You’ve tried diets, cleanses, probiotics, and cooking with coconut oil, but you’re still struggling to beat candida overgrowth. If cutting carbs and sugar isn’t enough to beat the itching and bloating, it might be time to step it up a notch. Introducing: oregano oil. This potent anti-microbial, anti-fungal herbal oil is an easy-to-use candida cleanse agent that can help you heal your microbiome from candida overgrowth. In this article, we explore how to use oregano oil for candida.

What is oregano oil?

Oregano oil, also known as oil of oregano, is a robust anti-microbial agent derived from the oregano plant. Yes, that oregano: the same herb we use to season our pasta and pizza is also a well-known natural antibiotic and anti-fungal. In fact, oregano is so effective at fighting the growth of fungus and bacteria that one 2019 study concluded it had promise as an all-natural food preservative.

In general, oregano supplements contain oregano oil, a plant extract synthesized by crushing or soaking the leaves in a solvent (usually alcohol). This process extracts the plant’s active components for safe ingestion.

Oregano extract or oregano oil is different from oregano essential oil, which is a highly concentrated distillation of the plant’s volatile compounds. Essential oils are typically created using a process called steam distillation.

Never consume oregano essential oil. It is extremely caustic and can be toxic. However, oregano extract oil is generally well-tolerated and safe to consume in the appropriate dosage.

Oregano oil for candida growth

In addition to boosting the immune system and soothing common candida overgrowth symptoms like diarrhea and bloating, oregano oil and its active compounds help kill unwanted candida in the G.I. tract.

Anti-Fungal Activity

Candida albicans, the yeast species responsible for candida overgrowth, is a common fungus that grows throughout the human body, including our intestines. In healthy amounts, it helps us break down carbohydrates and sugars during the digestion process. In unhealthy amounts, it can cause painful yeast infections, uncomfortable rashes, digestive issues, and even weight gain.

Thymol and carvacrol, two major active anti-fungal compounds found in oregano oil, have both been shown to target and kill candida albicans. Additionally, studies show that thymol is more effective at killing drug-resistant strains of candida albicans than traditional anti-fungals like fluconazole.

Biofilm Buster

One of the reasons candida overgrowth is so difficult to treat is the presence of stubborn candida biofilms. A biofilm is a microbial community of interconnected cells that forms a slimy, mucus-like substance that helps the microbes adhere to a surface. Many microbes, including beneficial gut bacteria, form biofilms to protect themselves from dehydration, antibiotic exposure, immune system activation, or physical removal.

Unfortunately, candida biofilms are exceptionally good at resisting traditional anti-fungals and can keep candida colonies alive despite repeated attempts to remove them. However, the thymol and carvacrol found in oregano oil actively disrupt candida biofilms, not only killing off active cells, but significantly reducing biofilm mass and metabolic activity.

Powerful Antioxidant

One of the major symptoms of candida overgrowth is inflammation. It starts in the gut; when candida biofilms anchor themselves to the intestinal wall, they produce a toxin called candidalysin which causes damage to the surrounding epithelial cells.

Not only does this damage trigger changes in tissue permeability (often resulting in dysbiosis and “leaky gut”), the autoimmune activation and inflammation can cause serious digestive issues including IBS and chronic diarrhea.

Fortunately, the antioxidants found in oregano oil can help soothe this inflammation, while contributing to candida die-off.

Oregano oil side effects and who should skip it

Oregano oil is usually well tolerated at label doses. However, the common side effects are heartburn or stomach upset, a strong oregano taste or burps, and loose stools.

Skip it, or ask your provider first, if you:

• Are pregnant or nursing
• Take blood thinners
• Are allergic to plants in the mint family (like basil, mint, sage, or thyme)
• Have a stomach ulcer or bad reflux

Some people also feel worse for a few days when they start antimicrobial herbs (headache, fatigue, more bloating). If that happens, drop to a lower dose. If that doesn't help, stop taking it and talk with a practitioner.

Bloating, gas, and cravings have lots of causes. Take the free 2-minute Digestion Quick Check to see where your gut stands.

Where to buy oregano for candida?

Looking to beat candida once and for all? Dr. Eric Snow’s Gut Rescue contains a 4-in-1 anti-microbial herbal blend that targets candida biofilms. Packed with 100% organic oregano, clove, wild bear garlic, and olive leaf, Gut Rescue breaks through tough biofilms and helps cleanse the digestive tract of harmful microbes. Additionally, mineral-rich Aquamin® Red Algae fights intestinal inflammation and helps restore integrity of the gut lining.

Want the full plan? Get Dr. Eric Snow's Gut Rescue as part of our Candida Support Protocol.

Oregano oil for candida FAQs

Does oregano oil kill candida?

In lab studies, yes. Carvacrol and thymol, the main compounds in oregano oil, stop Candida albicans from growing and break up its biofilm. Studies in people are limited, so most practitioners use oregano as one part of a larger gut plan.

How do you take oregano oil for candida?

Take oregano oil with food to avoid heartburn. Capsules are easier on your mouth and throat than liquid drops. Never swallow undiluted oregano essential oil.

How much oregano oil should I take for candida?

Follow the label on your product. Doses vary quite a bit between brands, so start at the low end and work your way up as needed.

How long should you take oregano oil for candida?

There's no research-backed timeline. Practitioners usually use antimicrobial herbs for a set number of weeks and then reassess. Our candida FAQ covers what else to do alongside it.

Is oregano oil the same as oregano essential oil?

No. Oregano essential oil is highly concentrated and shouldn't be swallowed undiluted. Oil of oregano supplements are diluted or packed into capsules for safe use by mouth.

Can I take oregano oil and probiotics together?

Many practitioners pair them but space them a few hours apart. Ask your practitioner about the best timing for your case.

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Candida

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