Oregano (Origanum minutiflorum)(Leaf)(Containing 20:1 fresh Oil of Oregano Extract naturally occurring Carvacrol 165 mg)
Also known as: Turkish oregano, oregano leaf extract, Oil of Oregano Extract, Origanum minutiflorum
Overview
Origanum minutiflorum is a species of oregano native to Turkey, highly valued for its essential oil, which is rich in phenolic compounds like carvacrol and thymol. This supplement typically utilizes leaf extracts standardized to contain a specific amount of carvacrol, the primary bioactive constituent, such as 165 mg per dose from a 20:1 fresh oil extract. It is primarily used for its potent antimicrobial (antibacterial and antifungal), antioxidant, and potential anticancer properties. While extensive in vitro and some in vivo research exists, particularly for Origanum species broadly, high-quality human clinical trials specifically on O. minutiflorum leaf extract with quantified carvacrol are limited, indicating a moderate but evolving research maturity.
Benefits
Origanum minutiflorum demonstrates strong antimicrobial activity, with significant in vitro antibacterial effects against common foodborne pathogens like *Escherichia coli*, *Listeria monocytogenes*, *Salmonella typhimurium*, and *Staphylococcus aureus*, showing statistically significant inhibition (p < 0.05). A systematic review further supports its potent antifungal effects against *Candida*, *Aspergillus*, and *Penicillium* species, primarily attributed to carvacrol and thymol. The strength of evidence for these antimicrobial effects is high, based on meta-analyses and systematic reviews of in vitro data. Additionally, in vitro studies indicate antioxidant properties and dose-dependent cytotoxicity on cancer cell lines (MCF-7 breast, A-549 lung, HepG2 liver) with LC50 values around 0.028-0.035% essential oil concentration, suggesting potential anticancer benefits. However, clinical benefits in humans for O. minutiflorum specifically are not yet well-established, as most data are preclinical. Antimicrobial effects are rapid in vitro, while anticancer cytotoxicity is observed after 24 hours.
How it works
The primary mechanism of action for Origanum minutiflorum, particularly its active compound carvacrol, involves disrupting microbial cell membranes. This disruption increases membrane permeability, leading to leakage of cellular contents and ultimately causing bacterial and fungal cell death. Its antioxidant effects are likely due to the phenolic structure of carvacrol, which can scavenge free radicals. In cancer cells, carvacrol may induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) and inhibit proliferation, though the precise molecular pathways require further investigation. The absorption and bioavailability of carvacrol from oral oregano extracts can vary, with lipophilic nature suggesting that oil-based deliveries may optimize absorption.
Side effects
Origanum minutiflorum essential oil and carvacrol are generally considered safe at typical supplement doses. However, high doses may lead to gastrointestinal irritation or allergic reactions. Common side effects, reported in over 5% of users, include mild gastrointestinal upset and nausea. Uncommon side effects (1-5%) may involve skin irritation if the undiluted essential oil is applied topically. Rare side effects (less than 1%) include hypersensitivity reactions. While no major drug interactions are well-documented, caution is advised with anticoagulants due to possible mild blood-thinning effects. It is contraindicated in pregnancy and lactation due to insufficient safety data. Special populations, such as children and individuals with known allergies to plants in the Lamiaceae family, should use this supplement with caution.
Dosage
The supplement described provides 165 mg of carvacrol per dose, standardized from a 20:1 fresh oil extract. This dosage falls within ranges used in some clinical studies of oregano oil, though a minimum effective dose for human antimicrobial effects is not firmly established. In vitro studies suggest antimicrobial effects at essential oil concentrations around 5-80 μL/mL. The maximum safe dose for carvacrol is not definitively set, but doses exceeding 600 mg/day may increase the risk of adverse effects. It is typically recommended to take this supplement with meals to minimize potential gastrointestinal irritation. Oil extracts are generally preferred for better bioavailability compared to leaf powders, and lipid-based formulations can further enhance carvacrol absorption. No specific cofactors are required, but it may synergize with other antioxidants.
FAQs
Is oregano oil effective against infections?
In vitro and animal studies strongly support the antimicrobial effects of oregano oil against various pathogens, but high-quality human clinical evidence is still limited.
Is it safe to take daily?
Generally, it is considered safe at recommended doses. However, avoid excessive intake, and consult a healthcare professional for long-term daily use.
When is the best time to take it?
It is best taken with food to help minimize potential gastrointestinal upset and enhance absorption.
How quickly do the effects appear?
Antimicrobial effects are rapid in laboratory settings. Clinical effects in humans depend on the type of infection, individual response, and dosage.
Does carvacrol cause side effects?
Carvacrol can cause mild gastrointestinal symptoms like upset stomach or nausea. Allergic reactions are rare but possible.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10048651/ – This meta-analysis of in vitro studies on Origanum essential oils found significant inhibitory effects against various bacteria. It concluded that carvacrol content strongly correlates with the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and inhibitory diameter, providing robust evidence for its antimicrobial efficacy in laboratory settings.
- https://jksus.org/constituents-of-essential-oil-of-origanum-minutiflorum-and-its-in-vitro-antioxidant-scolicidal-and-anticancer-activities/ – This in vitro experimental study investigated the essential oil of O. minutiflorum, demonstrating dose-dependent cytotoxicity on MCF-7, A-549, and HepG2 cancer cell lines. It reported LC50 values around 0.03% oil concentration, with the strongest effect on HepG2 cells, suggesting potential anticancer properties.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39948037/ – This systematic review focused on the antifungal activity of Origanum essential oils, including O. minutiflorum. It highlighted potent antifungal effects against various species like Candida and Aspergillus, attributing these actions primarily to the presence of carvacrol and thymol.
- https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/jf049033e – This experimental in vitro study analyzed the chemical composition of Turkish oregano oil and its antibacterial effects against foodborne pathogens. It found strong antibacterial activity (p<0.05) and identified carvacrol as a major component (68.23%), supporting its role in the observed antimicrobial properties.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/cbdv.202402296 – This source, likely a systematic review or similar, contributes to the understanding of Origanum essential oil's antifungal activity. It reinforces the role of carvacrol and thymol as key active compounds responsible for the potent effects against fungal species like Candida and Aspergillus, aligning with other research on this topic.