About Oil of Oregano
Oil of oregano (Origanum vulgare) is rich in carvacrol and thymol, compounds with well-demonstrated antimicrobial and antifungal properties in vitro. Force et al. (2000) showed activity against gut parasites in a small human trial. Stiles et al. (1995) confirmed antifungal activity. However, human RCTs are sparse and small — most evidence is in vitro or animal. Commonly used for immune support and gut health, but clinical claims outpace the human evidence. Short-term use only; long-term safety data is limited. May interact with blood thinners.
What Oil of Oregano supports
- Antimicrobial and antifungal properties (mostly in vitro evidence)
- Small human trial showed activity against gut parasites
How much Oil of Oregano to take
Clinical studies typically use 150–600 mg of Oil of Oregano. 150–600 mg/day of oregano oil concentrate (standardized to 60–80% carvacrol). Many products list total oil weight including carrier oil (e.g. olive oil), which inflates the label amount. A '6000 mg' softgel likely contains far less active oregano oil.
- Effective range
- 150–600 mg
Clinical evidence
Limited clinical evidence. Strong in vitro antimicrobial data but very limited human RCTs. Most clinical claims are extrapolated from lab studies.
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