Molecules (Jun 2017)

Essential Oils of Oregano: Biological Activity beyond Their Antimicrobial Properties

  • Nayely Leyva-López,
  • Erick P. Gutiérrez-Grijalva,
  • Gabriela Vazquez-Olivo,
  • J. Basilio Heredia

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules22060989
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 22, no. 6
p. 989

Abstract

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Essential oils of oregano are widely recognized for their antimicrobial activity, as well as their antiviral and antifungal properties. Nevertheless, recent investigations have demonstrated that these compounds are also potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic and cancer suppressor agents. These properties of oregano essential oils are of potential interest to the food, cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries. The aim of this manuscript is to review the latest evidence regarding essential oils of oregano and their beneficial effects on health.

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