A Scientific Look at Oregano’s Role in Supporting Wellness
Oregano (Origanum vulgare) is widely known as a culinary herb, but scientific research suggests it may also play a supportive role in overall wellness. Used for centuries in traditional medicine, oregano has recently attracted attention from researchers due to its rich profile of bioactive compounds.
Key Active Compounds in Oregano
Oregano contains several naturally occurring substances that have been studied for their potential health-supporting properties, including:
Carvacrol – a phenolic compound known for antimicrobial activity
Thymol – studied for its antioxidant and antiseptic properties
Rosmarinic acid – associated with anti-inflammatory effects
Flavonoids and polyphenols – compounds that help neutralize free radicals
These compounds contribute to oregano’s reputation as a herb that may help support the body’s natural defense systems.
Antioxidant Support
Oxidative stress, caused by an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants, is linked to cellular damage and aging. Laboratory studies have shown that oregano contains high levels of antioxidants, which may help protect cells from oxidative damage when included as part of a balanced diet.
Support for Digestive and Gut Health
Some research suggests oregano may help maintain microbial balance in the digestive system. Certain compounds in oregano have demonstrated activity against harmful microorganisms in laboratory settings, while potentially supporting a healthy gut environment.
Immune System Support
Oregano has been studied for its ability to support immune function due to its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. While it is not a treatment for infections, incorporating oregano into meals may help support the body’s normal immune response.
Oregano Oil: A Concentrated Form
Oregano oil is a more concentrated source of oregano’s active compounds and is commonly used in supplement form. Because of its potency, it should be used cautiously and according to professional guidance. Excessive or improper use may cause irritation or side effects.
What Science Says — and What It Doesn’t
While laboratory and early-stage studies are promising, most findings are not a substitute for clinical treatment. Oregano should be viewed as a supportive dietary component, not a cure or replacement for medical care.
Conclusion
Scientific evidence suggests that oregano can play a supportive role in wellness due to its antioxidant and bioactive compounds. When used responsibly as part of a healthy lifestyle, oregano may contribute to overall well-being. Ongoing research continues to explore its full potential and limitations.
Many are very familiar with oregano and its ability transforms ordinary dishes into flavorful masterpieces. This Mediterranean herb, from the Lamiaceae family, offers far more than culinary appeal. Scientific research reveals oregano benefits extend deep into human health, supporting everything from immune function to heart health. Modern studies validate what ancient healers knew centuries ago about this powerful plant’s therapeutic properties.
The herb contains potent bioactive compounds, particularly carvacrol and thymol, which drive most oregano benefits. These natural chemicals possess powerful antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, confirmed in laboratory studies. Fresh, dried, or oil forms all provide may provide some health advantages when incorporated into your daily consumption or when taken theraputically.
1. Powerful Antioxidant Properties Combat Free Radicals
Oregano possesses one of nature’s most potent antioxidant sources, providing protection against cell damage. The herb contains high concentrations of phenolic compounds, including carvacrol and thymol, which neutralize harmful free radicals throughout the body. Research demonstrates oregano’s antioxidant capacity surpasses many common fruits and vegetables in laboratory comparisons. Regular oregano consumption may help prevent chronic diseases linked to free radical build up, including heart disease and certain cancers.
2. Antibacterial Effects Fight Harmful Microorganisms

Scientific evidence supports that oregano benefits include powerful antibacterial properties against many pathogenic organisms. Laboratory studies show that oregano oil effectively prevents the growth of dangerous bacteria, including E. coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The herb shows particular promise against multidrug-resistant bacterial strains that do not respond positively to current treatments. Research reveals oregano oil destroys bacterial biofilms, protective barriers that make infections difficult to treat. For researchers, this demonstrates oregano’s ability to bolster the body’s natural defenses against bacterial infections.
3. Anti-inflammatory Properties Reduce Chronic Inflammation

Oregano benefits extend to controlling inflammation. The herb’s carvacrol content demonstrates significant anti-inflammatory effects in animal studies, reducing swelling by up to 57% in laboratory studies. Chronic inflammation is linked to the development of heart disease, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders, making oregano’s anti-inflammatory properties particularly valuable. Essential oil combinations containing oregano reduce inflammatory markers in digestive tract conditions like colitis. However, human studies using typical dietary doses remain limited, requiring further research to confirm oregano’s benefits.
4. Antiviral Activity Supports Immune Defense

Carvacrol and thymol, oregano’s primary active compounds, demonstrate antiviral properties against various pathogens, including norovirus and herpes simplex virus. Test-tube studies show these compounds inactivate 90% of herpes virus particles within 1 hour of exposure. Oregano’s antiviral effects may provide additional immune system support during cold and flu seasons. While promising, current evidence comes primarily from laboratory studies, with human trials yet to confirm oregano’s benefits.
5. Cancer-Fighting Compounds Show Promise

Some test tube in-vitro studies have demonstrated that oregano extract stops colon cancer cell growth and kills cancer cells. The herb’s high antioxidant content may prevent DNA damage that leads to cell damage. Carvacrol specifically shows promise against various cancer types, including ovarian, prostate, and leukemia in test-tube studies. Animal research indicates oregano supplementation may subdue tumor growth and metastasis. However, these oregano benefits require validation through human clinical trials before their use as clinical therapies.
6. Heart Health Support

The herb helps reduce LDL “bad” cholesterol levels while supporting overall heart health through its potent antioxidant compounds. Regular oregano consumption may prevent heart disease development by protecting blood vessels from oxidative damage. Oregano’s flavonoids, thymol, and carvacrol work together to improve lipid profiles and reduce heart risk factors. The herb shows benefits toward heart health and the nervous system in preliminary studies, though human research remains limited. These oregano benefits suggest potential for natural heart health support when combined with healthy lifestyle choices.
7. Digestive System Benefits

Oregano benefits healthy digestion through its muscle-relaxing abilities and may help alleviate symptoms of dyspepsia, gas, and abdominal cramping. Traditional medicine systems have long hailed oregano for its ability to help in digestive function. Research suggests oregano oil may help restore gut microbiome balance by supporting beneficial bacteria while discouraging harmful parasites. These oregano benefits make it valuable for individuals seeking natural digestive support.
8. Respiratory Health Enhancement

Oregano showed benefits for respiratory conditions, particularly chronic rhinosinusitis and bronchial congestion in clinical studies. Oregano oil nasal spray provides symptomatic relief, outperforming conventional treatments like fluticasone in controlled studies. The herb’s anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties help reduce sinus inflammation and combat respiratory infections.
Oregano can help clear mucus from the lungs and soothe dry coughs. Traditional applications include the treatment of bronchitis, common cold, sinusitis, and laryngitis through being brewed in teas or in medicinal syrups. These oregano benefits make it valuable for natural respiratory health support during illness recovery.
NBC Asks Epstein Survivors for ‘Dirt’ on Trump — It Backfires Spectacularly psss NBC Asks Epstein Survivors for ‘Dirt’ on Trump — It Backfires Spectacularly

Six women who say they were trafficked by Jeffrey Epstein or his longtime associate Ghislaine Maxwell made a public appeal on Tuesday in Washington, D.C., demanding the federal government release more investigative files. They also urged former President Donald Trump to publicly rule out a pardon for Maxwell. The women appeared alongside family members of Virginia Giuffre, a prominent Epstein accuser who died by suicide in April, and criticized what they called a long-standing failure to deliver justice.
Jess Michaels, who alleges Epstein raped her in 1991, described him as a “master manipulator” and said his behavior followed a calculated strategy that left young women and teenage girls defenseless. Michaels cited a “severe miscarriage of justice” and delays in accountability as her motivation for speaking out. Her remarks echoed the sentiments of other survivors who say they were also groomed and abused.
Wendy Avis and Jena-Lisa Jones, both of whom say they were 14 when Epstein abused them, condemned the silence of adults who may have witnessed the abuse. Jones stated that many people around Epstein “very clearly knew what was going on” but have refused to speak up. Avis, speaking publicly for the first time, stressed that victims like her still haven’t received justice, calling for broader recognition of the everyday people affected.
All six women, including Marijke Chartouni, Lisa Phillips, and Liz Stein, expressed deep frustration with the Justice Department. Stein accused officials of failing to protect or inform survivors and backed bipartisan efforts in Congress to force transparency. Their statements came just before the Republican-led House Oversight Committee released over 33,000 pages of Epstein-related documents.

Reps. Ro Khanna and Thomas Massie are leading a legislative push to investigate alleged mishandling of the federal probes into Epstein and Maxwell. Maxwell, currently serving a 20-year prison sentence, continues to deny wrongdoing. Phillips warned that if the system continues to fail them, survivors are prepared to take justice into their own hands: “We’ll compile our own list.”
‘I’M NOT SLEEPING — I’M BLINKING.’ JIMMY KIMMEL TORCHES TRUMP WITH A BRUTAL VIDEO MONTAGE AFTER THE PRESIDENT DENIES DOZING OFF DURING WHITE HOUSE MEETINGS
Jimmy Kimmel; Donald Trump.Credit : Jimmy Kimmel Live/YouTube
NEED TO KNOW Jimmy Kimmel is poking fun at Donald Trump for appearing to fall asleep during meetings The president claimed in a new interview with The Wall Street Journal that cameras have captured him “blinking” In response, Kimmel shared a video montage of Trump shutting his eyes while conducting official White House business
Jimmy Kimmel has a new nickname for Donald Trump: “Teddy Dozevelt.”
At the end of his Wednesday, Jan. 7, monologue for Jimmy Kimmel Live!, the late-night host shared a 40-second video montage of the president appearing to doze off during meetings. Kimmel introduced the bit by claiming that Trump, 79, has “enough trouble staying awake.”
“Teddy Dozevelt told The Wall Street Journal that… You know those many videos of him nodding off during meetings? He says he’s not sleeping, he’s blinking,” Kimmel told his audience. “That’s right, he has the rare ability to hold a blink for minutes at a time.”
He added, “To showcase that ability, we put together this video montage of some of the many times he most definitely wasn’t falling asleep on live TV.”
The comedian then proceeded to present a clip of Trump shutting his eyes during a meeting with Saudi Arabia’s Mohammed bin Salman, sitting at a table next to Marco Rubio, while apparently dozing off and looking out of it during a handful of other meetings and press conferences.
Donald Trump attends a meeting at the White House.Jimmy Kimmel Live/YouTube
Indeed, the president recently opened up about his health to The Wall Street Journal, denying that he sleeps during White House meetings. In the interview, published on Jan. 1, Trump said photographers have taken photos of him where it looks as if he’s sleeping, yet “sometimes they’ll take a picture of me blinking.”
“And they’ll catch me with the blink,” he said, noting that closing his eyes is “very relaxing to me” during meetings.
Elsewhere in the phone call, Trump told the outlet that he was not interested in regular exercise. “I just don’t like it. It’s boring,” he said. “To walk on a treadmill or run on a treadmill for hours and hours like some people do, that’s not for me.”
Susie Wiles, the White House chief of staff, also previously denied that Trump was sleeping during meetings. She told Vanity Fair in an interview published on Dec. 16 that “he’s got his eyes closed and his head leaned back … and, you know, he’s fine.”
After footage from a Dec. 2 cabinet meeting showed the president apparently nodding off, press secretary Karoline Leavitt defended Trump’s “amazing” performance in a statement shared by the White House with PEOPLE. “President Trump was listening attentively and running the entire three-hour marathon Cabinet meeting,” said Leavitt, 28.
She added, “In all of these historic meetings, the President and his incredible team highlight the exhaustive list of accomplishments they have delivered on behalf of the American people to Make America Great Again.”
Wednesday’s show was not the first time Kimmel, 58, has poked fun at the president’s shut-eye time. On Dec. 2, Kimmel did the same, sharing clips of Trump appearing to doze off while at an official White House meeting.
The latest episode of Jimmy Kimmel Live! marks the host’s third of 2026, following a contentious 2025 full of attacks from Trump on social media. Kimmel, a vocal opponent of the president, actually gave Trump a shoutout while accepting the award for Best Talk Show at the 2026 Critics’ Choice Awards on Sunday, Jan. 4.
During his speech, he referenced the challenges his show faced when Jimmy Kimmel Live! was suspended for six days. “Thank you to all the writers and actors and producers and union members, many of you who are in this room, who supported us, who really stepped forward for us, and reminded us that we do not take free speech for granted in this city or this country,” he said, before giving a nod to Trump.
Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE’s free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.
“And most of all, I wanna thank our president, Donald Jennifer Trump, without whom we would be going home empty-handed tonight,” he added. “So thank you, Mr. President, for all the many ridiculous things you do each and every day. It’s been a banner couple of weeks, and we can’t wait to get back on the air tomorrow night to talk about them.”
JUDICIAL TAKEDOWN: JUDGE FORCES T.R.U.M.P TO CHANGE KENNEDY CENTER NAME BACK TO ORIGINAL?! Judge Steps In as Trump’s Kennedy Center Rename Triggers Legal Revolt and Artist Boycotts

A sweeping political and cultural backlash has erupted after Donald Trump moved to attach his name to the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, igniting a legal firestorm and prompting urgent questions about presidential authority, historical preservation, and the rule of law. Legal experts say the move may directly conflict with federal statutes governing the memorial.
The controversy intensified after the Kennedy Center’s board—reshaped during Trump’s tenure—approved a name alteration despite a longstanding law requiring explicit congressional authorization for any change. Within days, large metal lettering bearing Trump’s name appeared on the building, a move critics described as unprecedented and deliberately provocative given the Center’s status as a memorial to an assassinated president.

Legal scholars and former government officials quickly pushed back. Norm Eisen, now leading the Democracy Defenders Fund, argued that the action fits a broader pattern of defying both norms and statutes. He noted that courts have repeatedly intervened to halt similar actions, citing hundreds of lawsuits that successfully constrained executive overreach in recent years.
The fallout was immediate and visible. Protests erupted outside the Kennedy Center, while prominent artists began canceling scheduled performances. Representatives for musicians slated to appear at the venue confirmed withdrawals, citing concerns about politicization and respect for the institution’s historical mission. Cultural leaders warned that the controversy could permanently damage the Center’s reputation as a neutral space for artistic excellence.
Members of Congress also entered the fray. Lawmakers emphasized that only Congress—not the White House, and not a board vote—has the authority to rename the Kennedy Center. Several representatives called the move a “sacrilege” and an insult to President John F. Kennedy’s legacy, stressing that the original name was established by statute and signed into law after Kennedy’s assassination.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(749x0:751x2)/joe-kennedy-iii-donald-trump-121825-23aaeab11e534ec3a62eabfea4859ca4.jpg)
Beyond the naming dispute, analysts framed the episode as part of a larger pattern. Critics pointed to simultaneous controversies involving judicial defiance, public health policy, and executive unilateralism, arguing that the Kennedy Center episode symbolizes a growing “imperial presidency” operating with few internal checks.
Political strategists believe the optics could carry electoral consequences. While the renaming has dominated Washington media, polls suggest voters are increasingly concerned about cost-of-living issues, raising questions about why symbolic battles are taking precedence. Opponents argue the issue provides Democrats with a powerful populist narrative: Americans do not have kings, and public institutions are not personal branding tools.
As legal challenges advance and pressure mounts, the future of the Kennedy Center’s name remains uncertain. What is clear, however, is that the attempted rebranding has transformed a cultural landmark into a national flashpoint—one that intertwines law, history, and power. Whether the lettering remains or is removed, the episode has already reignited a fundamental debate about who controls America’s public symbols, and how far presidential authority can truly extend.