Health and Nutrition: Health Benefits of Oregano

Oregano has many health benefits, including weight loss

Oils from oregano extract and oregano essential oils originate from the same plant, but are different products. Various studies and anecdotal accounts claim these oils have various health benefits.

1. Natural antibiotic

Oregano and the carvacrol it contains may help fight bacteria. While many reported benefits of essential oils come from anecdotal sources, limited research suggests oregano essential oil may have protective effects against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and E. coli, both of which are common causes of urinary and respiratory tract infections. Although more human studies on the effects of oregano oil extract are needed, it contains many of the same compounds as oregano essential oil. It may offer similar health benefits when used as a supplement.

2. May help lower cholesterol

Oregano and its oils contain numerous polyphenols, including carvacrol and thymol. Research suggests that these active compounds help to lower cholesterol.

3. Powerful antioxidant

Antioxidants help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.

Free radicals are a natural product of metabolism but may play a role in aging and developing some diseases, such as cancer and heart disease. They can also build up in the body through exposure to environmental factors, such as cigarette smoke and air pollutants. Because oregano oil extract is very concentrated, you need much less oregano oil to reap the same antioxidant benefits as you would from fresh oregano.

4. May help you lose weight

Thanks to oregano’s carvacrol content, oregano oil may aid weight loss and benefit obesity treatment. More research is needed to demonstrate that oregano oil has a role in weight loss, but it may be worth trying as part of a healthy diet and lifestyle.

How to use oregano oil

Oregano oil extract is widely available in capsule and tablet form. It can be bought from most health food shops or online. Because the strength of oregano supplements can vary, it’s important to read the directions on the individual packet for instructions on how to use the product.

Oregano essential oil is also available and can be diluted with a carrier oil and applied topically. Note that no essential oil should be ingested. 

If you’re interested in taking oregano oil extract but currently taking prescription medications, make sure to consult your healthcare professional before adding it to your regimen.