TRADITIONALLY INDICATED FOR
THESE SYMPTOMS
Oregano may be beneficial for these symptoms.
The suitability of any food for a condition is highly dependent on the individual.
Please see your doctor before using this food to treat a medical condition.
CONTRAINDICATED FOR
THESE SYMPTOMS
Oregano may be harmful or contraindicated for these symptoms.
Note this is not a complete list of all possible contraindications.
Please see your doctor before using this food to treat a medical condition.
Oregano leaves, when used in their natural form (as opposed to concentrated oregano oil), are generally considered safe for most people when consumed in moderation, either as a culinary herb or in herbal teas. However, there are still some contraindications and precautions to be aware of:
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: While oregano in culinary amounts is typically considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, oregano oil (which is much more concentrated) should be avoided during pregnancy due to its potential to stimulate uterine contractions.
Allergies: Individuals allergic to plants in the Lamiaceae family (which includes basil, mint, thyme, lavender, and sage) may also be allergic to oregano. Symptoms can include rashes, itching, or breathing difficulties.
Gastrointestinal Issues: Large quantities of oregano, particularly in concentrated forms, may cause digestive discomfort. People with conditions like gastritis, ulcers, or acid reflux may experience irritation in the stomach or digestive tract, leading to symptoms like heartburn or nausea.
Blood Thinning: Oregano contains compounds that may have mild blood-thinning effects. If you're taking anticoagulant medications (i.e. warfarin, aspirin), using in conjunction with oregano may increase the risk of bleeding.
Lowers Blood Sugar Levels: Oregano may lower blood sugar levels, so individuals with diabetes or those on diabetic medication should monitor their blood sugar levels carefully when consuming oregano.
Surgical Considerations: If you are planning surgery, it's advisable to stop using oregano at least two weeks before, as it may have a mild blood-thinning effect that could increase the risk of bleeding during and after surgery.
Herb Drug Interaction Risk
Here are some potential herb drug interactions with Oregano. Please see your health care provider for more information.
- Analgesic: If the mechanism of pain relief is narcotic, do not combine with antihistamines.