Oregano

What Is Oregano?

Oregano is a well-known herb, often associated with Mediterranean cuisine, where it adds a savoury punch to pizza, pasta, and a variety of dishes. However, its uses go far beyond the kitchen. With roots in ancient cultures, oregano has been cherished for its medicinal properties for thousands of years.

Oregano was traditionally used by the Greeks and Romans to treat various ailments, including digestive issues and respiratory conditions, long before it became a culinary staple.

Oregano belongs to the mint family (Lamiaceae) and contains potent compounds, notably carvacrol and thymol, which contribute to its impressive antimicrobial and antifungal abilities. These natural compounds have been shown to target harmful bacteria, viruses, and fungi, making oregano oil particularly valuable in treating conditions like Candida albicans overgrowth, a common gut imbalance.

Oregano oil’s ability to combat Candida is one of the reasons it’s a sought-after remedy in anti-Candida treatment protocols. Unlike some natural antifungals, Candida is less likely to develop resistance to oregano, offering a promising long-term solution for gut health (Eddins 2018).

The Potent Mediterranean Gut Microbial Balancer

Oregano is particularly well known through its potent, broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties. Beyond fighting infections, oregano is valued for its role in restoring gut microbiome balance, reducing inflammation, blood-sugar control, and even linked with improved mood and cognitive function.

We’ll talk more about the powerful and gut microbiome balancing affect of oregano on our human gut microbiome, one of the key reasons oregano extract was used in Yeastrix Cleanse.

Beyond its antifungal activity, oregano also supports gut microbial balance by selectively targeting harmful microbes while sparing beneficial bacteria (Jia et al., 2022), (Santhiravel et al., 2022). This makes oregano a potent ally for managing digestive discomfort and promoting overall gut function. Whether used in cooking, as a supplement, or in essential oil form, oregano provides a natural, versatile way to support your health, particularly your digestive system.

Today, oregano is increasingly valued for its holistic therapeutic effects, from its antioxidant properties to its role in supporting immune health. In particular, its ability to fight fungal infections like Candida while supporting digestive health makes it a key herb in maintaining a balanced, healthy gut. With its long-standing reputation as both a culinary and medicinal herb, oregano continues to be a valuable tool in natural health.

Fresh Herb, Oregano Essential Oil and Herbal Extracts

The main difference between fresh oregano, oregano herbal extracts, and oregano essential oil, lies in their composition, potency, and intended uses. While they are all derived from the same plant, their preparation methods and applications vary significantly.

Fresh Oregano
Oregano is easily grown in the garden, even in pots. It can be utilised in cooking and many dishes. It is often used fresh, but can be dried as well.
Oregano Herb Extract:
This is made by soaking oregano leaves in a liquid such as alcohol or glycerin to extract the plant’s beneficial compounds. It tends to contain a broader range of the plant’s natural components, including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Oregano herb extracts can be used for general wellness, culinary purposes, or as an adjunct to a gut cleansing supplement.
Oregano Essential Oil:
This is produced through steam distillation of the oregano plant, concentrating its volatile oils, primarily carvacrol and thymol. The essential oil is more potent and is used for therapeutic purposes, such as antibacterial, antifungal, or antiviral treatments. Due to its intensity, it must be diluted with a carrier oil before topical or internal use.

Key Highlights of Oregano’s Traditional and Modern Uses

Oregano has long been revered as both a culinary and medicinal powerhouse, celebrated for its broad range of traditional and modern uses. Historically, oregano has played a significant role in ancient herbal medicine, particularly in Greek and Roman cultures, where it symbolised health and joy (Singletary 2010).

Oregano extracts have long been used in traditional medicine, generally to treat respiratory disorders and infections such as colds, fever, cough, bronchitis, bacterial and fungal infections, parasites, and urinary tract infections (NIH 2023).

Modern research has validated many of oregano’s traditional applications, revealing its impressive antimicrobial, antifungal, and antioxidant properties. This versatile herb supports gut health, combats Candida overgrowth, and promotes respiratory and immune health through its active compounds, carvacrol and thymol, we’ll discuss both compounds shortly.

People use oregano in their diet as a dried and fresh herb in cooking and dishes, in supplements to assist in the treatment of conditions like SIBO and Candida overgrowth, and as an aromatic essential oil topically against nail fungus. The antioxidants thymol, carvacrol, limonene, terpinene, ocimene, and caryophyllene give oregano its flavour and scent (Leyva-López et al., 2017). Oregano’s array of antioxidants also contribute to the health benefits of this amazing plant.

Whether used in cooking, or for nail fungus, or as a dietary supplement, oregano continues to bridge the gap between natural medicine and modern science, offering many health benefits.

Here is a brief list of oregano’s key uses and studies that support its applications:

Antioxidant Benefits:
Contains antioxidants like rosmarinic acid and carvacrol, which protect against free radicals, aging, and chronic conditions such as cardiovascular diseases and certain cancers (Leyva-López et al., 2017).
Cancer-Fighting Potential:
Preliminary studies suggest carvacrol may slow the growth of certain cancer cells, demonstrating promise for future cancer therapies (Leyva-López et al., 2017).
Cholesterol Management:
Oregano oil has shown potential in improving cholesterol levels by reducing LDL and increasing HDL, contributing to heart health (Singletary 2010).
Digestive Health:
Oregano is traditionally used to alleviate bloating, indigestion, and nausea, thanks to its soothing and antimicrobial properties (NIH 2023).
Food Safety Applications:
Oregano’s antimicrobial properties are utilized in food preservation to control bacterial growth in meat and dairy products (Fournomiti et al., 2015).
Immune System Support:
Oregano enhances immunity by combating bacterial, viral, and fungal infections, particularly during cold and flu seasons (Leyva-López et al., 2017).
Inflammation Reduction:
Anti-inflammatory compounds in oregano help manage conditions like arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and chronic inflammation (Zhou et al., 2023).
Parasite Control:
Oregano’s has been found to have anti-parasitic effects against Blastocystis hominis and Entamoeba histolytica, alleviating symptoms like diarrhea and abdominal pain (Force et al., 2000).
Respiratory Health:
Its antimicrobial agents assist in the treatment of bronchitis, sinus infections, and pneumonia by targeting underlying pathogens (Leyva-López et al., 2017).
Skin Health:
When applied topically, oregano oil can help treat fungal and bacterial skin infections, including acne and athlete’s foot (Orchard et al., 2017).

Carvacrol and Thymol

Carvacrol

Carvacrol, a primary phenolic compound in oregano essential oil, is renowned for its antimicrobial properties and its ability to support gut health. Research shows that carvacrol disrupts the membranes of harmful bacteria such as E. coli, Salmonella, and Helicobacter pylori, preventing their replication and reducing bacterial load in the gut (Mączka et al., 2023).

This activity contributes to restoring balance in the gut microbiota, making it effective in conditions like small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) and other digestive disorders.

Beyond its antimicrobial effects, carvacrol supports a healthy inflammatory response in the gastrointestinal tract. Studies suggest it modulates gut inflammation by targeting pathways involved in oxidative stress and immune activation. For instance, it has been observed to reduce markers of gut inflammation which can disrupt gut health. Additionally, its antioxidant properties combat oxidative damage in intestinal cells, promoting overall gut barrier integrity and function (Mączka et al., 2023).

Carvacrol’s broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity and its ability to balance gut microbiota without disrupting beneficial bacteria make it an excellent natural tool for supporting gut health and combating dysbiosis

Thymol

Thymol and carvacrol are phenolic monoterpenes found in thyme, oregano and several other species of the Lamiaceae family. Thymol exibits potent antimicrobial and gut-balancing properties that make it especially beneficial for digestive health. Like carvacrol, thymol is also known for its ability to combat harmful bacteria and target pathogens like Helicobacter pylori and Salmonella, which are common culprits of gut infections (Meeran et al., 2017).

It acts by disrupting the bacterial cell membranes, leading to their destruction. Studies also suggest thymol’s ability to control fungal overgrowths, including Candida albicans, which is crucial for those dealing with gut imbalances.

In addition to its antimicrobial effects, thymol has demonstrated significant potential in supporting gut health by promoting digestion. It has been found to stimulate enzyme activity in the intestines, enhancing nutrient absorption and improving digestive function (Van Noten et al., 2020), (Hafsan et al., 2022), (Subramaniyam et al., 2020).

This action helps alleviate discomfort from conditions like bloating and indigestion (Almanea et al., 2019). Moreover, thymol possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that protect the gut lining, reducing the risk of gastrointestinal damage and supporting overall immune health (Liu et al., 2022).

Health Benefits Of Oregano

Person in a yellow sweater and jeans with a graphical insert showing bacteria, implying a focus on gut health or microbiology.

Oregano offers significant gut health benefits, thanks to its powerful antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. It helps maintain a balanced gut microbiome by targeting harmful bacteria, fungi, and parasites without disrupting the beneficial bacteria essential for digestion.

Oregano’s active compounds, particularly carvacrol and thymol, support the gut by reducing inflammation and protecting the gut lining from damage caused by pathogens. This makes it particularly useful in managing conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), leaky gut, and fungal overgrowth, such as Candida infections.

Additionally, oregano’s ability to stimulate bile production supports the digestion and absorption of fats, promoting overall digestive efficiency. By incorporating oregano into the diet or using oregano oil supplements, it’s possible to enhance gut health and promote a more resilient, balanced digestive system.

Let’s delve into more detail about some of the many gut health and some other benefits associated with oregano. Later on we’ll talk about how to incorporate oregano into your diet, and the best ways to take oregano supplements to boost your health.

Gut Health Benefits of Oregano

Oregano is a powerful herb known for its robust antimicrobial properties, particularly beneficial for gut health. Its active compounds, carvacrol and thymol, exhibit strong antibacterial, antifungal, and antiparasitic effects, making oregano an excellent ally for maintaining a healthy gut microbiome. Here’s an overview of oregano’s major gut health benefits:

Antibacterial Action:
Oregano oil has demonstrated significant antibacterial activity, particularly against antibiotic-resistant strains like Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus. Laboratory studies have shown that oregano oil can inhibit the growth of these dangerous bacteria, even in cases where they’ve developed resistance to other pharmaceutical drugs. This suggests that oregano could play an important role in combating multi-drug-resistant infections (Lu et al., 2018).
Numerous studies suggest that oil of oregano possesses antibacterial properties effective against a wide range of bacterial strains (Saeed et al., 2009).
Oregano targets harmful bacteria making it a natural alternative to antibiotics (Swamy et al., 2016; (Fournomiti et al., 2015).
Oregano’s antimicrobial properties also help prevent sepsis caused by massive bacterial inflammation (Mączka et al., 2023).
Antifungal Properties:
Oregano is highly effective against Candida albicans. Its active compounds, carvacrol and thymol, inhibit biofilm formation and combat drug-resistant fungal strains (Manohar et al., 2001).
Research highlights oregano oil’s ability to disrupt fungal cell walls, making it an essential tool in managing Candida overgrowth (Leyva-López et al., 2017).
Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Properties:
In addition to its antimicrobial action, oregano contains antioxidant compounds that help protect the gut from oxidative stress. Its anti-inflammatory effects can also help alleviate gut discomfort, which is common in conditions like IBS or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Oregano’s combined antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties make it an excellent herb for overall digestive support (Leyva-López et al., 2017).
Candida Overgrowth Control:
Oregano oil has been found to be highly effective against Candida albicans and other yeast strains. It inhibits not only the growth but also the biofilm formation of Candida, which is critical in addressing persistent infections. Studies show that oregano’s compounds, particularly carvacrol, help disrupt the biofilms that protect Candida cells, making them more susceptible to eradication (Aitzhanova et al., 2021). Oregano’s antifungal properties make it a useful tool in restoring gut balance, especially for those with chronic yeast overgrowth.
Candida Biofilm Control:
Oregano oil and extract has been shown to inhibit and reduce the ability of Candida albicans to produce and maintain biofilms (Hacioglu et al., 2021).
Digestive Health:
Oregano is traditionally used to alleviate bloating, indigestion, and nausea, thanks to its soothing and antimicrobial properties (NIH 2023).
Oregano powder has even been shown to increase the production of SFCAs, leading to higher beneficial bacteria counts and improved digestive health (Bauer et al., 2019).
Gut Microbial Balance:
Oregano’s bioactive compounds, particularly carvacrol and thymol, selectively target harmful pathogens like Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Clostridium difficile, and Helicobacter pylori while sparing beneficial gut bacteria. These compounds work by disrupting the cell membranes of harmful microbes, effectively reducing their growth and promoting a healthier microbial balance in the gut. This selective action is important in maintaining gut health without damaging the diversity of the microbiota (Soltani et al., 2021); (Fournomiti et al, 2015).
Oregano’s selective antimicrobial effects allow it to balance gut flora without harming beneficial bacteria (Jia et al., 2022).
Oregano was found to have tolerance to low pH, and selectivity towards reducing human bacterial pathogens (Si et al., 2006).
Parasite Management:
Oregano is also effective in managing certain gut parasites, such as Giardia lamblia. Its antimicrobial properties extend to disrupting the cellular structure of these parasites, helping to eliminate them from the digestive system. Research has demonstrated that oregano oil can help treat parasitic infections by affecting the cell walls of parasites, preventing them from causing harm (Davoodi et al., 2018).
SIBO Managemernt:
The bioactive compounds carvacrol and thymol may also play a role in managing small intestine bacterial overgrowth. (Chedid et al., 2014).
Oregano’s antibacterial properties make it effective for treating SIBO. (Davoodi et al., 2018).
Some herbal formulations containing oregano have demonstrated comparable efficacy to antibiotics in treating SIBO, highlighting its potential as a natural remedy for gut health (Redondo-Cuevas et al., 2024).

Practical Uses for Gut Health

SIBO Cleanses:
Oregano oil is often incorporated into gut cleanse supplement protocols to address bacterial microbial overgrowths. According to recent study, an herbal supplemental regimen including oregano created positive shifts in beneficial gut bacteria that contribute to improved barrier function, and improved intestinal permeability (Min et al., 2024).
Candida Diets:
It’s a staple in many Candida Cleanse regimens due to its ability to control fungal growth and reduce symptoms like bloating and fatigue. Both a specialised gut cleansing supplement containing oregano in addition to oregano in the diet can be used to advantage. Oregano pairs well with tomato and many other vegetables.
Digestive Health Maintenance:
A diluted preparation of oregano oil or oregano-infused tea can support digestive health by reducing pathogenic microbes and calming inflammation.

In summary, oregano (like the herb thyme) offers potent antimicrobial and antifungal benefits for the gut, making it a valuable tool in managing digestive imbalances, Candida overgrowth, and fungal infections while supporting overall gut health.

Other Health Benefits of Oregano

Antioxidants

Incorporating antioxidant-rich foods into your diet offers a range of benefits. These compounds help combat free radical damage, which can accelerate aging and contribute to various health concerns.

By reducing oxidative stress, antioxidants play a vital role in supporting healthy skin, eyes, heart, brain, and cellular function. Oregano is a nutrient-dense herb loaded with potent antioxidants like limonene, thymol, carvacrol, and terpinene, it ranks among the top antioxidant-rich foods (Leyva-López et al., 2017).

Oregano extract studies have revealed that the herb’s antioxidant effects are primarily attributed to carvacrol and thymol. (Coccimiglio et al., 2016). Oregano retains its full antioxidant value in both dried and fresh form (Henning et al., 2011).

A study found study indicates that supplementation with oregano reduces muscle damage and oxidative stress and increases antioxidant markers in male soldiers following intense physical activity of specialised military drills (Shirvani et al., 2022).

Carvacrol and thymol are mainly extracted from oregano oil, while studies show that the plant’s leaves contain a variety of other antioxidant compounds, such as phenols, triterpenes, rosmarinic acid, ursolic acid and oleanolic acid (Rao et al., 2011).

Antioxidants In Oregano

Oregano contains a variety of powerful antioxidants, primarily phenolic compounds, which contribute to its health benefits. These include:

Carvacrol – A major component with antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, playing a key role in reducing oxidative stress.
Thymol – Known for its antiseptic and antioxidant effects, it supports immune function and cellular health.
Rosmarinic Acid – A potent antioxidant that helps neutralize free radicals and reduce inflammation.
Luteolin and Apigenin – Flavonoids that provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, protecting against cellular damage.
Caffeic Acid and p-Coumaric Acid – Phenolic acids that contribute to its free radical-scavenging activities.
Beta-Caryophyllene – A terpene that may support anti-inflammatory and antioxidant responses.
Vitamin E – A natural antioxidant present in oregano, supporting skin and overall cellular health.

Anti-Inflammatory

Oregano is a powerful natural anti-inflammatory herb, thanks to its rich content of bioactive compounds like thymol, carvacrol, and rosmarinic acid. These compounds help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, which are linked to numerous chronic diseases.

Studies have shown that oregano extract can mitigate inflammatory responses in conditions like autoimmune arthritis, allergic asthma, and rheumatoid arthritis. Its anti-inflammatory effects are thought to stem from its antioxidant activity, which helps neutralise harmful free radicals that contribute to chronic inflammation.

Oregano products, such as essential oils and herbal extracts, are also used topically to soothe skin conditions like psoriasis, acne, and insect bites, as well as to alleviate muscle pain. However, it’s important to note that the most potent effects were observed in concentrated extracts rather than dietary use alone.

Supporting Studies and Findings

Animal studies:
Oregano extract reduced inflammation linked to autoimmune arthritis, allergic asthma, and rheumatoid arthritis (Mueller et al., 2010).
Essential oils:
The anti-inflammatory effects of oregano essential oil are attributed to its high antioxidant activity, improving conditions associated with chronic inflammation like cancer and Alzheimer’s disease (Azizi et al., 2020).
Topical applications:
Oregano oil and extracts are used to relieve skin conditions and muscle pain, thanks to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties (Bora et al., 2022). Oregano essential oil shows great potential for use in skin care products due to its powerful anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties (Han et al., 2017).
Concentrated forms:
Studies emphasise that oregano’s most potent anti-inflammatory effects are seen with oregano herbal extracts, not from dietary consumption alone (Leyva-López et al., 2017).

Incorporating oregano, whether fresh, dried, or as a supplement, may help support inflammation reduction as part of a broader health strategy.

Anti-Cancer

A medical professional in a white coat applies a bandage to a person's arm after a procedure in a clinical setting. The person is wearing a yellow beanie and a white sweatshirt.

Oregano, particularly its bioactive components carvacrol and thymol, shows promising anticancer properties. These compounds exhibit mechanisms that may inhibit cancer cell growth and induce apoptosis, the programmed death of cancer cells (Balusami et al., 2018), (Nanni et al., 2020).

Research indicates that oregano extracts can protect cells from DNA damage caused by oxidative stress, radiation, and mitogens—proteins that promote abnormal cell division.

Carvacrol and thymol, in particular, have been studied for their ability to slow melanoma cell proliferation and potentially reduce the spread of skin cancer. Lab studies have also linked oregano to the suppression of metastatic breast cancer cell progression, highlighting its potential therapeutic role in cancer management.

While consuming oregano alone is not a guaranteed method to prevent cancer, incorporating it into a varied, plant-based diet rich in antioxidants can help protect cells from changes that may lead to cancer. Notably, studies emphasise that these effects are primarily observed with concentrated oregano extracts or supplements rather than dietary amounts.

Supporting Studies and Findings

Melanoma and Skin Cancer:
Carvacrol and thymol inhibit melanoma cell proliferation and reduce metastasis potential by inducing apoptosis and halting cell cycles (Sampaio et al., 2021).
Breast Cancer:
Research in 2013 on oregano demonstrated oregano’s ability to reduce the progression of metastatic breast cancer (Kubatka et al., 2017).
Prostate and Lung Cancer:
Carvacrol exhibits dose-dependent anticancer effects by disrupting mitochondrial membrane potential and reducing tumor cell viability while sparing normal cells (Lim et al., 2019).

Cholesterol Levels

Oregano has been shown to improve lipid (blood fat) profiles, helping lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels. The essential oil of oregano, which contains antioxidant compounds like carvacrol and thymol, can reduce oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation, which play a significant role in fat metabolism.

Some studies suggest that oregano oil supplementation can lower total plasma cholesterol and LDL (bad cholesterol) while boosting HDL (good cholesterol) (Leyva-López et al., 2017).

These effects are thought to result from oregano’s ability to modulate lipid metabolism and enhance the body’s antioxidant defence systems, making it a potential natural aid for heart health (Mandoza et al., 2020).

Wound Healing

A person wearing a white t-shirt and gray shorts is adjusting a bandage wrapped around their knee.

Oregano essential oil promotes wound healing through its potent anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. It works by reducing inflammatory markers like reactive oxygen species (ROS), ICAM-1, iNOS, and COX-2, which are crucial in managing inflammation and oxidative stress.

Oregano also enhances cell movement and re-epithelialisation (skin growth), key processes in wound recovery. The active compounds carvacrol and thymol play a vital role in these effects, offering antimicrobial and antioxidant protection that helps prevent infections in healing wounds.

Supporting Studies and Findings

Oregano essential oil reduces inflammation markers and DNA damage in skin cells, aiding faster healing (Dhaheri et al., 2013).
It modulates immune responses by boosting anti-inflammatory substances like IL-10 (Khan et al
Oregano essential oil’s antimicrobial properties help prevent infections by blocking bacterial growth, such as Listeria monocytogenes (Lastra-Vargas et al., 2023).

Cooking With Oregano – Tips and Ideas

A close-up of a colorful Greek salad with fresh tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, red onions, and feta cheese, garnished with basil leaves and seasoned with pepper.

Oregano, with its bold and aromatic Mediterranean flavour, is a versatile herb that can elevate a wide range of dishes. It pairs particularly well with tomatoes, making it a go-to herb for pizzas, pasta sauces, and Mediterranean-inspired dishes. You can use oregano fresh or dried to infuse flavours in both simple and complex meals.

Common Dishes to Add Oregano:

Tomato-based recipes: Oregano shines in pasta sauces, pizza, and bruschetta.
Vegetable dishes: It complements roasted or sautéed vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant.
Legumes: Add oregano to lentils, chickpeas, or bean dishes for extra flavor.
Fish: Enhance fish recipes with a sprinkle of oregano for a Mediterranean twist.
Chili and stews: Add depth to your chili or stew with a pinch of oregano.

Cooking Tips for Using Oregano:

Sprinkle on meats: Adds a Mediterranean flair when sprinkled over meats like chicken or lamb.
Marinades and stuffings: Mix oregano into marinades or stuffings for an aromatic base.
Doughs and bread: Chop oregano leaves and mix them into pizza or bread dough for added flavor.
Salads: Fresh oregano leaves can be crushed and added to salads for an herbal boost.
Italian-Styled Dishes: Sprinkle freshly-crushed oregano on mozzarella cheese and tomatoes, then drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice for a classic dish. Just add a few olives and some fresh basil.

Enhancing and Moderating Oregano’s Flavor:

Add Late in the Cooking Process: To preserve its flavor, add oregano towards the end of cooking, especially in sauces and soups.
Crush for Stronger Flavour: Don’t chop! Crushing or grinding fresh oregano releases more of its essential oils, intensifying the flavour.
Start with Small Amounts: Oregano can become bitter if used in excess, so start with a small amount and adjust as needed.
Oregano Grown In Hot Sun: Oregano grown in the full, hot sun in summer will produce stronger oil than from plants grown in winter or in the shade.

Oregano Substitution:

Dried vs. Fresh: If a recipe calls for 1 tsp of dried oregano, substitute it with 1 tbsp of fresh oregano.

Growing and Purchasing Oregano

Oregano is a perennial herb, meaning it can grow year-round in your garden or even in a pot on your windowsill or balcony. You can buy fresh or dried oregano at most grocery stores or purchase oregano seeds online to grow your own.

Additionally, dried oregano is widely available, and you can also find oregano in various forms such as oil or powdered form.

By adding oregano to your cooking, you can easily incorporate its vibrant, herbaceous flavour into countless dishes, while also benefiting from its numerous health properties. Oregano pares especially well with other herbs and vegetables that are used in Mediterranean-styled cooking. Our Foundation diet is built on these principles, and more.

Can You Use Oregano Oil in Food?

Yes, oregano oil can be used in food, but it should be consumed in small amounts, typically by adding a few drops to cooked dishes. Always ensure that the oil is well-mixed before consumption.

While oregano oil is generally safe in moderation, it is important to use it with caution, especially in medicinal amounts. Always check with a healthcare provider if you’re unsure whether it’s right for you.

How to Take Oregano Supplements

Oregano as a supplement is available in many different forms.

When looking for oregano oil – look for high carvacrol content products, the key active ingredient in oregano oil, known for its antifungal and antimicrobial properties. Choose a product that highlights a high carvacrol content to maximise the oil’s therapeutic benefits.

Oregano extracts or supplements are still highly effective, especially when used as part of a formulation that contains many other herbs with antimicrobial activity.

Yeastrix Cleanse: A Comprehensive Antifungal Solution

For those looking for an all-in-one solution to tackle Candida and other fungal or bacterial infections, consider Yeastrix Cleanse, our 3rd generation antifungal supplement.

This product combines oregano with several other powerful antifungals, creating a balanced and effective cleanse for yeast overgrowth.

Yeastrix Cleanse includes:

With Yeastrix Cleanse, you can simplify your antifungal regimen by getting the benefits of oregano along with other natural ingredients that promote gut health and combat yeast infections. Made with the highest-quality, non-GMO, and vegetarian ingredients, it’s designed for those looking for a natural, safe, and effective approach to Candida management.

Oregano Safety Guidelines

Oregano oil is generally safe for topical and oral use when applied in moderation and for short durations. However, caution is required to avoid potential side effects, especially when using it in large amounts or for extended periods.

Oregano is unlikely to cause harm in most people as long as people do not consume too much oregano oil and ensure that any topical applications use a diluted form of the oil.

Here’s what you need to know:

Safe Use for Adults

Topical Use:
Oregano oil is typically safe for skin application if diluted it with a carrier oil, such as almond oil, to reduce the risk of irritation. Follow any directions. The oil is especially useful when treating toenail fungus.
Oral Use:
When taken by mouth, oregano oil is safe for adults (when taken as recommended on the container). It is also safe when applied inside the mouth but it is best to take internally under supervision. Take any supplements containing oregano extract as recommended.
Dilution Test:
Always test a small, diluted amount on a patch of skin to check for sensitivity or allergic reactions to oregano oil before broader use.

Potential Risks

Allergies
Some people may experience mild allergic reactions, such as skin rashes, when using oregano oil topically.
Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women:
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid oregano oil supplements.

Conclusion

Oregano has been used for thousands of years for therapeutic and culinary purposes.
The herb has powerful antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects. Adding dried or fresh oregano leaves to recipes is an excellent way to consume the plant’s antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.
It’s easy to cook with oregano. It goes well in any Mediterranean recipe, including sauces, fish and meat dishes, tomato recipes, soups and salads.
Oregano oil is especially good for stubborn toenail fungus. It is also a good adjunct to support a natural antimicrobial herbal medicine to assist with SIBO, IBS, IBS, or Candida overgrowth treatment.

Eric Bakker N.D.

Greetings! I am a naturopathic physician from New Zealand. Although I’ve retired from clinical practice since 2019, I remain passionate about helping people improve their lives. You’ll find I’m active online with a focus on natural health and wellbeing education through my Facebook page and YouTube channel, including this website.