Long before supplements came in neat little softgels, people around the world turned to plants as part of their daily wellness routines. Two of the most enduring are oregano and black seed. Today, oil of oregano and black seed oil are popular again, often taken together. Here's an honest guide to what they are, what the science says, and how to use them safely.
What is oil of oregano?
Oil of oregano comes from the leaves of the oregano plant (Origanum vulgare), the same herb you might sprinkle on pizza, but in a far more concentrated form. Its best-known natural compounds are carvacrol and thymol, which give oregano its warm, peppery character.
Oregano has a long history in traditional Mediterranean wellness practices. Today, people often take it as part of a seasonal or daily wellness routine.
What is black seed oil?
Black seed oil is pressed from the tiny black seeds of Nigella sativa, a flowering plant native to parts of Southwest Asia, the Middle East and North Africa. It has been treasured for centuries in traditional practices across these regions, where it's sometimes called the "seed of blessing."
Its key natural compound is thymoquinone, which has antioxidant properties.
What does the research say?
Both plants are the subject of plenty of scientific interest, but it's important to be clear about what that research actually shows:
- Oregano oil: carvacrol and thymol have shown antioxidant and antimicrobial activity in laboratory studies (in test tubes and petri dishes). That's interesting, but lab results don't automatically translate to the same effects in the human body, and high-quality human studies are still limited.
- Black seed oil: there have been more human studies on black seed than on oregano oil, looking at a range of everyday wellness markers. Some results are encouraging, but many studies were small, and findings are mixed. More large, well-designed research is needed.
So both are best thought of as traditional botanicals that may support your overall wellness routine, not as cures or replacements for medical care. Anyone promising they'll "kill" infections or replace medicine is going far beyond the evidence.
Why take them together?
Many people like combining the two because they come from different wellness traditions and offer different natural compounds (carvacrol from oregano, thymoquinone from black seed) in a single, simple daily step. A combined softgel also avoids the strong taste of the liquid oils, which can be intense.
How to take them
- Follow the label. Strength varies a lot between products, so always use the serving size directed on your product.
- Take with food to reduce the chance of an upset stomach.
- Never take undiluted oregano essential oil by mouth. Liquid oregano oil is extremely strong and can irritate your mouth, throat and stomach. Softgels or properly diluted products made for internal use are the safer choice.
- Be consistent, and pay attention to how your body responds.
Safety: who should be careful
Natural doesn't always mean right for everyone. Talk to your healthcare provider before taking oil of oregano or black seed oil if you:
- Are pregnant or breastfeeding. These are not recommended during pregnancy.
- Take blood thinners or have a bleeding disorder, or have surgery coming up
- Take medication for diabetes or blood pressure. Black seed may affect blood sugar and blood pressure.
- Are allergic to oregano or related plants in the mint family, such as thyme, basil, mint, sage or lavender
- Have a medical condition or take any regular medication
Possible side effects include stomach upset, heartburn or a rash. Stop taking it if you notice any reaction.
And remember: if you're feeling unwell, have a fever that won't go away, or symptoms that are getting worse, please see a doctor. Supplements are not a substitute for medical care.
Our Oil of Oregano with Black Seed Oil
Our Oil of Oregano with Black Seed Oil brings both botanicals together in one convenient softgel:
- Made with 4X strength carvacrol and thymoquinone
- 100% plant-based and non-GMO
- Made in the USA
- 150 softgels per pack
- Designed for women and men to support the body's natural defenses as part of a daily routine*
Find it in our Immunity collection.
The bottom line
Oil of oregano and black seed oil are time-honored botanicals with a rich history and growing scientific interest. They can be a simple, natural addition to a healthy lifestyle built on good sleep, nourishing food, movement and regular check-ups. Use them thoughtfully, follow the label, and check with your healthcare provider if you have any questions.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. This article is for general information only and is not medical advice. Talk to your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition.