Q & A: The effects of oregano

by Jacki Hart, MD

Q: I have been taking oil of oregano for colds and flu, which seems to be very effective for me. Are there any dangers in taking oil of oregano?

A: Oil of oregano is extracted from a plant called Origanum vulgare, an herb from the Labiatae family and often referred to as wild oregano. Other members of the Labiatae family include:

• Origanum majorana (marjoram and generally the oregano found as a dried herb on ones table at home)
• Thymus vulgaris (thyme)
• Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary)
• Hyssopus officinalis (hyssop)
• Ocimum basilicum (basil)
• Mentha piperita (peppermint)
• Salvia officinalis (sage)
• Lavendula officinalis (lavender)

There is not a lot of scientific information about oil of oreganos effects on cold and flu symptoms. However, the essential oils of all of the herbs in this family are believed to help prevent infections because they have both antiseptic and antioxidant properties. Once a cold or flu sets in, these herbs cant get rid of an infection any faster, but they may help to alleviate symptoms, for example:

• Hyssop tea or thyme for a cough
• Sage gargle for a sore throat
• Peppermint oil chest rub for congestion

There are a few safety considerations for oil of oregano. First, there have been reports of allergic reactions to this herb, ranging from a rash to throat tightness and difficulty breathing. If you are allergic to one of the herbs in this family, you will likely be allergic to many of the others. In addition, oregano is particularly high in substances called tannins, which can interfere with the absorption of metals such as iron, zinc, and copper. Therefore, if you are going to take these medicinal herbs, particularly wild oregano, do not take them around mealtime to allow your body to absorb the normal amount of these minerals from foods.