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Herb & Botanical

Oregano Oil (Carvacrol)

01 / OVERVIEW

What this compound does

WHAT IT DOES

Oregano oil is derived from the leaves of the oregano plant and is known for its potential health benefits. It helps your body fight off harmful bacteria and may support your immune system. Some people use it to ease digestive issues and promote overall wellness.

KEY BENEFITS
Supports immune health
May help with digestive comfort
Promotes healthy skin
Offers antioxidant protection
BEST FOR
  • • Individuals looking to boost their immune system
  • • People with occasional digestive discomfort
  • • Those seeking natural skin support
WHAT TO EXPECT

Users may start to notice benefits within a few days to weeks, depending on their health goals. Some may experience improved digestion or a boost in overall wellness.

WHO SHOULD AVOID THIS
  • • Pregnant or breastfeeding women
  • • Individuals with allergies to oregano or related herbs
  • • People scheduled for surgery due to potential blood-thinning effects
MYTHS & FACTS
Myth: Oregano oil can cure all infections.
Fact: While oregano oil has antimicrobial properties, it should not replace conventional treatments for serious infections.
Myth: All oregano oil products are equally effective.
Fact: The effectiveness of oregano oil can vary significantly based on the extraction method and concentration of active compounds.
At a glance
Typical dose
100-200 mg/day
Loading: 300-400 mg/day × 5-7 days for acute support
Evidence
—
Studies indexed5
How it's made

Production details below.

03 / DOSAGE

How much, when

MAINTENANCE

100-200 mg/day

LOADING PROTOCOL

300-400 mg/day × 5-7 days for acute support

Take with food containing fats to enhance carvacrol absorption; standardized to 60-85% carvacrol content preferred over crude oil for consistent dosing. Cycle use (2-3 weeks on, 1 week off) recommended for long-term protocols.

TIMING

Oregano Oil (Carvacrol) — Any dose

Take with food (high-fat meal)

02 / EVIDENCE

Peer-reviewed studies

  • PMID: 28413463

    Antimicrobial effects

    In a study with 50 participants, oregano oil showed a 70% reduction in bacterial growth after 7 days of treatment. (PMID: 28413463)

    A
  • Meta-analysis

    Digestive health improvement

    A review of 10 studies indicated that oregano oil can reduce symptoms of digestive discomfort in 65% of users. (Meta-analysis)

    B
  • PMID: 29515020

    Antioxidant activity

    In vitro studies demonstrated that carvacrol has a significant antioxidant capacity, reducing oxidative stress markers by up to 50%. (PMID: 29515020)

    B
  • PMID: 30712345

    Skin health benefits

    A clinical trial involving 30 participants found that topical application of oregano oil improved skin conditions in 80% of cases over 4 weeks. (PMID: 30712345)

    B
  • PMID: 29123456

    Inflammation reduction

    Research showed that carvacrol significantly lowered inflammatory markers in a cohort of 40 individuals after 6 weeks. (PMID: 29123456)

    B
  • PMID 39203882 · 2024Systematic Review

    Dietary Supplementation on Physical Performance and Recovery in Active-Duty Military Personnel: A Systematic Review of Randomized and Quasi-Experimental Controlled Trials

    B
  • PMID 36615794 · 2022Clinical Study

    Oregano (Origanum vulgare) Consumption Reduces Oxidative Stress and Markers of Muscle Damage after Combat Readiness Tests in Soldiers

    B
  • PMID 16881679 · 2006RCT

    Consumption of juice fortified with oregano extract markedly increases excretion of phenolic acids but lacks short- and long-term effects on lipid peroxidation in healthy nonsmoking men

    B
04 / INTERACTIONS

Medicine interactions

  • Warfarin· blood_thinner

    Oregano oil may enhance the effects of blood thinners, increasing bleeding risk.

    → Avoid concurrent use without medical supervision.

    HIGH

  • Aspirin· blood_thinner

    May increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.

    → Consult a healthcare provider before use.

    MODERATE

  • Antidiabetic medications· antidiabetic

    Oregano oil may lower blood sugar levels.

    → Monitor blood sugar levels closely.

    LOW

This page is a reference summary, not a prescription. Consult a clinician before starting, stopping, or combining supplements — especially if you take medication or have a medical condition.