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What are the Different Oregano Oil Side Effects?

Felicia Dye
Felicia Dye

Oregano is a member of the mint family. The essential oil that is derived from this plant has been used to treat a wide range of conditions, such as venomous bites, bronchitis, and skin fungus. Although it has been used for centuries and continues to be used, there are oregano oil side effects that people should consider before using such a product. These include skin irritation, iron deficiency, and allergic reactions.

One of the first side effects of oregano oil that people should be especially aware of is death. Although it is not extremely common, according to James A. Duke, Ph.D., an herb authority, it is possible because many of the products marketed as oregano oil actually are not. Many of these products are thyme oil, which can be toxic and fatal to humans when it is ingested. For this reason, it is very important to have accurate information about the oil before using it.

One possible side effect is a headache.
One possible side effect is a headache.

Other oregano oil side effects exist even when the product is genuine. Pregnant women are advised not to use the oil. It is believed that consumption impairs the manner in which the body absorbs iron. If a person consumes the oil for an extended period, it is recommended that she take iron supplements to help prevent a deficiency.

Oregano oil is often described as spicy, both by taste and by scent. This is an indication of the potency of these products. A person should beware that consuming this oil without diluting it can lead to stomach irritation, such as nausea. If it is taken in its pure form, a person may also experience heartburn.

Undiluted oregano oil can cause nausea.
Undiluted oregano oil can cause nausea.

The ability to purify is one of the benefits of oregano oil. This process generally involves bodily toxins being released so they can be expelled from the body. As a result, side effects such as dizziness, headaches, and fatigue have been known to occur, especially when people do not drink a sufficient amount of water.

Care should be taken when using the product for topical treatment. Unsightly burns are one of the oregano oil side effects that can result from using undiluted products on the skin. Some people who make this mistake may only experience a burning or tingling sensation. Others may find that the area of the skin that came into contact with the oil darkens and dries before peeling off and leaving behind a dark mark. Skin burn can also be one of the oregano oil side effects if it is applied then a person is exposed to direct sunlight or ultraviolet (UV) rays from a tanning bed.

Some people are allergic to other herbs such as marjoram, basil, and thyme. When this is the case, those individuals are advised to avoid oregano oil. Otherwise, they may experience similar allergic reactions to those caused by other herbs.

Discussion Comments

anon1006841

So you people read the article. You see that it causes skin irritation, skin rashes, allergic reaction. The article has pictures of people clearly suffering. And you're like "yes, I will splash this all over my face and sensitive body parts" and then act surprised? Really?

anon948729

So there was a scam that lied and said to put it all over, which I did, which only burned it. For some reason. there are black marks and also my skin is very dry and cracked on my nose. Does anyone have abt home remedies that I can use? I need this ASAP.

anon290486

I got a severe lip rash and burning sensation after putting oil of oregano on my lips from a dropper I was using to ingest three drops of oil of oregano internally. Is this also a problem you've encountered?

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    • One possible side effect is a headache.
      By: Picture-Factory
      One possible side effect is a headache.
    • Undiluted oregano oil can cause nausea.
      By: Adam Gregor
      Undiluted oregano oil can cause nausea.
    • One concern regarding oregano oil is products falsely labeled as such.
      By: Okea
      One concern regarding oregano oil is products falsely labeled as such.
    • Oregano might cause dizziness.
      By: 9nong
      Oregano might cause dizziness.
    • After applying oregano oil users should avoid using tanning beds, as it increases the risk of getting a sunburn.
      By: Rido
      After applying oregano oil users should avoid using tanning beds, as it increases the risk of getting a sunburn.