10 Possible Side Effects Of Origanum Vulgare (Wild Marjoram)

Origanum vulgare has some side effects when used improperly, such as gastrointestinal issues, allergic reactions, and interactions with medications.

Causes of these side effects may include excessive consumption, underlying health conditions, or sensitivity to the herb's essential oils.

For example, severe gastrointestinal issues can lead to dehydration, nausea, and weight loss, significantly impacting daily life and productivity.

This article explains in details the 10 most common side effects of Origanum vulgare if used imporperly.

1. Induces toxic reactions

Origanum vulgare causes allergic reactions in some individuals.

This is likely due to its volatile oils, particularly thymol and carvacrol, which can trigger an immune response in sensitive people.

Additionally, the herb's high concentration of phenolic compounds may also contribute to this adverse effect.

2. Induces toxic reactions

Origanum vulgare triggers asthma attacks due to its high content of camphor and borneol.

These volatile oils can stimulate the airways and cause bronchospasm, leading to a sudden onset of asthma symptoms.

Additionally, the herb's irritating properties can exacerbate existing respiratory issues, further increasing the risk of an attack.

3. Induces toxic reactions

Origanum vulgare interferes with medications due to its ability to alter liver metabolism and increase the elimination of certain drugs from the body.

This may cause a decrease in their efficacy or even lead to adverse interactions with other prescribed medications.

The chemical compounds present in Origanum vulgare, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, are thought to be responsible for this interaction, making it essential to monitor medication use when taking this herb.

4. Induces toxic reactions

Origanum vulgare increases blood pressure due to its potential to interact with medications used for high blood pressure and other cardiovascular conditions.

The essential oils present in the herb, such as thymol and carvacrol, may stimulate the body's sympathetic nervous system, leading to increased heart rate and blood pressure. Additionally, the caffeine-like compounds found in wild marjoram may also contribute to this side effect.

As a result, individuals with hypertension or cardiovascular disease should be cautious when using Origanum vulgare.

5. Induces toxic reactions

6. Induces toxic reactions

Origanum vulgare worsens kidney issues due to its ability to increase urine production and reduce blood flow to the kidneys.

This can exacerbate conditions such as nephritis or chronic kidney disease, potentially leading to further damage and decreased function.

The increased diuretic effect of wild marjoram can also cause potassium levels to drop, which can have adverse effects on the heart.

7. Induces toxic reactions

Origanum vulgare affects liver function due to its high concentration of phenolic compounds and flavonoids, which can inhibit certain liver enzymes.

The liver is responsible for detoxifying these substances, but if ingested in excessive amounts, they may overwhelm the organ's natural defenses, leading to disruptions in liver function.

This interaction may cause symptoms such as jaundice, fatigue, or abdominal pain.

8. Induces toxic reactions

Origanum vulgare enhances bleeding risk.

The essential oil extracted from its leaves contains thymol and carvacrol, which can thin the blood and disrupt platelet function, increasing the likelihood of spontaneous bleeding or prolonged bleeding after an injury or surgical procedure.

Additionally, Origanum vulgare may interact with anticoagulant medications, further exacerbating this risk.

9. Induces toxic reactions

Origanum vulgare irritates skin and eyes due to its high concentration of phenolic compounds, which are known for their potent antioxidant properties.

However, these same compounds can cause adverse reactions when they come into contact with sensitive skin or mucous membranes, leading to redness, itching, and inflammation.

Additionally, the volatile oils present in Origanum vulgare can cause eye irritation and tearing.

10. Induces toxic reactions

Origanum vulgare causes stomach upset due to its high concentration of essential oils and phenolic compounds.

These compounds can irritate the mucous membranes in the digestive tract, leading to symptoms such as heartburn, nausea, and bloating.

Additionally, wild marjoram contains a type of terpene called thymol, which has been shown to stimulate the stomach muscles and increase gastric contractions, potentially exacerbating stomach upset.