We evaluated the effectiveness of oregano oil, particularly its main component carvacrol, against urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC). To do this, we screened 79 essential oils for their ability to inhibit biofilm formation, a major factor in UPEC's resistance to treatment, especially in cases involving catheters.
Our findings showed that both oregano oil and thyme red oil effectively reduced biofilm formation by UPEC when used at very low concentrations. Additionally, we observed that carvacrol and thymol—the key components of these oils—impacted UPEC virulence. They not only decreased the production of fimbriae, which bacteria use to attach to surfaces, but also hampered the bacteria's swarming motility and hemagglutination.
In further tests, UPEC was more susceptible to being killed by human blood when carvacrol and thymol were present. This suggests that these natural compounds could play a valuable role in reducing both the biofilm-forming capability and the virulence of UPEC, presenting a promising avenue for UTI prevention and treatment in the context of rising antibiotic resistance.
Read More
9
Oregano oil's antibacterial potential
Essential Oil of Fractionated Oregano as Motility Inhibitor of Bacteria Associated with Urinary Tract Infections.
We aimed to explore how concentrated fractions of Mexican oregano essential oil could impact bacteria linked to urinary tract infections. These infections are often caused by motile Gram-negative bacteria, which use flagella as a critical factor for moving toward the urinary tract, where they can cause issues.
Our analysis included testing the growth inhibition and motility reduction of key bacterial strains. We found that these bacteria showed resistance to several antibiotics, with one strain resistant to 8 out of 12 tested medications. However, oregano essential oil demonstrated promising results, significantly reducing both bacterial growth and their ability to move.
Notably, Fraction 4 of the oregano showed the most significant growth inhibition, with minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values ranging from just 0.002 to 23.7 mg/mL. The motility of the bacteria dropped impressively—between 92-81% for one strain, 90-83% for another, and a staggering 100-8.9% for a third strain. These results suggest that the high levels of Carvacrol and Thymol in oregano, especially due to their synergistic effects, could contribute to enhanced antibacterial properties.
Overall, this research indicates that oregano oil might be a valuable alternative or supplemental treatment for managing urinary tract infections, particularly against antibiotic-resistant strains.
Read More
9
Oregano oil combats resistant UTIs
Susceptibility of Multidrug-Resistant and Biofilm-Forming Uropathogens to Mexican Oregano Essential Oil.
We examined the potential of Mexican oregano essential oil as a treatment for urinary tract infections (UTIs), particularly focusing on its ability to combat multidrug-resistant bacteria. In our study, we tested various essential oil samples against different bacteria strains isolated from clinical UTI cases.
We found that several of these bacterial strains were resistant to standard antibiotics and could also form biofilms, making infections particularly challenging to treat. However, our results showed that the essential oil exhibited considerable antimicrobial properties, effectively targeting these troublesome bacteria.
The oil's antibacterial effect was notably strong against certain strains, while others showed more resistance. Specifically, we observed that some bacteria were susceptible to the oregano oil at concentrations less than 200 mg/L, while others required substantially higher concentrations to achieve similar effects. The essential oil demonstrated a potential alternative treatment option for UTI patients dealing with multidrug-resistant infections, particularly as antibiotic resistance grows.
Overall, our research highlights the promise of using natural substances like oregano essential oil in addressing difficult-to-treat infections, offering hope for improved therapeutic strategies in the future.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
9
Effective against infection
4 people found this helpful
Oregano Oil by Nature's Way assisted in alleviating an infection in my small intestines. It is a splendid product when necessary.
Read More
9
Relief from UTI
2 people found this helpful
I use these for when I sense a urinary tract infection brewing and they work wonders! This past winter, I suffered a terrible respiratory infection, and nothing seemed to help until I began taking oregano oil capsules. Within a week, I was nearly fully recovered. I will always have a bottle in my medicine cabinet.
Read More
6
Good maintenance support
I find this a decent product, containing a high level of carvacrol and oregano oil per serving. Although the transparent capsules aren’t soft gels, the price makes it quite reasonable. I recommend this product as a way to maintain a healthy urinary tract.
We aimed to explore how concentrated fractions of Mexican oregano essential oil could impact bacteria linked to urinary tract infections. These infections are often caused by motile Gram-negative bacteria, which use flagella as a critical factor for moving toward the urinary tract, where they can cause issues.
Our analysis included testing the growth inhibition and motility reduction of key bacterial strains. We found that these bacteria showed resistance to several antibiotics, with one strain resistant to 8 out of 12 tested medications. However, oregano essential oil demonstrated promising results, significantly reducing both bacterial growth and their ability to move.
Notably, Fraction 4 of the oregano showed the most significant growth inhibition, with minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values ranging from just 0.002 to 23.7 mg/mL. The motility of the bacteria dropped impressively—between 92-81% for one strain, 90-83% for another, and a staggering 100-8.9% for a third strain. These results suggest that the high levels of Carvacrol and Thymol in oregano, especially due to their synergistic effects, could contribute to enhanced antibacterial properties.
Overall, this research indicates that oregano oil might be a valuable alternative or supplemental treatment for managing urinary tract infections, particularly against antibiotic-resistant strains.
Read More
9
Oregano's potential against UTIs
Identification of essential oils with strong activity against stationary phase uropathogenic Escherichia coli.
We delved into how oregano essential oil works against urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by Escherichia coli, particularly focusing on the stationary phase of the bacteria where persister cells are prevalent. In our investigation, we tested 140 different essential oils and identified several that effectively combat stationary phase E. coli, with oregano standing out.
At a concentration of just 0.5%, oregano showcased stronger action than a known persister drug, tosufloxacin. Alongside oregano, we discovered other essential oils like Allspice and Cinnamon that also effectively eradicated E. coli after a few days of exposure. Notably, oregano performed exceptionally well when tested in combination with common UTI antibiotics. The combination not only eradicated all stationary phase E. coli cells but also enhanced the effectiveness of certain antibiotics like quinolones.
These findings illuminate oregano's potential as a powerful ally in treating persistent UTIs, possibly paving the way for more effective treatment strategies in the future. Overall, the results emphasize the need for exploring alternative treatments in the face of antibiotic resistance.
Read More
9
Oregano oil combats resistant UTIs
Susceptibility of Multidrug-Resistant and Biofilm-Forming Uropathogens to Mexican Oregano Essential Oil.
We examined the potential of Mexican oregano essential oil as a treatment for urinary tract infections (UTIs), particularly focusing on its ability to combat multidrug-resistant bacteria. In our study, we tested various essential oil samples against different bacteria strains isolated from clinical UTI cases.
We found that several of these bacterial strains were resistant to standard antibiotics and could also form biofilms, making infections particularly challenging to treat. However, our results showed that the essential oil exhibited considerable antimicrobial properties, effectively targeting these troublesome bacteria.
The oil's antibacterial effect was notably strong against certain strains, while others showed more resistance. Specifically, we observed that some bacteria were susceptible to the oregano oil at concentrations less than 200 mg/L, while others required substantially higher concentrations to achieve similar effects. The essential oil demonstrated a potential alternative treatment option for UTI patients dealing with multidrug-resistant infections, particularly as antibiotic resistance grows.
Overall, our research highlights the promise of using natural substances like oregano essential oil in addressing difficult-to-treat infections, offering hope for improved therapeutic strategies in the future.
Read More
9
Oregano oil fights UTI bacteria
Carvacrol-rich oregano oil and thymol-rich thyme red oil inhibit biofilm formation and the virulence of uropathogenic Escherichia coli.
We evaluated the effectiveness of oregano oil, particularly its main component carvacrol, against urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC). To do this, we screened 79 essential oils for their ability to inhibit biofilm formation, a major factor in UPEC's resistance to treatment, especially in cases involving catheters.
Our findings showed that both oregano oil and thyme red oil effectively reduced biofilm formation by UPEC when used at very low concentrations. Additionally, we observed that carvacrol and thymol—the key components of these oils—impacted UPEC virulence. They not only decreased the production of fimbriae, which bacteria use to attach to surfaces, but also hampered the bacteria's swarming motility and hemagglutination.
In further tests, UPEC was more susceptible to being killed by human blood when carvacrol and thymol were present. This suggests that these natural compounds could play a valuable role in reducing both the biofilm-forming capability and the virulence of UPEC, presenting a promising avenue for UTI prevention and treatment in the context of rising antibiotic resistance.
Read More
User Reviews
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 3 Reviews
8.5
All Reviews
Positive Reviews
Negative Reviews
9
Effective against infection
4 people found this helpful
Oregano Oil by Nature's Way assisted in alleviating an infection in my small intestines. It is a splendid product when necessary.
Read More
9
Relief from UTI
2 people found this helpful
I use these for when I sense a urinary tract infection brewing and they work wonders! This past winter, I suffered a terrible respiratory infection, and nothing seemed to help until I began taking oregano oil capsules. Within a week, I was nearly fully recovered. I will always have a bottle in my medicine cabinet.
Read More
6
Good maintenance support
I find this a decent product, containing a high level of carvacrol and oregano oil per serving. Although the transparent capsules aren’t soft gels, the price makes it quite reasonable. I recommend this product as a way to maintain a healthy urinary tract.
Read More
Frequently Asked Questions
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection that can affect any part of the urinary system, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra. The most common type of UTI is a bladder infection, known as cystitis, which can cause uncomfortable symptoms such as a frequent urge to urinate, a burning sensation during urination, and cloudy or strong-smelling urine. In more severe cases, a UTI can ascend to the kidneys, potentially leading to more serious complications. While UTIs can occur in anyone, they are particularly prevalent among women due to anatomical differences that make it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder.
The main cause of UTIs is the introduction of bacteria, often from the digestive tract, into the urethra. Risk factors may include sexual activity, certain types of birth control, and urinary retention. Treatment typically involves antibiotics, and in many cases, symptoms may begin to resolve within a few days of starting the medication. Staying well-hydrated, wiping front to back after using the restroom, and urinating after intercourse are some preventive measures to help reduce the risk of developing a UTI.
Oregano oil supplements are nutritional products derived from the leaves and flowers of the oregano plant, primarily Origanum vulgare. Known for their potent antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, these supplements are often used to support immune health, aid digestion, and combat infections. Oregano oil is rich in compounds like carvacrol and thymol, which are believed to contribute to its therapeutic effects. They come in various forms, including softgels, capsules, and liquid extracts, making it easy for anyone to incorporate them into their daily routine.
When considering oregano oil supplements, it's important to choose high-quality products that provide standardized amounts of active ingredients. The recommended dosage can vary based on individual health needs, so it’s always wise to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen. Overall, oregano oil supplements can be a convenient way to harness the health benefits associated with this aromatic herb, but users should remain informed about potential interactions and side effects, particularly regarding dosage and individual health conditions.
While oregano oil is often praised for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, the scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness in treating urinary tract infections (UTIs) is limited. Oregano contains compounds like carvacrol and thymol, which may exhibit some antimicrobial properties. However, most of the research on oregano oil has focused on its general antimicrobial effects rather than specifically on UTIs. Therefore, relying solely on oregano oil supplements for treatment may not be advisable.
If you're experiencing symptoms of a UTI, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Standard treatments often involve antibiotics, which are specifically designed to target the bacteria causing the infection. While some people may choose to incorporate oregano oil as a supplement in an effort to support overall health, it shouldn't replace traditional medical interventions for UTIs. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.
Based on user reviews, many individuals report seeing results from using oregano oil for urinary tract infections within approximately a week. One user mentioned, "I use these for when I sense a urinary tract infection brewing and they work wonders!" indicating a positive response shortly after beginning the supplementation Read Review. Furthermore, users highlight that oregano oil not only assists in managing urinary tract issues but also contributes to overall health, with several recommending it as a preventative measure.
Oregano essential oil is gaining attention as a potential natural remedy for urinary tract infections (UTIs), particularly in the context of rising antibiotic resistance. Research has demonstrated that oregano oil, largely due to its active compounds like carvacrol and thymol, shows significant antibacterial properties against common UTI pathogens such as Escherichia coli. In one study, oregano was found to effectively inhibit the growth of stationary phase E. coli, outperforming traditional persister drugs. Moreover, when combined with conventional antibiotics, it enhanced their effectiveness, which may be crucial for treating persistent UTIs [2].
Additionally, oregano oil has been tested against multidrug-resistant strains and showed promise in disrupting biofilm formation—one of the main challenges in UTI treatment [4]. The study revealed that oregano oil could significantly reduce the virulence of uropathogenic E. coli, making it a compelling alternative or supplemental treatment, particularly for infections resistant to standard antibiotics [3]. With its ability to target both the bacteria's mobility and its biofilm-forming capacity, oregano oil appears to be a hopeful solution for individuals suffering from recurrent UTIs [1].
Based on user reviews, many individuals have reported significant improvements in their health after using oregano oil. One user noted that the product was instrumental in alleviating an infection in their small intestines, highlighting its effectiveness in targeting internal infections Read Review. Additionally, users frequently mention its benefits for respiratory issues, with one reviewer sharing that they experienced dramatic recovery within a week of adding oregano oil to their regimen during a severe respiratory infection Read Review.
Furthermore, there are several accounts of users relying on oregano oil as a preventative measure for urinary tract health. One reviewer expressed that they have found it to be a reasonable option for maintaining overall urinary tract wellness, reinforcing the idea that this supplement can be beneficial beyond immediate treatment needs Read Review. However, it is important to note that individual results can vary, and different users may experience different levels of success.
Users have reported varying experiences when combining oregano oil with other supplements for managing urinary tract infections (UTIs). A number of reviewers highlighted that they use oregano oil effectively as a standalone remedy, especially when they sense the onset of a UTI, noting that it "works wonders" in alleviating symptoms Read Review. Moreover, some individuals recommend its use as part of a broader health regimen due to its beneficial properties, particularly in maintaining urinary tract health, suggesting a positive synergy when paired with other supplements focused on overall wellness Read Review.
Interestingly, while specific feedback about precise combinations with other supplements was lacking, users seem to appreciate oregano oil's comprehensive effects on various types of infections, including respiratory issues. This suggests its potential versatility when integrated with additional health supplements aimed at supporting immune and urinary health Read Review. However, as with any supplement regimen, it’s advisable for users to consult healthcare professionals to tailor their combinations effectively, as individual responses can vary.
Based on user reviews, it appears that many individuals find oregano oil supplements to be effective in treating urinary tract infections (UTIs). One user specifically mentioned the oregano oil capsules working wonders when they felt a UTI brewing, suggesting that they rely on the supplements as a preventive measure or early treatment (Read Review). Another user highlighted the high levels of carvacrol and oregano oil per serving in their product, indicating that potency could play a significant role in the effectiveness of the supplement for maintaining urinary tract health (Read Review).
However, the reviews do not provide specific dosage recommendations for these supplements in relation to urinary tract infections. It is clear that users have confidence in the product's efficacy, but exact dosing may depend on individual circumstances and should ideally be discussed with a healthcare provider.
9
Relief from UTI
2 people found this helpful
I use these for when I sense a urinary tract infection brewing and they work wonders! This past winter, I suffered a terrible respiratory infection, and nothing seemed to help until I began taking oregano oil capsules. Within a week, I was nearly fully recovered. I will always have a bottle in my medicine cabinet.
9
Effective against infection
4 people found this helpful
Oregano Oil by Nature's Way assisted in alleviating an infection in my small intestines. It is a splendid product when necessary.
6
Good maintenance support
I find this a decent product, containing a high level of carvacrol and oregano oil per serving. Although the transparent capsules aren’t soft gels, the price makes it quite reasonable. I recommend this product as a way to maintain a healthy urinary tract.
9
Oregano's potential against UTIs
Identification of essential oils with strong activity against stationary phase uropathogenic Escherichia coli.
We delved into how oregano essential oil works against urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by Escherichia coli, particularly focusing on the stationary phase of the bacteria where persister cells are prevalent. In our investigation, we tested 140 different essential oils and identified several that effectively combat stationary phase E. coli, with oregano standing out.
At a concentration of just 0.5%, oregano showcased stronger action than a known persister drug, tosufloxacin. Alongside oregano, we discovered other essential oils like Allspice and Cinnamon that also effectively eradicated E. coli after a few days of exposure. Notably, oregano performed exceptionally well when tested in combination with common UTI antibiotics. The combination not only eradicated all stationary phase E. coli cells but also enhanced the effectiveness of certain antibiotics like quinolones.
These findings illuminate oregano's potential as a powerful ally in treating persistent UTIs, possibly paving the way for more effective treatment strategies in the future. Overall, the results emphasize the need for exploring alternative treatments in the face of antibiotic resistance.
9
Oregano oil fights UTI bacteria
Carvacrol-rich oregano oil and thymol-rich thyme red oil inhibit biofilm formation and the virulence of uropathogenic Escherichia coli.
We evaluated the effectiveness of oregano oil, particularly its main component carvacrol, against urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused by uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC). To do this, we screened 79 essential oils for their ability to inhibit biofilm formation, a major factor in UPEC's resistance to treatment, especially in cases involving catheters.
Our findings showed that both oregano oil and thyme red oil effectively reduced biofilm formation by UPEC when used at very low concentrations. Additionally, we observed that carvacrol and thymol—the key components of these oils—impacted UPEC virulence. They not only decreased the production of fimbriae, which bacteria use to attach to surfaces, but also hampered the bacteria's swarming motility and hemagglutination.
In further tests, UPEC was more susceptible to being killed by human blood when carvacrol and thymol were present. This suggests that these natural compounds could play a valuable role in reducing both the biofilm-forming capability and the virulence of UPEC, presenting a promising avenue for UTI prevention and treatment in the context of rising antibiotic resistance.
9
Oregano oil combats resistant UTIs
Susceptibility of Multidrug-Resistant and Biofilm-Forming Uropathogens to Mexican Oregano Essential Oil.
We examined the potential of Mexican oregano essential oil as a treatment for urinary tract infections (UTIs), particularly focusing on its ability to combat multidrug-resistant bacteria. In our study, we tested various essential oil samples against different bacteria strains isolated from clinical UTI cases.
We found that several of these bacterial strains were resistant to standard antibiotics and could also form biofilms, making infections particularly challenging to treat. However, our results showed that the essential oil exhibited considerable antimicrobial properties, effectively targeting these troublesome bacteria.
The oil's antibacterial effect was notably strong against certain strains, while others showed more resistance. Specifically, we observed that some bacteria were susceptible to the oregano oil at concentrations less than 200 mg/L, while others required substantially higher concentrations to achieve similar effects. The essential oil demonstrated a potential alternative treatment option for UTI patients dealing with multidrug-resistant infections, particularly as antibiotic resistance grows.
Overall, our research highlights the promise of using natural substances like oregano essential oil in addressing difficult-to-treat infections, offering hope for improved therapeutic strategies in the future.
9
Oregano oil's antibacterial potential
Essential Oil of Fractionated Oregano as Motility Inhibitor of Bacteria Associated with Urinary Tract Infections.
We aimed to explore how concentrated fractions of Mexican oregano essential oil could impact bacteria linked to urinary tract infections. These infections are often caused by motile Gram-negative bacteria, which use flagella as a critical factor for moving toward the urinary tract, where they can cause issues.
Our analysis included testing the growth inhibition and motility reduction of key bacterial strains. We found that these bacteria showed resistance to several antibiotics, with one strain resistant to 8 out of 12 tested medications. However, oregano essential oil demonstrated promising results, significantly reducing both bacterial growth and their ability to move.
Notably, Fraction 4 of the oregano showed the most significant growth inhibition, with minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) values ranging from just 0.002 to 23.7 mg/mL. The motility of the bacteria dropped impressively—between 92-81% for one strain, 90-83% for another, and a staggering 100-8.9% for a third strain. These results suggest that the high levels of Carvacrol and Thymol in oregano, especially due to their synergistic effects, could contribute to enhanced antibacterial properties.
Overall, this research indicates that oregano oil might be a valuable alternative or supplemental treatment for managing urinary tract infections, particularly against antibiotic-resistant strains.
References
Sánchez García E, Torres-Alvarez C, Morales Sosa EG, Pimentel-González M, Villarreal Treviño L, et al. Essential Oil of Fractionated Oregano as Motility Inhibitor of Bacteria Associated with Urinary Tract Infections. Antibiotics (Basel). 2024;13. doi:10.3390/antibiotics13070665
Xiao S, Cui P, Shi W, Zhang Y. Identification of essential oils with strong activity against stationary phase uropathogenic Escherichia coli. Discov Med. 2019;28:179.
Zapién-Chavarría KA, Plascencia-Terrazas A, Venegas-Ortega MG, Varillas-Torres M, Rivera-Chavira BE, et al. Susceptibility of Multidrug-Resistant and Biofilm-Forming Uropathogens to Mexican Oregano Essential Oil. Antibiotics (Basel). 2019;8. doi:10.3390/antibiotics8040186
Lee JH, Kim YG, Lee J. Carvacrol-rich oregano oil and thymol-rich thyme red oil inhibit biofilm formation and the virulence of uropathogenic Escherichia coli. J Appl Microbiol. 2017;123:1420. doi:10.1111/jam.13602