During pregnancy, it is advised to take a holistic approach towards health care and the use of traditional medicines is avoided as much as possible. This involves the use of herbs in treating infections in the body. There are several herbs that are marked safe during pregnancy such as oregano. It has been used to treat multiple ailments in the body since ancient times. The oil of oregano is also highly beneficial. If you are keen on learning the benefits of oregano oil in pregnancy, read on to know the good as well as the risk involved in using the same.
Benefits of Oregano During Pregnancy:
Oregano is derived from a plant and is used widely for its culinary and medicinal properties. oregano oil is derived from the leaves and is loaded with beneficial properties. It is used therapeutically in multiple ways topically, aromatically and even orally. Oregano oil during pregnancy can work wonders for your health as well as your precious little one growing inside you. Here’s how:
1. Improves Immunity:
Oregano is an extremely rich source of antioxidants, which in turn help to boost immunity during pregnancy. It helps in reducing the damaging effects of free radicals and helps the body to fight off any foreign infections. The use of oregano oil during pregnancy for preventing macular degeneration, nervous disorders, ageing and even cancer is very widespread.
2. Fights Fungal and Bacterial Infections:
Oregano is packed with antifungal and antibacterial properties. That help in shielding you and your baby against various infections throughout the pregnancy period. It also safeguards from E.coli infections and diseases such as urinary tract infections and diarrhoea. The use of oil oregano while pregnant is also beneficial in fighting bacterial infections like Staphylococcus aureus, S. Typhimurium and Salmonella enteritidis to name a few.
3. Cures Respiratory Ailments:
Respiratory ailments like the build-up of phlegm and mucus in the upper respiratory tract can easily be cured by the use of oil oregano in pregnancy. oregano is known to be a useful and natural remedy for preventing and treating symptoms of cough and cold. Oil of oregano can even be applied topically as a soothing balm to get relief from chest congestion or sore throat.
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4. Provides Anti-Inflammatory Properties:
Oregano possesses a compound, beta-caryophyllin (E-BCP) that is excellent in treating internal as well as external inflammation in your body. While you are expecting you can also apply the oil of oregano topically to reduce any inflammation or irritation caused due to arthritis or injury. Furthermore using oregano during pregnancy also helps to relieve discomforts or aches that are common during this time.
Risks Associated:
You have now learned about the goodness of using oregano during pregnancy. however, there are also some side-effects caused that you must equally be aware of:
- Can Trigger Allergies: The use of oregano during pregnancy can trigger some form of allergic reaction in the expectant mother.
- Lowers Blood Sugar Level: Oregano in pregnancy can lower sugar levels in the blood and, therefore, needs to be used cautiously.
- Can Cause Miscarriage: In some cases, the use of oregano also increases the risk of miscarriage.
Oregano is a safe herb that can be used during pregnancy. But in small amounts. Its use in culinary as well as therapeutic ways does not pose any serious implications for the expectant mother and her growing baby. Yet it is always advisable to consult your doctor about its use during pregnancy.
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