Oil of Oregano
Origanum vulgare — wild Mediterranean oregano extract.
One of nature's most potent antimicrobial herbs. Oil of Oregano contains carvacrol and thymol — two phenolic compounds with documented antibacterial, antifungal, and antioxidant properties that have been used in traditional medicine for centuries.
Evidence Quality
Strong in vitro (laboratory) evidence for antimicrobial activity. Limited high-quality human clinical trials. Evidence is most compelling for gut health and immune support. Effects are well-established in ethnobotanical and animal research.
What Is Oil of Oregano?
Oil of Oregano is extracted through steam distillation of the leaves and flowers of Origanum vulgare. The two key active compounds are carvacrol (40–86% in quality extracts) and thymol — both phenolic terpenoids with potent biological activity.
High-quality supplements are standardized to carvacrol content (minimum 70%) and come from wild-harvested Mediterranean plants (Greece, Turkey) — not supermarket kitchen oregano, which has entirely different chemistry.
Key Benefits
Antimicrobial Activity
Carvacrol has demonstrated activity against numerous pathogens including E. coli, Salmonella, Staphylococcus, and Candida in laboratory and some clinical settings.
Gut Health & Parasites
Used clinically to address small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) and intestinal parasites. One human trial showed significant reduction in intestinal parasites after 6 weeks.
Antioxidant Power
ORAC (antioxidant capacity) value is exceptionally high — among the strongest of any plant-based substance. Helps neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress.
Immune & Respiratory Support
Traditionally used to reduce duration and severity of cold and flu symptoms. Anti-inflammatory effects in the respiratory tract are supported by animal and in vitro research.
Dosage & How to Take It
Liquid oil (drops)
3–6 drops 1–3× daily, diluted in water or juice
Softgel capsules
150–200 mg of 70%+ carvacrol extract, 1–2× daily
Duration
Short-term use (1–4 weeks) for acute infections. Cycle off to protect gut microbiome diversity — it kills beneficial bacteria too.
Important
Never apply undiluted directly to skin or mucous membranes. Always dilute liquid oil before ingestion.
Contraindications & Cautions
- Pregnancy & breastfeeding: Avoid — may stimulate uterine contractions at therapeutic doses.
- Anticoagulants: May have blood-thinning effects — consult your doctor if on warfarin or aspirin.
- Oregano/thyme allergy: Avoid if allergic to Lamiaceae family plants.
- Gut microbiome disruption: Prolonged use can reduce beneficial bacteria — do not take continuously for more than 4 weeks without a break.
- Iron absorption: Carvacrol may reduce iron absorption — take separately from iron supplements.
What to Look for When Buying
- Minimum 70% carvacrol content — this is the key bioactive marker
- From wild Origanum vulgare (Mediterranean origin)
- GC/MS tested (Gas Chromatography) — standard for essential oil authenticity
- Softgel or enteric-coated capsule — protects against stomach irritation
Where to Buy
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Amazon — Oil of Oregano (70%+ Carvacrol)
Wild Mediterranean oregano, high-carvacrol extract, GC/MS verified purity.
iHerb — Oregano Oil Selection
Multiple standardized carvacrol extracts. Ships internationally at competitive prices.