Oil of Oregano and the Liver

Your liver is one of the largest and most important organs in your body, according to the Ohio State University Medical Center. Liver inflammation, also called hepatitis, can occur for a variety of reasons. Liver disease may endanger your health and life. Although oil of oregano has certain medicinal properties, there is no indication that this herbal substance plays a role in the health of your liver. Talk to your doctor before attempting to treat a liver condition with herbal products.

Conditions that may cause liver inflammation include viral and bacterial infections, parasites, and consuming excess amounts of medications, including acetaminophen. Eating poisonous mushrooms or drinking too much alcohol can damage your liver. Autoimmune disorders and inflammatory bowel disease may also threaten the health of your liver. Symptoms of liver inflammation include fatigue, jaundice, loss of appetite, fever, weight loss, nausea, itching and abdominal pain. A liver disorder may cause you to produce clay-colored stools and dark urine.

Oregano is a common herb that has a long history of medicinal use, including the treatment of spider bites, snake bites and respiratory problems. This herb grows wild in the higher elevations of many Mediterranean countries. Some people use oregano oil to treat yeast infections, although more research is necessary to determine the benefits and risks of this herbal oil. Oil of oregano contains antioxidants, although these substances do not necessarily provide health benefits, according to NYU Langone Medical Center.

Although oregano oil may not contain medicinal properties that affect the function of your liver, other herbs may pose a risk to this organ. Herbs that may be dangerous to the health of your liver include, but are not limited to, kava, comfrey, mistletoe, chaparral and senna, according to a report from the University of Hawaii. Herbs and supplements that have a reputation for treating liver disorders include American ginseng, dandelion, milk thistle, green tea, celery seed, grape seed, yarrow and turmeric, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, although the UMMC does not recommend taking these herbs for this purpose.

Oil of oregano is not a standard remedy for liver disorders. Although oregano in its herb form is safe for most people, the essential oil of herbs may be toxic or may cause allergic reactions. Herbs and other supplements may interact with some medications, making it important to talk to your doctor before taking these products, especially if you have a liver disorder or other serious health condition.