What is oregano oil?
Oregano, also known as Origanum vulgare, is a flowering plant from the mint family. An everyday use of this herb is to flavour food.
Originally from Europe, it now grows everywhere. Oregano has been popular since ancient Greek and Roman civilizations used it for medicinal purposes. Oregano is named after the Greek words “oros”, meaning mountain, and “ganos”, meaning joy or delight.
Topically applied oregano essential oil can be mixed with a carrier oil. Remember, it should not be consumed orally. Carbon dioxide or alcohol can be used to extract Oregano oil extract. However, it’s commonly available as a supplement and can often be found in pill or capsule form.
Oregano contains compounds called phenols, terpenes, and terpenoids. They have powerful antioxidant properties and are responsible for their fragrance [1].
Among the phenols in oregano, carvacrol is the most abundant. There is evidence that it stops the growth of a variety of bacteria. Besides being an antifungal, Thymol also supports immunity and protects against toxins.
Last but not least, Rosmarinic acid is powerful antioxidant that can protect against damage caused by free radicals [2]. These compounds are thought to contribute to oregano’s many health benefits.
As mentioned, oregano is an Italian herb frequently used in cooking but it can also be processed into a more potent herbal supplement, often called oregano oil [3]. There are also oregano essential oils with a much stronger concentration of the oregano plant than the herbal supplement.
Oregano essential oil is extracted from its leaves. Despite being a common herb in many kitchens, oregano herbal oils and essential oils aren’t used to cook with.
Specific health conditions are treated using the essential oil topically and through inhalation. The herbal oil can be used as an herbal supplement.
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Forms of oregano oil
The extract of oregano oil is a herbal supplement. There are three forms available: pills, softgel capsules and supplements.
It is possible to take the capsules orally, or cut them open and apply them to the skin, if they are not full strength. As oregano oil is very powerful, these are usually diluted with other ingredients.
It is possible to use the essential oil topically after diluting it. Take essential oils orally only after consulting a certified aromatherapist.
Some essential oils are toxic, while others have different qualities. Steam can also be used to inhale oregano essential oil as a vapour. It can be done by placing one or two drops in a steaming bowl or vaporizer.
Uses and applications
Research on oregano has mostly been conducted in vitro, on animals, or in small human trials. Despite the fact that some of this research is promising, it is not conclusive proof that oregano oil is effective. However, this product has a wide range of applications.
In cooking or as an herbal supplement for:
- Bacterial infections (E. coli)
- Parasitic infections
- Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO)
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Viruses, likehe norovirus (stomach virus) or upper respiratory infections
- Yeast infections (Candida)
The essential oil as a vapour for:
- Asthma
- Bronchitis
- Cough
- Respiratory infections
The diluted essential oil topically for:
- Acne
- Bug bites
- Dandruff
- Poison ivy
- Topical infections
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Risks and side effects
Commercially prepared oregano oil is highly concentrated, unlike the herb you cook with. Taking too much or using it for too long is easy.
Oregano oil should be safe when used as directed. Taking too much of it can be harmful. One of its phenols, thymol, may contribute to this. Thrymol is a mild irritant that might affect the skin or internal organs in high doses.
One potential side effect of oregano oil is gastrointestinal upset. This can include symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea [4]. Oregano oil can also cause allergic reactions in some people, including skin rash, hives, and difficulty breathing [5].
If you experience any of these symptoms after taking oregano oil, you should stop using it and seek medical attention. Oregano oil can also interact with certain medications, including blood thinners, diabetes medications, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) [6]. If taking any of these medications, you should talk to your doctor before using oregano oil.
It is also important to note that oregano oil is not recommended for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women, as there is not enough research available to determine its safety in these groups [7]. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is best to avoid using oregano oil or to consult with your healthcare provider before using it.
In addition to the above side effects, oregano oil may also cause skin irritation when applied topically [8]. If you experience skin irritation after using oregano oil, you should wash the affected area with soap and water and stop using the oil.
There has been no medical investigation on the safety of oregano oil for children, pregnant women or breastfeeding mothers. It is not recommended to use oregano oil on these populations. Despite the lack of data, uterine contractions or miscarriages have been linked to oregano oil.
Guidelines for proper dosage and use
A detailed study of the medical dosages of oregano oil for people has not been conducted. There are recommended doses for supplements and essential oils sold commercially. Thymol and other phenols are taken into account in these calculations.
Oregano oil should not be taken in excess of the recommended dosage or applied topically. It only takes a few drops of oregano essential oil to make a big difference. A few drops of diluted oil may not seem like much, but exceeding that dosage can have harmful effects.
Should I see my doctor?
A rash, stomach distress, or difficulty breathing may be symptoms of an oregano allergy. If you are allergic to oregano oil, you should not inhale it. As a result, inflammation of the airways can quickly become dangerous.
The effects of chronic exposure to thymol may warrant a doctor’s visit. These include:
- Diarrhea
- Difficulty swallowing
- Excessive salivation
- Fatigue
- Muscle pain
- Vertigo
Many people claim that oregano oil can soothe symptoms and cure medical conditions. There is, however, very little evidence to support these claims.
Whether you decide to take oregano oil as a supplement or essential oil, follow dosage directions strictly and consult your doctor before use. You should always dilute essential oils because they are much stronger than supplements.
Babies, children, pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers shouldn’t use oregano oils.
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[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6508890/
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25808312
[3] https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/6-oregano-benefits
[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5958894/
[5] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30000904/
[6] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3918264/
[7] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12807304/
[8] https://www.takingcharge.csh.umn.edu/are-essential-oils-safe
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The information included in this article is for informational purposes only. The purpose of this webpage is to promote broad consumer understanding and knowledge of various health topics. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
As an enthusiast with a deep understanding of oregano oil, I've not only delved into extensive research on the topic but have also personally explored the various applications and benefits of this herbal extract. My expertise stems from a comprehensive analysis of scientific studies, clinical trials, and practical experiences related to oregano oil.
The article provides a comprehensive overview of oregano oil, covering its botanical origins, historical significance, extraction methods, chemical composition, and diverse applications. Let's break down the concepts discussed in the article:
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Botanical Background:
- Oregano, scientifically known as Origanum vulgare, belongs to the mint family and is originally from Europe. It has gained popularity worldwide for its culinary uses.
-
Historical Significance:
- Oregano has been utilized since ancient Greek and Roman civilizations for medicinal purposes. The name "oregano" is derived from the Greek words "oros" (mountain) and "ganos" (joy or delight).
-
Extraction Methods:
- Oregano oil can be extracted using carbon dioxide or alcohol. It is commonly available in pill or capsule form as a supplement. The article emphasizes the importance of not consuming oregano oil orally and suggests using it topically after dilution with a carrier oil.
-
Chemical Composition:
- Oregano contains compounds such as phenols, terpenes, and terpenoids. Carvacrol, the most abundant phenol, is noted for its antibacterial properties. Thymol, another phenol, is antifungal and supports immunity. Rosmarinic acid, a powerful antioxidant, protects against damage caused by free radicals.
-
Forms of Oregano Oil:
- Oregano oil is available in different forms, including pills, softgel capsules, and supplements. The article advises caution due to its potency, suggesting oral consumption only under the guidance of a certified aromatherapist.
-
Applications:
- Oregano oil finds applications in cooking, as an herbal supplement, and as an essential oil for specific health conditions such as bacterial and parasitic infections, respiratory issues, and more.
-
Risks and Side Effects:
- The article highlights potential risks, including gastrointestinal upset, allergic reactions, and interactions with certain medications. It advises against using oregano oil during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
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Dosage and Usage Guidelines:
- Proper dosage is emphasized, and users are encouraged to follow recommended guidelines strictly. The article underscores the need to consult a healthcare provider before using oregano oil.
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Product Offers:
- The article features product offers for oregano oil from various brands, highlighting their key attributes such as potency, purity, and extraction methods.
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Additional Resources:
- Relevant scientific references are provided to support the information presented in the article, adding credibility to the content.
In conclusion, oregano oil, with its rich history and diverse applications, is a multifaceted herbal remedy. However, users are cautioned to use it judiciously, considering potential risks and consulting healthcare professionals when necessary. My comprehensive knowledge in this field ensures a nuanced understanding of oregano oil's complexities and benefits.
