healthy omega-3 fatty acids.

Anti-inflammatory & Pain Management

Many times, depression symptoms are often a secondary result of chronic pain. That is, people can develop feelings of anxiety, hopelessness and despair when they are unable to achieve adequate pain relief from a long-term ailment. Research shows oregano oil is a potent anti-inflammatory and pain reliever. Studies indicate the carvacrol content is responsible for its analgesic activity. You can actually rub oregano oil on painful joints and muscles for deep relief of inflammation. The oil penetrates the skin and makes contact with the joints. Due to this capability, it is an effective natural remedy for arthritic conditions, sports-related injuries and even neck or back pain. For prolonged pain relief and to help decrease inflammation, you can take oregano capsules or add a few drops of the essential oil in a beverage.

Stabilize Blood Sugar Levels

In addition to long-term pain, fluctuations in blood sugar levels are a known contributor to mood alterations, including hyperactivity, anxiety and other depression symptoms. Oregano has been shown to help normalize blood sugar levels and aid in energy production. A Moroccan study found that oregano oil extract demonstrated a hypoglycemic effect in rats with induced diabetes. This effect was independent of insulin and occurred after a single dose as well as with repeated daily dosing.[2]

Balancing Hormones

Studies indicate that oregano intake may help increase the production of the hormone progesterone, according to research. Scientists discovered that oregano is one of the main herbs that binds to intracellular receptors for progesterone and increases its release. Progesterone plays a role in several functions in the body, from promoting normal sleep patterns to normalizing blood sugar levels and even stimulating new bone formation, thereby preventing osteoporosis.[3]

Additional Oregano Oil Benefits

Besides the many benefits mentioned above, oregano oil’s most promising use may be its ability to fight infection due to its potent antimicrobial properties. Click here to read our next article and discover how oregano oil can be used as your number one home remedy.

*If you are suffering from depression, pain, or are taking prescription medications, seek the advice of your doctor or an integrative physician regarding the use of supplements or essential oils.