Understanding Potential Interactions with Oregano Oil
Oregano oil, derived from the Origanum vulgare plant, contains potent compounds like carvacrol and thymol [3, 6]. These compounds are associated with various properties, but their potency also means they can potentially interact with certain medications and supplements [3]. It is important to approach the use of oregano oil with caution and be informed about possible interactions.
Potential Interactions with Medications
The active compounds in oregano oil may influence physiological processes in the body, which could potentially interact with the effects of certain prescription medications. It is important to consult a healthcare professional if you are taking any medications before using oregano oil.
Blood Thinners
Oregano oil may have an effect on blood clotting [3, 4]. Individuals taking anticoagulant or antiplatelet medications, commonly referred to as blood thinners, should be aware of this potential interaction. Combining substances that affect blood clotting could potentially increase the risk of bruising or bleeding [2, 3].
- Examples of these medications include: Warfarin, Aspirin, Clopidogrel, Apixaban, and Rivaroxaban [1, 2].
Diabetes Medications
Some information suggests that oregano oil may affect blood sugar levels [5]. For individuals managing diabetes with medication, it is important to be aware of the potential for any substance that might influence blood sugar. Close monitoring of blood sugar levels is important if using oregano oil while on diabetes medication [2, 5].
- Examples of these medications include: Metformin, Insulin, Glimepiride, and Glyburide [2, 5].
Lithium
There are suggestions that oregano oil might influence how the body processes lithium, a medication used to treat certain mood disorders [1, 2]. Individuals taking lithium should consult with their healthcare provider before considering the use of oregano oil [1, 2].
Medications Metabolized by the Liver
Some compounds in oregano oil might potentially affect liver enzymes involved in metabolizing certain medications [2, 4]. This could theoretically alter how quickly the body breaks down these drugs. Consulting a healthcare professional is advisable if you are taking medications that are metabolized by the liver [2, 4].
Potential Interactions with Other Supplements
The potential for interaction is not limited to prescription medications. Oregano oil may also interact with other herbal supplements and certain nutrients.
Supplements Affecting Blood Clotting
Similar to its potential interaction with blood-thinning medications, oregano oil should be used with caution alongside other supplements known to affect blood clotting. Combining such supplements could potentially increase the risk of bleeding [2, 3].
- Examples include: Garlic, Ginger, Ginkgo, Ginseng, and Red Clover [2, 3].
Supplements Affecting Blood Sugar
To help avoid potential fluctuations in blood sugar, oregano oil should be used with caution if you are also taking other supplements that are believed to lower blood sugar levels [2].
- Examples include: Aloe, Bitter Melon, and Chromium [2].
Mineral Supplements
Some research suggests that oregano may potentially affect the absorption of certain minerals, including iron, zinc, and copper [1, 2]. If you are taking these mineral supplements, it might be advisable to take them at a different time than oregano oil [2].
Comparison of Potential Interactions
| Substance Type | Examples | Potential Area of Interaction with Oregano Oil |
|---|---|---|
| Anticoagulants | Warfarin, Aspirin [1, 2] | May affect blood clotting [2, 3]. |
| Antidiabetes Drugs | Metformin, Insulin [2, 5] | May affect blood sugar levels [2, 5]. |
| Lithium | Lithobid [1, 2] | May potentially affect how the body processes lithium [1, 2]. |
| Other Supplements | Garlic, Ginkgo, Aloe, Iron [2] | May have additive effects on blood thinning or blood sugar; may affect mineral absorption [2, 3]. |
Considerations for Using Oregano Oil
Beyond specific interactions, there are certain situations and populations for whom oregano oil use requires particular caution or may not be recommended:
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The use of oregano oil during pregnancy and breastfeeding is generally not recommended due to limited safety data [2, 6, 11].
- Bleeding Disorders: Individuals with pre-existing bleeding disorders should use caution with substances that may affect blood clotting [2].
- Allergies: People with known allergies to plants in the Lamiaceae family (mint, basil, sage, lavender) may be at higher risk of an allergic reaction to oregano [2, 6].
- Prior to Surgery: It is often recommended to discontinue the use of herbal supplements, including oregano oil, prior to scheduled surgical procedures. Discuss this with your healthcare provider [1, 2].
Conclusion
Oregano oil is a potent herbal supplement with potential benefits, but it also carries potential risks of interaction. Its influence on processes like blood clotting and blood sugar regulation means it may interact with medications like blood thinners and diabetes drugs. Interactions with other supplements and certain minerals are also possible. Individuals with specific health conditions, those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, and those scheduled for surgery should exercise particular caution. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before incorporating oregano oil into your routine, especially if you are taking any medications or have underlying health concerns. Understanding what you should not mix with oregano oil is a critical step towards safe and informed use.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new supplement or medication.
1. OIL OF OREGANO - Tebra 2. Oregano - Uses, Side Effects, and More - WebMD 3. Oil of Oregano: Benefits, Uses, Side Effects, and More - Health 4. Can Essential Oils Interfere With the Prescriptions You're Writing? - ThriveAP 5. 4 Potential Benefits of Oregano Oil and How to Use It - Verywell Health 6. Oregano: Health Benefits, Side Effects, Uses, Dose ... - RxList 7. Oregano: Medical Uses and Risks - WebMD 8. 8 Benefits and Uses of Oregano Oil - GoodRx 9. 5 Oregano Oil Side Effects You Should Be Aware Of - Longevity.Technology 10. Oregano Oil: Health Benefits, Uses and Side Effects - MedicineNet 11. Oregano - Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed®) - NCBI 12. Oil of Oregano - Alberta Rheumatology
