Oregano Oil, Nature's Antibiotic

Dr. Rev. Isabel Sharkar

Dr. Isabel Sharkar, NMD, is co-founder of Indigo Integrative Health Clinic in Washington, D.C., a thriving clinic that has been serving the local community in health restoration and body optimization for over a decade. Being in constant pursuit for truth and healing Dr. Isabel graduated in 2011 from Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine as a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine.

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By Caroline Hoeffgen, COO, BCHC, JD | Reviewed by Dr. Isabel Sharkar, NMD | May 2026

Oregano oil, a member of the mint family, has become the traveler’s go-to for many different ailments. Oil of oregano is one of nature’s most powerful antibiotics! Time and time again, it proves to work its wonders. Oil of wild oregano has been shown to kill unwanted bacteria, fungus, yeast, parasites and viruses. A published laboratory study out of the United Kingdom found that oil of oregano showed effectiveness against 25 different bacteria, including MRSA. One drop per day can help to maintain a healthy immune function.

Oil of oregano is high in antioxidant activity and contains vitamins A, C and E, niacin, calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron, potassium, copper, boron and manganese. It may be useful in treatment for athlete’s foot, psoriasis, eczema, worms and protozoa, diarrhea, intestinal gas, sore throat, sinusitis, breathing difficulties, dandruff, diaper rash, insect bites, helps to reduce fever and relieve cramps. Oil of oregano is used as a powerful cleansing and purifying agent, provides immune-enhancing benefits, supports healthy digestion and respiratory function.

When you feel a cold coming on or sore throat, take a few drops and rub them on your swollen lymph glands several times throughout the day.  Additionally, dilute a few drops in water, gargle for one minute and swallow. If you have a toothache, place a few drops on a Q-tip, rub it around the affected tooth and bite down on it. For cavity prevention add a couple of drops onto your toothbrush with or without toothpaste.

Make sure your oil of oregano is wild crafted and either species Thymus capitatus or Origanum vulgare. Do not use if you are pregnant or sensitive to oregano. Oil of oregano is extremely potent so exercise caution when consuming and make sure it is diluted in carrier oil. You can purchase this brand oregano oil from Whole Foods.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is provided by Indigo Integrative Health Clinic for educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, a diagnosis, or a treatment recommendation, and does not establish a provider-patient relationship. Individual health conditions vary — information presented here may not apply to your specific situation. Always consult a qualified, licensed healthcare provider before making decisions about your health, medications, supplements, or treatment plan.

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