BLACK : THE HEALTH MAGAZINE volume 1 | Page 15

Power of Oregano Natural medicine has been used for centuries in many cultures, especially African cultures. The power of utilizing what the earth provides has been a successful practice when done correctly. Here is an herb that has many healing properties that you’ll wonder what made you wait so long to try it. For you Italian lovers, you may or may not be aware of how special oregano really is. Oregano oil is derived from the leaves and flowers of oregano (Origanum vulgare), a hardy, bushy perennial herb, and a member of the mint (Lamiaceae) family. It's native to Europe, although it grows in many areas around the world. There are over 40 oregano species, but the most therapeutically beneficial is the oil produced from wild oregano or Origanum vulgare that's native to Mediterranean regions Beware, though, as many of the oregano oils sold in grocery stores are not made from this variety, and may have little to no therapeutic value. Opt only for oregano oil made from Origanum vulgare and Thymus capitatus, a variety that grows in Spain. Uses of Oregano Oil It’s highly recommend to add oregano oil to your arsenal of natural healing tools, as it has a wide range of uses. This herbal oil is a powerful antimicrobial that can help fight off infections. Oregano oil also has antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. Other ideal uses for oregano oil are: • Treating foot or nail fungus. Put a few teaspoons of oregano oil in a basin of water and soak your feet in it. You can also dilute the oil (mix a drop with a teaspoon of olive or coconut oil), and then apply it on your nails or skin. • Killing parasites and infections. Dilute the oil (mix a drop with a drop of a carrier oil such as coconut oil), and place