Yes, it does. Here’s why:
Oregano oil is a potent essential oil that contains an antibacterial compound called carvacrol, which some studies have shown to be as effectiveas standard antibiotics in fighting certain kinds of infections — including those caused by drug-resistant bacteria. A 2014 study, published in the Journal of Applied Microbiology, found medicinal-grade oregano oil effectively fends off murine norovirus in humans. (Some poultry farmers have even begun using oregano oil in place of standard antibiotics to reduce antibiotic resistance in poultry.)
Yet just because oregano oil is a plant compound doesn’t mean you can take it casually. Its potency is a good reason to use it — but cautiously, says Mindy Green, RA, RH, an essential-oils expert in Boulder, Colo.
Extended or high-dose use can stress the liver, which metabolizes essential-oil constituents, including carvacrol. And some healthcare providers warn that oregano oil could reduce microbial diversity in the gut.
What Dose of Oil of Oregano Should I Take?
Green recommends taking the oil in capsules because of its strong flavor, but you can also take the oil directly by mixing two drops in a teaspoon of carrier oil, such as olive oil. Oregano oil can irritate mucous membranes of the throat, esophagus, and stomach, so it should never be taken with just water; a carrier oil helps mitigate these effects. She suggests just 50 to 80 milligrams (two or three drops) per dose. Stick to formulas with at least 80 percent carvacrol, and take only those that are clearly labeled for medicinal use.
Green also cautions against using oregano oil for longer than one week. Take one dose three times a day for the first two days, she suggests. Then use one capsule twice a day. If you get no relief from your symptoms after seven days, discontinue its use and find another remedy.
“Some people take oregano oil daily for prevention, but I would never recommend that,” says Green. Instead, she suggests relying on immune-building herbal teas, such as echinacea and thyme, daily throughout the cold and flu season.
This originally, which appeared as “Is oregano oil really helpful for fighting colds? And is it possible to take too much?” in the April 2018 print issue of Experience Life, has been updated.
As an enthusiast and expert in the field of essential oils and herbal remedies, my comprehensive understanding of the subject allows me to delve into the intricacies of oregano oil and its potential health benefits. The article you provided touches upon several key concepts related to oregano oil, including its antibacterial properties, the presence of carvacrol, potential applications, dosage recommendations, and associated risks.
1. Antibacterial Properties and Carvacrol: Oregano oil is highlighted for its potency due to the presence of carvacrol, an antibacterial compound. Carvacrol has been the subject of scientific studies, with evidence suggesting its effectiveness in combating certain infections, particularly those caused by drug-resistant bacteria. The article references a 2014 study published in the Journal of Applied Microbiology, emphasizing the role of medicinal-grade oregano oil in fending off murine norovirus in humans.
2. Antibiotic Replacement in Poultry Farming: The article mentions that some poultry farmers are adopting oregano oil as a substitute for standard antibiotics. This shift is driven by the desire to reduce antibiotic resistance in poultry, showcasing the practical applications of oregano oil beyond individual health.
3. Cautions and Considerations: Despite its potential benefits, the article underscores the need for caution in using oregano oil. Mindy Green, identified as an essential-oils expert, provides insights into potential risks. Extended or high-dose use is cautioned due to the stress it may pose on the liver, which metabolizes essential-oil constituents, including carvacrol. Additionally, concerns about the reduction of microbial diversity in the gut are raised by some healthcare providers.
4. Dosage Recommendations: Mindy Green recommends specific dosage guidelines for oregano oil. The strong flavor of the oil leads her to suggest taking it in capsules, although direct consumption with a carrier oil is also an option. The recommended dosage is 50 to 80 milligrams (two or three drops) per dose. It is crucial to choose formulas with at least 80 percent carvacrol and ensure clear labeling for medicinal use.
5. Usage Duration and Alternatives: Green advises against prolonged use of oregano oil, suggesting a one-week limit. The initial dosage strategy involves one dose three times a day for the first two days, followed by one capsule twice a day. If symptoms persist after seven days, discontinuation is advised. Green also recommends exploring alternative preventive measures, such as immune-building herbal teas like echinacea and thyme, rather than daily use of oregano oil for prevention.
In conclusion, the article provides a nuanced perspective on the use of oregano oil, combining scientific findings with practical recommendations and cautions from an expert in the field. This holistic approach contributes to a well-rounded understanding of the potential benefits and risks associated with incorporating oregano oil into one's health regimen.
