Oregano Oil (OEO), derived from the Origanum vulgare plant, is a concentrated botanical extract widely used as a dietary supplement. Since OEO is a supplement and not a pharmaceutical drug, its use is not standardized or regulated. This lack of standardization makes precise, universally applicable dosage instructions challenging to provide. The appropriate milligram dosage depends entirely on the product’s concentration and the user’s individual health profile.
Understanding Oregano Oil Potency and Concentration
The difficulty in establishing a simple milligram dosage for oregano oil stems from the wide variability in product potency. The active compound largely responsible for OEO’s properties is Carvacrol, a phenol that occurs naturally in the plant. Commercial oregano oil products are standardized based on the percentage of Carvacrol they contain, which is the true measure of their strength.
Standardized supplements typically contain a Carvacrol concentration ranging from 50% to 85%. A product with 80% Carvacrol is significantly more potent than one with 50%, meaning a lower milligram dose of the higher-percentage oil would be equivalent in effect. The oil is sold in two main forms: pure essential oil and diluted preparations.
Pure essential oil is 100% OEO and extremely concentrated, while diluted liquid products often mix the essential oil with a carrier like olive or coconut oil. Capsules offer a more standardized dosage, typically listing the total milligrams of extract (e.g., 100 mg to 150 mg) and the guaranteed percentage of Carvacrol. Liquid drops require the user to calculate the concentration based on the number of drops and the manufacturer’s dilution ratio. Understanding these concentration differences is paramount, as an improperly measured dose of the pure essential oil can be caustic and irritating.
Establishing Standard Guidelines for Oral Consumption
For those opting for encapsulated products, a common starting range is between 100 mg and 150 mg of standardized extract, taken one to three times daily. Some therapeutic uses cite doses ranging from 200 mg to 400 mg per capsule, taken two or three times a day, but this higher range should be approached with caution.
When using the liquid essential oil form, which necessitates dilution, the typical starting recommendation is a very small amount, usually one to four drops. These drops must be mixed into a carrier liquid, such as a glass of water, juice, or a teaspoon of olive oil, to prevent irritation to the mucous membranes of the mouth and esophagus. This liquid dose is generally taken one to three times a day, often with meals to minimize the chance of stomach upset.
Most recommendations favor short-term, cyclical use rather than continuous consumption. For active use, a typical duration is between seven to fourteen days, followed by a break. These general guidelines are based on common practices and product labeling, but they do not constitute medical advice.
Safety Limits and Personal Dosage Adjustments
While no official toxicity limits have been established for oregano oil, overconsumption can cause significant digestive distress, including a burning sensation in the mouth or throat, stomach upset, nausea, or diarrhea. The potent nature of the oil means that even a slightly excessive dose can lead to gastrointestinal irritation. Always start with the lowest possible dose, such as a single diluted drop or one low-milligram capsule, to test individual sensitivity and tolerance.
Certain populations should exercise extreme caution or avoid OEO entirely due to potential risks. Oregano oil is considered possibly unsafe in medicinal amounts during pregnancy, as high doses may affect hormonal secretions and potentially cause miscarriage. Safety information is also lacking for breastfeeding mothers, making avoidance the safest choice.
Oregano oil may interact with certain medications by affecting the body’s clotting and blood sugar levels. Individuals taking blood thinners, such as warfarin or antiplatelet drugs, should avoid OEO because its compounds can slow blood clotting, significantly increasing the risk of bruising and bleeding. Similarly, OEO might lower blood sugar, meaning those on diabetes medications must monitor their glucose levels closely to prevent hypoglycemia. Furthermore, discontinue OEO use at least two weeks before any scheduled surgery to mitigate the risk of increased bleeding during the procedure.