Arthritis Can Be Treated With Oregano Oil

Arthritis is the most common muscoloskeletal disease in the world. It is a chronic condition and the major reason for the disability in people over 55 years old. This medical condition is characterized by inflammation of the joints, joint pains, restricted joint movements and, in serious cases, disability.

There are several types of arthritis, the most common of which are rheumatoid arthritis, gouty arthritis and osteoarthritis. These conditions have different sets of symptoms but common to them all are inflammation and pain.

The usual treatment for arthritis involves a combination of medication, controlled diet, rest and specific joint exercises. Most of the medicinal interventions are based on relieving the pain and inflammation and limiting the disease because it is presumed that this condition is incurable. There are cases where braces and splints are used to increase the mobility of the patient. In serious cases, surgery is resorted to.

The typical medication given to the patient includes NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) to relieve the pain. Some of these drugs are injected directly into the joint to provide temporary pain relief and to induce joint movement. Heat or cold is also used depending on the needs of the patient. Different forms of therapy are also used such as hydro-therapy, mobilization therapy and relaxation therapy. In recent times, an organic substance was found to have positive effects in controlling and inhibiting the effects of arthritis. This is oregano oil, an essential oil derived from an organic source.

Oregano Oil and Arthritis
Oil of oregano has been used for centuries in the treatment of common ailments like colds, flu, fever, stomach problems and skin diseases. In our modern times, scientists, through many laboratory experiments and studies, have found that oregano oil has anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-parasitic and anti-viral properties. These scientists have proven that this essential oil can be used in a lot more ways than just treating common ailments. It can also be used to treat more serious conditions such as pneumonia, bronchitis and even cancer. Lately, researchers have discovered the ability of this essential oil to treat arthritis – because of its anti inflammatory and pain reducing properties.

This essential oil is more attractive and safer for arthritis treatment because, unlike conventional drugs, is ir produced from natural substances that do not leave adverse side effects. The source of oregano oil is the wild oregano plant, Origanum vulgare, which was used by the ancient Greeks for treating most of their common illnesses.

One of the components of oregano oil that is most beneficial to arthritic patients is carvacrol. The greatest source of this substance is the wild oregano plant. It comprises about 60% to 80% of oregano oil.

Why Oregano Oil Can Treat Arthritis Effectively
This beneficial oil can definitely give arthritic sufferers relief from pain and inflammation and improve their mobility. When applied to the affected joints, it will penetrate deeply into the skin and reach the joints, bringing immediate relief.

Controls Inflammation
Oregano oil is able to do this because of its carvacrol content. This particular substance can activate the HSP (heat shock proteins) through the regulatory T cells. The HSPs are our natural anti-inflammatory defense mechanism, while the T cells regulate our high stress tolerance. Laboratory experiments have proven the ability of carvacrol to increase the responses of the T cells against self-stress proteins and reduce inflammation.

Works As A Painkiller
Researchers have also found that oil of oregano is effective as a pain killer. This quality is attributed to the oil’s ability to penetrate deep into the skin down to the synoval fluid in the joints. Oregano oil’s ability to reduce pain even surpassed those of conventional pain killers.

Increases Mobility
By using this oil topically and taking it internally, it will result in more flexibility of the joints and muscles. Infection can also cause inflammation of the joints and the tendons, and administering the oil orally will fight the infection and thereby reduce the inflammation – resulting in more flexibility for both the muscles and joints.

Using Oregano Oil for Arthritis
If this oil is used both topically and internally, inflammation and pain will come under control faster.

1) Using it externally – Dilute 1 drop of concentrated oregano oil with 5 drops of virgin olive oil or coconut oil. Apply this mixture generously to the affected joints every time it is required. By using the oil in this way, you can also relieve yourself of cramps, sore muscles and other types of inflammatory conditions. Oil of oregano is a powerful substance, so you therefore have to test how your skin will react before applying it to larger areas of skin. Apply it first to a small test area.

2) Using it internally – Mix 2 drops of concentrated oregano oil in one glass of water or juice. Oregano oil is very strong and it may irritate your mucous membranes. To avoid this, you can take it in capsule form and follow the dosage recommended on the bottle. By drinking extra fluid, you can make this internal treatment more effective. However, it is not advised to use this method continuously for over 6 weeks. It has the potential of reducing your ability to absorb the oil. In case you need to continue, rest for about 2 weeks before you resume the treatment.

Considerations When Taking Oregano Oil
Oil of oregano contains very powerful chemical substances that can kill pathogens inside the body. In this regard, you have to seek the counsel of your physician before taking it for an extended period of time, especially if you are suffering from an existing medical condition. Not all brands of oregano oil are the same, therefore you need to consult your doctor about what brand is best for your condition. It is also not advised for pregnant women and nursing mothers to take this oil because it inhibits the body’s absorption of iron. This oil is very beneficial, but anything in excess is not good. This adage also applies to oregano oil.