π Common Names (6 Languages)
β Evidence-Based Benefits
Powerful antimicrobial with high antioxidant capacity. In vitro studies show oregano oil effective against bacteria (MRSA, E. coli), fungi (Candida), and parasites (PMID: 23484421). RCT demonstrates improvement in intestinal parasites with oregano oil (PMID: 10815019). Antioxidant capacity 4x higher than blueberries. May benefit respiratory infections, digestive issues, and skin conditions. Carvacrol and thymol are primary active compounds.
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π¬ Clinical Trials & Evidence
βοΈ Evidence-Based Research: Clinical trials provide the highest level of evidence for herbal efficacy and safety. The trials listed below represent peer-reviewed research registered on ClinicalTrials.gov. Each trial includes detailed protocols, patient populations, interventions tested, and measurable outcomes. Click links to access full trial details and published results.
Study: Antimicrobial activity against resistant organisms
RCT: Intestinal parasite improvement
π Find More Clinical Trials
Search for additional ongoing and completed trials investigating this herb's therapeutic effects:
π‘ Research Tip: Use both common name and scientific name when searching for comprehensive results. Filter by "Completed" trials to find published outcomes.
π Drug Interactions
β οΈ CRITICAL SAFETY INFORMATION
Herb-drug interactions can be serious and potentially life-threatening. Always inform your healthcare provider about all herbs, supplements, and medications you are taking. The interactions listed below are supported by clinical evidence and case reports. Citations link to peer-reviewed research on PubMed.
π Evidence-Based Interactions: Each interaction below includes research citations (PMID links) documenting the mechanism, clinical significance, and management recommendations. Click citations to access full studies.
Antidiabetic Medications
Effect: May lower blood glucose
Mechanism: Preliminary glucose-lowering effects
Action: Monitor blood sugar levels
Anticoagulants
Effect: Theoretical increased bleeding risk
Action: Discontinue 2 weeks before surgery. Monitor with warfarin
Copper & Iron
Effect: High doses may reduce mineral absorption
Action: Take minerals apart from oregano supplements
CYP450 Substrates
Effect: May inhibit drug metabolism
Action: Monitor at high doses
π Key Interaction Databases & Resources
- Natural Medicines Database: Professional herb-drug interaction checker
- PubMed: Search for latest interaction research
- Drugs.com: Drug interaction checker
- Micromedex: Hospital-grade interaction database (subscription required)
π‘ Clinical Tip: Show your healthcare provider this page and the linked research citations when discussing potential interactions.
β οΈ Safety Information
Adverse Events
Generally safe as culinary herb. Oil: May cause gastrointestinal upset, allergic reactions. Can irritate mucous membranes if undiluted. Rare contact dermatitis. May lower blood sugar. High doses may reduce iron absorption. No serious adverse events at recommended doses. Always dilute essential oil before use.
β Contraindications
Avoid therapeutic doses during pregnancy/breastfeeding (may stimulate menstruation). Caution with diabetes medications (may lower blood sugar). Allergy to Lamiaceae family. May interact with anticoagulants (theoretical). Discontinue 2 weeks before surgery. Undiluted oil toxic - always dilute.
𧬠Mechanism of Action
Carvacrol and thymol (phenolic compounds) provide: (1) Antimicrobial via disruption of bacterial cell membranes, (2) Antifungal via ergosterol binding in fungal membranes, (3) Antioxidant via free radical scavenging, (4) Anti-inflammatory via COX-2 and LOX inhibition, (5) Immune modulation.
π Dosage & Administration
Oil (must be diluted): 100-200mg in capsules 2-3 times daily OR 2-3 drops diluted in carrier oil. Ensure oil is emulsified or in enteric capsules. Dried herb: 1-2 teaspoons as tea 3 times daily. Fresh herb: culinary use freely. For infections: use oil for 2-4 weeks maximum. NEVER use undiluted oil internally - must be in capsule or heavily diluted.
βοΈ Note: Consult healthcare provider for appropriate dosing, especially if taking medications.
π Additional Resources
π WHO Monograph
Available in WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants
π¬ PubMed Search
π§ͺ ClinicalTrials.gov
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Data Retrieval Date: November 29, 2025
Compiled by: Sheraz Ahmed
License: CC BY-SA 4.0
Citation: Ahmed, S. (2025). Medicinal Herbs Database. Clinical Corner. https://welovelmc.com/medical-tools.htm