Uses Of Oregano
Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database rates effectiveness based on scientific evidence according to the following scale: Effective, Likely Effective, Possibly Effective, Possibly Ineffective, Likely Ineffective, Ineffective, and Insufficient Evidence to Rate. The effectiveness ratings for OREGANO are as follows:
Insufficient evidence to rate effectiveness for…
- Parasites in the intestines. Some early research shows that taking 200 mg of a specific oregano leaf oil product (ADP, Biotics Research Corporation, Rosenberg, Texas) by mouth three times daily with meals for 6 weeks can kill certain types of parasites; however, these parasites usually do not require medical treatment.
- Wound healing. Early research suggests that applying an oregano extract to the skin twice daily for up to 14 days after a minor skin surgery might reduce the risk of infection and improve scars.
- Acne.
- Allergies.
- Arthritis.
- Asthma.
- Athlete’s foot.
- Bleeding disorders.
- Bronchitis.
- Cough.
- Dandruff.
- Flu.
- Headaches.
- Heart conditions.
- High cholesterol.
- Indigestion and bloating.
- Muscle and joint pain.
- Painful menstrual periods.
- Urinary tract infections (UTI).
- Varicose veins.
- Warts.
- Other conditions.
More evidence is needed to rate oregano for these uses.
Side Effects Of Oregano
Oregano leaf and oil are LIKELY SAFE when taken in amounts commonly found in food. The leaf is POSSIBLY SAFE when taken by mouth or applied to the skin appropriately as medicine. Mild side effects include stomach upset. It may cause an allergic reaction in people who have an allergy to plants in the Lamiaceae family. Oregano oil should not be applied to the skin in concentrations greater than 1% as this might cause irritation.
Warnings & Precautions For Oregano
- Pregnancy and breast-feeding: POSSIBLY UNSAFE when taken by mouth in medicinal amounts during pregnancy. There is concern that taking oregano in amounts larger than food amounts might cause miscarriage. There is not enough reliable information about the safety if you are breastfeeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.
- Bleeding disorders: Oregano might increase the risk of bleeding in people with bleeding disorders.
- Allergies: Can cause reactions in people allergic to Lamiaceae family plants, including basil, hyssop, lavender, marjoram, mint, and sage.
- Diabetes: Oregano might lower blood sugar levels. People with diabetes should use oregano cautiously.
- Surgery: It might increase the risk of bleeding. People who use oregano should stop 2 weeks before surgery.
Dosage Of Oregano
The appropriate dose depends on several factors such as the user’s age, health, and several other conditions. At this time there is not enough scientific information to determine an appropriate range of doses (in children/in adults). Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult your pharmacist or physician or other healthcare professional before using.
Other
Consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Source
All information on oregano has been provided courtesy of MedLinePlus from the National Library of Medicine and from the FDA.
