From the Guidelines
It is not safe to take oregano supplements before undergoing surgery, and they should be stopped at least two weeks before any scheduled surgery. Oregano supplements can increase the risk of bleeding during and after surgery because they have mild anticoagulant (blood-thinning) properties, similar to other herbal supplements like ginger and ginkgo 1. Although oregano is not explicitly mentioned in the provided evidence, its potential to interact with anesthesia medications and other drugs commonly used during surgical procedures, potentially causing complications, cannot be ignored.
Key Considerations
- The Society for Perioperative Assessment and Quality Improvement (SPAQI) recommends holding certain supplements for 2 weeks before surgery due to their potential to affect bleeding risk or interact with other medications 1.
- Some supplements, like fish oil/omega-3 fatty acid preparations, can be continued as they have not been shown to increase bleeding risk 1.
- It is essential to inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist about all supplements, herbs, and medications you are taking during your pre-operative consultation, as they may provide specific guidance based on your individual health situation and the type of surgery you're having.
Recommendations
- Stop taking oregano supplements at least two weeks before any scheduled surgery.
- Inform your healthcare provider about all supplements, herbs, and medications you are taking.
- Do not resume taking oregano supplements until you have received clearance from your healthcare provider after surgery. The provided evidence does not explicitly mention oregano, but based on the principles outlined in the SPAQI consensus statement, it is reasonable to exercise caution and avoid taking oregano supplements before surgery, prioritizing morbidity, mortality, and quality of life as the outcome 1.
From the Research
Oregano and Surgery
- The provided studies do not specifically address the safety of taking oregano supplements before undergoing surgery 2, 3, 4, 5.
- However, one study found that oregano extract ointment has potent antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, and it decreased bacterial contamination and subsequent infection on post-surgical wounds 6.
- Other studies suggest that herbal medications, including those with similar properties to oregano, can interact with anesthetic medications and increase the risk of perioperative bleeding, arrhythmias, hypotension, hypertension, sedation, confusion, seizures, coughing, bronchospasm, diuresis, and hepatic dysfunction 2, 3, 4, 5.
- The American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) and the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists (AANA) recommend stopping herbal medications 1-2 weeks before elective surgical procedures to avoid potential adverse drug interactions 2.
- It is essential for patients to disclose their use of herbal medications, including oregano supplements, to their physicians before surgery to anticipate potential adverse drug interactions 2, 3, 4, 5.