Oregano, indigenous to northern Europe, is cultivated in regions throughout the world. Holistically, oregano oil is touted to treat numerous ailments ranging from asthma to rheumatoid arthritis, however no substantive evidence exists to support these claims. Oregano contains some antifungal and antibacterial properties as do hundreds of other spices and herbs. Weak evidence exists to support the purported health benefits of oregano. Check with your health care provider before using herbs to treat health conditions.
Claims
Oregano oil is purported to treat candida, undiagnosed intestinal parasites and sinusitis. The antibacterial and antifungal properties found in oregano could conceivably help prevent or treat sinus problems, the Mayo Clinic reports. However no substantive evidence exists to support its use for sinus disorders or any health-related issues.
Expert Insight
A study published in October, 2009 in the "Pakistan Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences" found the majority or approximately 70 of 111 bacteria types tested were resistant to the antibacterial properties found in oregano.
Staphylococcus saprophyticus was among the two dozen types of bacteria that succumbed to antibacterial effects of oregano oil. The staphylococcus saprophyticus bacteria is responsible for up to 15 percent of urinary tract infections.
Considerations
Oregano oil won't necessarily prevent or treat medical conditions just because it may destroy microorganisms in a laboratory setting. Double-blind, placebo-controlled trials involving humans are needed to learn the true health benefits of oregano oil, cautions the UPMC. No such studies had been conducted as of April, 2011. Oregano contains dietary fiber, iron, manganese and vitamins A, K and C.
Dosing/Safety
A typical dose of oregano oil is 100 mg three times per day of a product standardized to contain approximately 60 percent of the supposed active ingredient carvacrol. Carvacrol is a thick, oily and colorless liquid often used often as a fungicide and disinfectant.
No specific safety issues have been linked to oregano oil but essential oils of herbs in general are potentially toxic, notes the UPMC. Ask your health care provider about the potential health benefits and risks of taking oregano.
References
- International Centre for Science and High Technology: Maps/Essential Oils
- Dictionary.com: Carvacrol
- Pakistan Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences: Antibacterial activity of oregano (Origanum vulgare Linn.) against gram positive bacteria
- Mayo Clinic: Acute Sinusitis
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center: Oregano Oil
- Pharmacy Times: Urinary Tract Infections
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