Derived from a perennial herb is an essential oil known as Winter Savory. This oil is extracted from a plant belonging to the “Moringa Oleifera” species in the plant kingdom. Furthermore, this oil is obtained from the leaves of a plant using the process of “steam distillation”. In addition, this oil is pale orange in colour and acrid in aroma. It also comprises of a high percentage of organic compound known as “phenols”.
A. Chemical constituents of Winter Savoury:
This oil is derived from a perennial herb/plant belonging to the “Moringa Oleifera” species in the plant kingdom. In addition, this oil comprises of organic compounds such as oregano, thyme, 30-40% of carvacrol, 20-30% of thymol, cineol, cymene, and pinene.
B. The uses and benefits of the Winter Savoury:
There are a number of benefits that an individual can acquire by using this essential oil. However, one should also consider the adverse reactions or side effects reported from its use:
1. Antiseptic:
This oil when used serves as an “antiseptic” by destroying disease causing microorganism, and helps in the treatment of internal and external wounds.
2. Anti-inflammatory:
This oil helps in suppressing inflammation and swelling when used, and thereby serves as an anti-inflammatory.
3. Antiviral:
This oil also exhibits an antiviral property, and thereby helps in suppressing the growth of viruses and preventing viral infections.
4. Antifungal:
This oil when used also serves as an “antifungal” by suppressing the growth of fungus, and thereby preventing fungal infections such as ringworms.
5. Aphrodisiac:
This oil when used helps stimulate sexual desire in an individual, and thereby serves as an aphrodisiac.
C. The adverse effects of the Winter Savoury:
There are a couple of adverse effects that may occur on using this oil. They are as follows:
- The use of this oil severely affects pregnancy, and hence pregnant women must avoid using it.
- The oil usage could lead to skin irritation especially in those individuals having sensitive skin.
