In recent years, oregano oil has become more and more popular for use in humans. It is believed to have immune supportive and antimicrobial properties. This gives the essential oil a wide variety of different uses for humans.
Lots of owners want to use more natural remedies for their dogs and this has led to owners using oregano oil for their dogs too. But is oregano oil safe for dogs? This article will explore the usage and possible benefits of oregano oil for dogs.
Important: Dog owners should bear in mind that some essential oils can be toxic to dogs. Care must always be taken when using them around the home. It is always advised to speak to a vet before you start using any sort of essential oil in any way for your dog.
What Is Oregano Oil?
Oregano oil, also known as oil of oregano, is an essential oil that is extracted from the flowering tops and the leaves of the oregano plant, Origanum vulgare. It is believed to contain many active compounds which give it medicinal properties.
It is extracted through steam distillation or solvent extraction methods. Two main types exist. Oregano oil extract is a diluted form that can be used orally in humans, and oregano essential oil is a concentrated form for aromatherapy or external use.
More research is needed on the subject, but it is believed that oregano oil can be used for pain relief, to fight infections, manage tricky skin conditions, and aid in the maintenance of a healthy digestive system. It is also used as a flavoring in cooking and can be included in home-cooked recipes.
Potential Uses
- Antimicrobial: It has been suggested that oregano oil has antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial properties meaning it could potentially aid in fighting conditions such as ear and skin infections.1
- Antioxidants: Oregano oil contains thymol and carvacrol. These are potent antioxidants that are believed to protect cells from free radical damage.2 Carvacrol is thought to support beneficial gut bacteria and fight harmful organisms in the gastrointestinal tract.
- Anti-inflammatory: There have been suggestions that some compounds in oregano oil have anti-inflammatory properties. They may aid in pain relief and the reduction of inflammation. This may give dogs suffering from allergies and other conditions some relief.
Oregano oil must be stored correctly to maintain its potency and prevent it from going bad. It is advised to store it at room temperature. It must be kept in a dark glass bottle, away from direct sunlight. Glass is preferable over plastic as plastics can leak chemicals into the oils. An airtight lid should always be used. A bottle with a screw cap and a dropper is ideal as this prevents leakage and minimizes air exposure. It must be kept in a cool dark place away from heat sources such as radiators. Do not store in humid rooms such as the bathroom.
It is possible to refrigerate oregano oil. This is thought to extend its shelf life, however, it will need to be taken from the fridge at least 12 hours before usage. This is to allow for it to heat up, so it is the right consistency to dispense. Always keep all essential oils well away from children and animals.
How Is Oregano Oil Given?
Oregano oil comes as an essential oil extract. It can be sold in a concentrated form. The concentration varies massively and can be from 2% to 50%. It can be bought as liquid drops; these are often mixed with carrier oils such as coconut oil or olive oil. Some companies make it into tablets or capsules.
In humans, oregano oil can be mixed with a carrier oil and applied topically. It can be given orally in a highly diluted form, and it can be diffused. Before considering any of the above methods, you must discuss safe and effective therapies with a vet.
Even if the essential oil has been diluted, it is still vital that only veterinary-recommended doses are used, based on your dog’s general health condition and weight.
If you need to speak with a vet but can't get to one, head over to PangoVet. It's an online service where you can talk to a vet online and get the personalized advice you need for your pet — all at an affordable price!
Potential Side Effects of Oregano Oil
As with all essential oils, there are potential side effects owners need to be aware of.
Even if the oil has been correctly diluted and the dose prescribed by a vet, some dogs can still experience adverse effects.
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Skin irritation
- Allergies
If you see any of the clinical signs mentioned or have any other concerns that your dog may be having a reaction, consult a vet immediately. Stop the use of the oil while you wait to hear from a vet.
There is a risk that oregano oil may interact with specific medications, this is why it is so important to discuss usage with a vet before starting it. If your dog has pre-existing health conditions this may also mean the use of oregano oil is contraindicated.
Undiluted oregano oil can be toxic for dogs. It can cause skin irritation and internal organ damage. It must never be used in an undiluted form.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which dogs should avoid oregano oil?
Dogs that have pre-existing health conditions, are already on medication, have a history of seizures, or are very young puppies or elderly dogs, should not be using oregano oil. It should be avoided in pregnant and nursing dogs as well.
Should I buy pure or diluted oregano oil?
Oregano oil in its pure form is very concentrated and has strong flavors. It is usually sold mixed with a carrier oil such as olive oil or coconut oil. Pure oregano oil is often better value for money but then needs to be diluted.
Is oregano oil organic?
Oregano oil can be sold in organic and non-organic forms. Good quality brands use organic oil. This will be obvious on the packaging but if you are unsure, you can ask the manufacturer.
Conclusion
Oregano oil has potentially promising health benefits for humans. However, there is limited research on the effectiveness and safety of oregano oil for dogs. It currently has no proven benefits, meaning there is no scientific evidence supporting its safety or effectiveness for treating any canine health issues.
Use must be with extreme caution and only ever under the instruction of a vet. Responsible use with proper guidance is important to avoid potentially catastrophic adverse effects.
Featured Image Credit: Madeleine Steinbach, Shutterstock
8 Responses
My dog has horrible yeast infection. We’ve tried the shot and pills to help her from itching to no avail. She has huge open sores. We’ve been to the vets. They say they have nothing else to treat her with. Could this help?
Hi Jean. I’m so sorry to hear that your dog is going through this! It sounds really tough for both of you. While oil of oregano has some antifungal properties, it’s very potent and should only be used cautiously, especially on pets. It can be irritating to their skin and digestive system if not properly diluted. I would strongly recommend checking with your vet before trying it, as they might have other options or specialists they can refer you to. If the yeast infections are persistent, sometimes a more in-depth approach involving diet changes or a different type of treatment may be needed. I hope your pup gets some relief soon!
Cefpodoxime proxetil has helped heal the open sores on my dogs paws from his excessive licking. Maybe ask your vet if this is something they recommend. We’ve tried everything and this is the only medication that is helping.
Thank you for your thoughtful suggestion for Jean, Amber — that's very kind of you! Jean, since your current vet has said there's nothing more they can do, it might be worth seeking a second opinion, especially as there could still be another option to explore. If you'd like to talk it through with one of our vets, you're very welcome to book a time that works for you using this link: https://pangovet.com/schedule-appointment/.
My Bully was like that from his puppy stage till he was 3 years old.. even had gunky ears with infections all the time.. I read about Pre and pro biotics started him on Pick peanut pre pro biotics and after just 4 weeks everything cleared his ears and skin ulcers were completely gone ..it was like a miracle…. that has been 2.5 years now ..I have told all my friends about this pill and it is helping their dogs too . the company is pickpeanut.com check it out…hope it helps your dog
What brand oil of oregano do you recommend?
Dear Patricia,
thank you for your question. Rather than focusing on a specific brand, it would be better to focus on the type and concentration of the oregano oil and which other oil was used as a carrier. Preferably you should look for organic oregano oil.
Please just keep in mind, that it is important to consult this with your veterinarian before offering any treatment or remedy to your dog, as their condition needs to be considered to find the appropriate product and treatment.
Best wishes
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