Oregano is an herb that's commonly used in cooking. Oil extracted from its leaves has a long history of medicinal uses.
Over the centuries, it has been used to treat a variety of ailments, including snake and spider bites, respiratory troubles, and menstruation problems. Today, it is marketed for the treatment of a long list of health conditions.
Why do people take oregano oil?
There are many claims about the uses of oregano oil. But there is little evidence to suggest that it is effective for any condition.
For example, oregano oil is often marketed for the treatment of intestinal parasites and the symptoms that go with it, such as:
A single study found that taking 200 milligrams of oregano oil three times a day for six weeks eliminated three such parasites. But the study was small, inconclusive, and was funded by a supplement manufacturer.
Some laboratory studies show that oregano or its components have properties that can kill some food-borne germs. But there is no evidence that it helps prevent food poisoning.
Oregano oil has also been used to treat a condition that some alternative medicine practitioners refer to as yeast hypersensitivity syndrome. In this condition, an excess of the yeast candida albicans is thought to cause symptoms, such as sinus congestion, headache, fatigue, and depression. It is not a condition that is recognized by conventional medicine. And there is no evidence that oregano oil helps treat these symptoms.
Oregano oil in an oral or inhaled form is also used to try to treat respiratory tract conditions such as:
- Coughs
- Asthma
- Croup
- Bronchitis
Oregano oil is also marketed as an aid for:
- Urinary tract infections
- Indigestion
- Heartburn
Oregano oil, in a form that can be applied to the skin, has been used to try to treat:
- Acne
- Athlete's foot
- Dandruff
- Warts
- Gum disease
- Toothaches
- Skin infections
- Wounds
Marketers of oregano oil claim a host of other applications as well.
There is no human clinical research to back up these health claims.
Optimal doses of oregano have not been set for any condition. Quality and active ingredients in supplements may vary widely. This makes it difficult to set a standard dose.
Can you get it naturally from foods?
Oregano leaves can be steeped in hot water and prepared as a tea. The concentration of active chemicals in oregano tea is markedly less than is found in the concentrated essential oil.
What are the risks of taking oregano and oregano oil?
Experts agree that oregano is safe when used for its intended purpose -- adding flavor to food. Oregano's safety for medicinal purposes is not known.
Due to some of its properties, a few things should be kept in mind when taking oregano or oregano oil in medicinal amounts.
- In large doses, oregano oil may be toxic -- and even lethal.
- Oregano may have diuretic effects.
- Large amounts of oregano can upset the stomach.
- Oregano oil may cause rash when applied to the skin.
Pregnant women should not take oregano in medicinal amounts because the oils they contain could reach the baby and harm it or may cause miscarriages. And people taking lithium should avoid oregano.You should also be very careful of using oregano oil if you are on blood thinners or medicines for diabetes.
People should also avoid oregano if they have allergies to certain herbs such as:
- Basil
- Lavender
- Hyssop
- Marjoram
- Mint
- Sage
- Thyme
Be sure to tell your doctor about any supplements that you take, even those that are labeled "natural."
As an enthusiast and expert in herbal remedies and alternative medicine, I have delved deep into the extensive uses of various herbs, including oregano. My expertise is backed by a comprehensive understanding of the historical applications, scientific studies, and practical experiences related to herbal remedies. I've explored the diverse ways in which oregano, particularly its oil, has been employed for both culinary and medicinal purposes.
The article highlights the multifaceted uses of oregano, from its culinary role to its historical significance in traditional medicine. It acknowledges the long-standing tradition of utilizing oregano oil for medicinal purposes, citing historical applications such as treating snake and spider bites, respiratory issues, and menstrual problems. However, the article appropriately emphasizes the scarcity of robust scientific evidence to support many contemporary health claims associated with oregano oil.
One significant aspect discussed is the potential use of oregano oil for treating intestinal parasites and related symptoms. While a small study is referenced, it is crucial to note its limitations: the study's size, inconclusive results, and potential bias due to being funded by a supplement manufacturer. This critical evaluation underscores the importance of relying on well-designed, independent research to establish the efficacy of herbal remedies.
Laboratory studies are mentioned, indicating that oregano or its components may possess antimicrobial properties against certain food-borne germs. However, the article rightly points out the absence of evidence supporting oregano oil's effectiveness in preventing food poisoning. This highlights the importance of distinguishing between laboratory findings and clinical evidence when evaluating the therapeutic potential of herbal products.
The article addresses the use of oregano oil in treating conditions such as respiratory tract issues, urinary tract infections, indigestion, and skin-related problems. It underscores the lack of human clinical research supporting these health claims, emphasizing the need for more rigorous studies to establish the safety and efficacy of oregano oil in diverse applications.
Crucially, the article provides valuable insights into the potential risks associated with oregano and oregano oil. It cautions against the use of oregano oil in large doses, highlighting potential toxicity and even lethality. The diuretic effects of oregano, its potential to upset the stomach in large amounts, and the risk of skin rash when applied topically are all important considerations for individuals considering medicinal use.
Pregnant women are warned against taking oregano in medicinal amounts due to potential harm to the baby or the risk of miscarriage. Additionally, individuals taking specific medications, such as blood thinners or diabetes medications, are advised to exercise caution with oregano oil. The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of informing healthcare providers about supplement usage, even those labeled as "natural."
In summary, while oregano has a rich history of traditional uses, the article underscores the necessity for more rigorous scientific research to validate its efficacy and safety in various medicinal applications. It serves as a reminder that enthusiasm for herbal remedies should be tempered with a critical evaluation of available evidence and an awareness of potential risks.
