From the Guidelines
Oil of oregano is not recommended for use in treating medical conditions due to limited scientific evidence supporting its health claims, and its potential to cause side effects and interact with medications 1.
General Information
Oil of oregano is a natural extract from oregano plants, primarily containing carvacrol and thymol, which have antimicrobial properties. It's commonly used as a supplement for immune support, respiratory issues, and digestive problems.
Dosage and Administration
For general immune support, a typical dose is 3-4 drops of oil of oregano mixed with water or juice, taken 2-3 times daily for no more than 2 weeks at a time. For acute conditions, some practitioners recommend 4-6 drops up to 4 times daily for 7-10 days.
Safety and Efficacy
The oil should be diluted as it can irritate mucous membranes and the digestive tract when taken undiluted. While some research suggests antimicrobial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory benefits, scientific evidence for many health claims remains limited. Side effects may include digestive upset, allergic reactions (especially in people allergic to plants in the Lamiaceae family), and it may interact with blood-thinning medications. Pregnant women should avoid oil of oregano as it may stimulate uterine contractions.
Quality and Purity
Always purchase from reputable sources to ensure quality and purity. Some studies have investigated the use of alternative lipid emulsions, such as fish oil, in critically ill patients, and found potential benefits in reducing mortality and duration of ventilation 1. However, the use of oil of oregano is not supported by high-quality evidence, and its potential benefits and risks should be carefully considered before use. In contrast, there is high-quality evidence to support the use of topical azelaic acid, topical ivermectin, brimonidine, doxycycline, and isotretinoin as effective treatments for patients with systemic rosacea 1. Additionally, dietary supplementation with essential fatty acids, such as omega-3 fatty acids, may have potential benefits in managing blepharitis and dry eye disease, although more studies are needed to clearly define their role 1. In summary, while oil of oregano may have some potential benefits, its use is not supported by high-quality evidence, and its potential risks and interactions should be carefully considered before use. It is recommended to prioritize evidence-based treatments and consult with a healthcare professional before using oil of oregano or any other supplement.
From the Research
Properties and Composition of Oil of Oregano
- The oil of oregano is composed of various compounds, including carvacrol, limonene, gamma-cariofilene, rho-cymenene, canfor, linalol, alpha-pinene, and thymol 2.
- The composition of oregano oil depends on the species, climate, altitude, time of recollection, and stage of growth 2.
- The main component of oregano essential oil is carvacrol, which ranges from 76.64-85.70% in different samples 3.
Antimicrobial Activity of Oil of Oregano
- Oregano essential oil has been shown to have antimicrobial activity against various microorganisms, including Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, and Candida species 4, 5, 3.
- The oil has been found to inhibit the growth of biofilms formed by Candida spp. and reduce the formation of new biofilms 4.
- Oregano essential oil has also been shown to be effective against dual biofilms of Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus 4.
Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Oil of Oregano
- Oregano essential oil has been found to have antioxidant activity, with high antioxidant capacity ranging from 71.42-80.44% 3.
- The oil has also been reported to have anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and cancer suppressor properties, making it of potential interest to the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries 6.
Potential Health Benefits of Oil of Oregano
- The antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of oregano essential oil make it a potential alternative to synthetic additives in foods and a means to prevent antibiotic-resistant strain development 5, 3.
- The oil may also have potential health benefits, including the prevention and treatment of certain chronic ailments, such as cancer, due to its antimutagenic and anticarcinogenic effects 2.