But is the hype over the herby oil real?
Ahead, a closer look at the health benefits of oregano oil, according to registered dietitians and research.
What Is Oregano Oil?
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can be used as a supplement or topical product.
It’ssuperimportant to note that not all oregano oil is safe to consume.
In general, supplemental oregano oil (i.e.
“Oreganoessentialoil, on the other hand, is 100-percent undiluted oregano oil,” explains Kujawski.
This bang out is highly concentrated and should also be diluted, but only for topical use or aromatherapy.
That said, this article will focus on the oregano oil you’ll find as supplements.
Antioxidants may help reduce the risk by easing oxidative stress.
Such is the case of carvacrol, one of the main antioxidants in oregano oil, says Kujawski.
Talk about a dynamic duo.
Might Relieve Pain
The carvacrol in oregano oil may also play a role in pain relief.
Over time,chronic inflammationcan manifest as physical pain, including muscle and joint pain.
Similarly, oneanimal studyfound that carvacrol reduced inflammation and pain in mice.
This includesneurodegenerative disease, a condition marked by the decline of nerve cells in the brain/nervous system.
Oregano oil might just be able to help with that, though.
The main compounds in oregano oil carvacrol, thymol, and monoterpenes have antimicrobial properties, says Kujawski.
Translation: Healthier digestion.
The antioxidant properties of carvacrol and thymol might lend a hand, too.
In fact, a 2020 article suggests that oregano extracts may increase the risk of bleeding and miscarriage.
But take note: Liquid oregano oil tastes like actual oregano, which might not be your jam.
A quick reminder: Supplemental oregano oil isnotthe same as oregano essential oil, which is unsafe to eat.
Always,alwayscheck the label before consuming any oil as a supplement.
Safety first, folks!
The supplement industry is also not regulated by theFood and Drug Administration, says Purtell.
In other words, they check to ensure what’s on the label is actually inside the supplement.
How to Use Oregano Oil
Okay, so you’ve found a liquid or capsule supplement.
What’s the appropriate dosage?
Well, there isn’t enough research to determine an effective dose, according to theNLM.
This will ensure that the amount you’re taking is safe.
The oregano flavor works especially well in tomato sauce, as most recipes call for oregano anyway.
(Homemade pizza, anyone?)
Finally, it’s worth noting that no supplement including oregano oil is a cure-all.
(Up next:How to Use the Five Most Common Herbs)
