Oregano Leaf Extract
Oregano leaf extract. Contains carvacrol and thymol with antibacterial activity in vitro. Can irritate in pure form; used at low concentrations in formulas.
Evidence by route
Topical application
Botanical extract with essential oils. Irritation and contact allergy possible. No topical RCTs in skincare.
How to read tiers A–F
- DNo data, or very weak or conflicting data
Tolerability and safety
- Irritation potential
- Medium
- Allergen risk
- Moderate
- Pregnancy
- Caution
- Suitable for
- Normal, Oily, Combination
- Use with caution
- Sensitive, Dry
About this ingredient
Oregano Leaf Extract (Origanum Vulgare Leaf Extract) is a hydro-ethanolic extract of oregano leaves. Active components are phenolic compounds carvacrol (40–80%) and thymol (10–30%), and flavonoids and rosmarinic acid. Mechanism. Strong antimicrobial effect against bacteria (S. aureus, MRSA, E. coli, Cutibacterium acnes), fungi (Candida, Malassezia), and viruses by disrupting cell membranes. Antioxidant effect via free radical neutralization. Where applied. Natural anti-acne products, problem-skin products, anti-dandruff shampoos, deodorants. Concentration 0.1–2%. In Europe found in craft lines. Evidence base. Human topical clinical RCTs are few (n<30, low quality). In vitro base is extensive, but clinical confirmation is insufficient. CIR confirmed safety at concentrations up to 0.1%. Safety. At concentrations above 0.5% often causes irritation, burning, contact dermatitis. Carvacrol and thymol are strong mucosal irritants. Do not apply to face at high concentrations, on damaged skin, near eyes. Pregnancy and lactation – use with caution. Oral oregano in supplement doses is contraindicated in pregnancy – carvacrol has abortifacient effect at high doses (anecdotal data). Topically at cosmetic concentrations systemic absorption is minimal, but manufacturers recommend avoidance. Alternative for acne in pregnancy – azelaic acid, niacinamide.
Frequently asked questions
Is Oregano Leaf Extract safe during pregnancy?
Oregano Leaf Extract should be used with caution during pregnancy. Consulting a dermatologist or OB-GYN is advisable.
What skin types is Oregano Leaf Extract for?
Oregano Leaf Extract suits: normal, oily, combination. Use with caution in: sensitive, dry.
Can Oregano Leaf Extract irritate the skin?
Oregano Leaf Extract has moderate irritation potential. Sensitive skin may show a transient reaction that usually settles with adaptation.
What is Oregano Leaf Extract and what does it do in cosmetics?
Oregano leaf extract.
What's the INCI name for Oregano Leaf Extract?
The INCI name is Origanum Vulgare Leaf Extract. It may also appear as: Oregano Leaf Extract.
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