Is oregano good for fatty liver? Whilst oregano contains bioactive compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties demonstrated in laboratory studies, there is currently no robust clinical evidence that oregano improves fatty liver disease in humans. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) affects approximately one in three UK adults and is closely linked to obesity, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. NICE guidance emphasises that the cornerstone of fatty liver management remains weight loss, dietary modification, and increased physical activity. Whilst culinary use of oregano as part of a Mediterranean-style diet is safe and may support overall health, oregano supplements should not replace evidence-based treatments. Always discuss herbal supplements with your GP, particularly if you have liver disease or take regular medications.

Understanding Fatty Liver Disease and Natural Remedies

Fatty liver disease, medically termed hepatic steatosis, occurs when excess fat accumulates in liver cells. This condition affects approximately one in three adults in the UK and exists in two main forms: non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and alcohol-related fatty liver disease (ARLD). NAFLD is increasingly common due to rising rates of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome, whilst ARLD results from excessive alcohol consumption over time.

In its early stages, fatty liver disease typically causes no symptoms and is often discovered incidentally during routine blood tests or imaging for other conditions. It is important to note that liver blood tests (liver function tests) can be normal in NAFLD, so diagnosis often relies on a combination of risk factors, imaging (usually ultrasound), and non-invasive fibrosis risk assessment tools. If left unmanaged, fatty liver disease can progress to more serious conditions including non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), liver fibrosis, cirrhosis, and potentially liver failure. Risk factors include obesity (particularly central adiposity), insulin resistance, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and a sedentary lifestyle.

In UK primary care, initial assessment includes fibrosis risk stratification using validated scores such as the FIB-4 or NAFLD fibrosis score. If these indicate indeterminate or high risk, a second-line test (the Enhanced Liver Fibrosis [ELF] blood test) may be arranged. According to NICE guidance (NG49), an ELF score of 10.51 or above suggests advanced fibrosis and warrants referral to a hepatologist.

Many individuals seek natural remedies to support liver health alongside conventional medical advice. The interest in herbal supplements and dietary modifications reflects a desire for holistic approaches to managing chronic conditions. Oregano, a culinary herb with a long history in Mediterranean cuisine and traditional medicine, has attracted attention for its potential hepatoprotective properties. However, it is essential to understand that whilst natural remedies may offer supportive benefits, they should never replace evidence-based medical treatments or lifestyle modifications recommended by healthcare professionals.

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) emphasises that the cornerstone of fatty liver disease management remains weight loss, dietary modification, and increased physical activity. Any complementary approaches, including herbal supplements, should be discussed with your GP or hepatologist to ensure safety and appropriateness for your individual circumstances.

Further information:

• NHS: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)

• NICE guideline NG49: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: assessment and management

• British Liver Trust: NAFLD patient information

Oregano's Potential Benefits for Liver Health

Oregano (Origanum vulgare) contains several bioactive compounds that have demonstrated potential health benefits in laboratory and animal studies. The herb is particularly rich in polyphenolic compounds, including carvacrol, thymol, rosmarinic acid, and various flavonoids. These constituents possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties that researchers have investigated for their potential therapeutic applications in preclinical models.

Carvacrol and thymol, the primary phenolic compounds in oregano essential oil, have shown hepatoprotective effects in laboratory experiments using cells and in animal studies. These compounds may help reduce oxidative stress—a key mechanism in the progression of fatty liver disease—in experimental settings. Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body, leading to cellular damage. The liver, being central to metabolic processes, is particularly vulnerable to oxidative injury, especially when dealing with excess fat accumulation.

Additionally, oregano's anti-inflammatory properties observed in preclinical research may theoretically benefit liver health. Chronic low-grade inflammation plays a significant role in the progression from simple steatosis (fat accumulation) to steatohepatitis (fat accumulation with inflammation). By potentially modulating inflammatory pathways in experimental models, oregano compounds might help reduce hepatic inflammation, though this remains entirely theoretical in human applications.

Oregano extracts may also influence lipid metabolism—the way the body processes fats—in animal studies. Some research in rodents suggests that oregano extracts might help reduce triglyceride levels and improve cholesterol profiles, both of which are relevant to fatty liver disease management. Furthermore, the herb's potential effects on insulin sensitivity observed in laboratory settings could theoretically benefit individuals with NAFLD, as insulin resistance is a key driver of this condition.

It is crucial to understand that these effects have been observed only in laboratory cell cultures and animal models, not in human clinical studies. The composition and potency of oregano preparations vary widely: culinary oregano (fresh or dried herb), ethanolic extracts, and concentrated essential oils differ substantially in their active compound levels and safety profiles. The doses used in animal experiments often far exceed what humans would consume through diet or typical supplementation.

Currently, there is no official link established between oregano consumption and clinically significant improvements in human fatty liver disease. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) and MHRA have not authorised any oregano product for the treatment or management of liver disease.

Scientific Evidence: Does Oregano Help Fatty Liver?

The scientific evidence regarding oregano's efficacy for fatty liver disease in humans remains limited and preliminary. Whilst laboratory studies and animal models have shown promising results, robust clinical trials in human populations are notably absent. This evidence gap means that healthcare professionals cannot currently recommend oregano as a treatment for fatty liver disease based on established clinical evidence.

In animal studies, oregano essential oil and its constituent compounds have demonstrated hepatoprotective effects. Research published in various pharmacology journals has shown that oregano extracts can reduce liver enzyme elevations, decrease hepatic fat accumulation, and improve markers of oxidative stress in rodent models of fatty liver disease. For example, studies have reported that carvacrol supplementation reduced liver steatosis and inflammation in mice fed high-fat diets. However, animal physiology differs significantly from human physiology, and findings from rodent studies cannot be directly extrapolated to clinical practice.

In vitro studies (laboratory experiments using cells) have similarly shown that oregano compounds can protect liver cells from oxidative damage and reduce lipid accumulation in hepatocytes (liver cells). These mechanistic studies help researchers understand potential biological pathways but do not demonstrate clinical efficacy or safety in living humans.

Crucially, systematic reviews of herbal interventions in NAFLD have found no published randomised controlled trials (the gold standard of medical evidence) specifically examining oregano's effects on fatty liver disease in human patients. The absence of such trials means we cannot determine appropriate dosing, duration of treatment, potential side effects, or actual clinical benefits. Neither the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) nor the European Medicines Agency (EMA) has approved oregano or its extracts as a treatment for liver disease, and there are no authorised indications for oregano in the management of NAFLD or ARLD.

Therefore, whilst the preliminary research is interesting from a scientific perspective, it would be premature and potentially misleading to claim that oregano is 'good for' fatty liver disease. Patients should be aware that there is no official link between oregano consumption and improvement in fatty liver disease based on current human clinical evidence. Anyone considering oregano supplements should discuss this with their healthcare provider, particularly if they have existing liver disease or take medications metabolised by the liver.

How to Use Oregano Safely for Liver Support

If you wish to incorporate oregano into your diet as part of a generally healthy eating pattern, culinary use of the herb is considered safe for most people. Fresh or dried oregano can be added to Mediterranean-style dishes, which align with dietary patterns recommended for fatty liver disease management. The Mediterranean diet, rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, legumes, and healthy fats, has evidence supporting its benefits for liver health and metabolic conditions.

However, there is an important distinction between culinary use and therapeutic supplementation. Oregano supplements, particularly concentrated essential oils or extracts, contain much higher levels of active compounds than you would obtain from cooking with the herb. These concentrated forms carry greater potential for adverse effects and drug interactions.

Potential side effects of oregano supplements, particularly at high doses, may include:

• Gastrointestinal upset (nausea, diarrhoea, abdominal discomfort)

• Allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to plants in the Lamiaceae family (including mint, basil, sage, and lavender)

• Skin irritation if essential oil is applied topically without proper dilution or on broken skin

• Potential blood sugar lowering effects in some individuals, which could be relevant for those taking diabetes medications

Important safety advice for essential oils: Do not ingest oregano essential oil. If using topically, always dilute properly in a carrier oil and avoid application to broken skin or mucous membranes.

Drug interactions are a particular concern, though clinical evidence for oregano-specific interactions is limited. The most relevant interaction involves warfarin and other vitamin K antagonist (VKA) anticoagulants. Whilst oregano herb contains some vitamin K, the key advice for patients on warfarin is to maintain consistent dietary intake of vitamin K-containing foods rather than avoid them entirely. Oregano essential oil contains negligible vitamin K. This interaction does not apply to direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) such as apixaban, rivaroxaban, or dabigatran.

If you take regular medications—especially warfarin, diabetes medications, or other prescribed treatments—consult your GP or pharmacist before taking oregano supplements. Theoretical interactions with liver enzymes that metabolise drugs have been suggested but are not well established in human studies.

Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid oregano supplements (though culinary amounts are generally considered safe) due to insufficient safety data. Similarly, individuals with existing liver disease should exercise particular caution, as concentrated herbal supplements could theoretically affect liver function in some cases.

Regulation and product quality: In the UK, herbal products may be regulated as foods or, if they meet specific criteria, registered under the MHRA's Traditional Herbal Registration (THR) scheme. Products bearing the THR logo have met standards for quality, safety, and traditional use evidence. When purchasing oregano supplements, choose reputable sources and look for THR registration where applicable.

Reporting side effects: If you experience a suspected side effect from an oregano supplement, you can report it via the MHRA Yellow Card scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk or through the Yellow Card app. This helps improve the safety monitoring of herbal products.

If you are considering oregano supplements, discuss this with your healthcare provider first. They can assess whether it is appropriate for your individual circumstances and advise on potential interactions with your current medications. Never use oregano supplements as a substitute for prescribed treatments or lifestyle modifications recommended by your doctor.

Medical Treatments and Lifestyle Changes for Fatty Liver

The management of fatty liver disease, as recommended by NICE guidelines (NG49), centres primarily on lifestyle modification rather than pharmacological intervention for most patients. Weight loss remains the most effective treatment for NAFLD, with evidence showing that losing 7–10% of body weight can significantly reduce liver fat, inflammation, and even fibrosis. Even modest weight loss of 3–5% can improve hepatic steatosis.

Dietary modifications should focus on:

• Reducing overall calorie intake to achieve gradual, sustainable weight loss (typically 0.5–1 kg per week)

• Limiting refined carbohydrates and added sugars, particularly fructose-containing beverages

• Reducing saturated fat intake whilst incorporating healthy fats from sources like olive oil, nuts, and oily fish

• Increasing consumption of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and legumes

• Following a Mediterranean-style dietary pattern, which has specific evidence for liver health benefits

• Alcohol consumption: The UK Chief Medical Officers advise that to keep health risks from alcohol low, it is safest not to drink more than 14 units per week on a regular basis, spread over 3 or more days. For individuals with alcohol-related liver disease (ARLD) or advanced fibrosis/cirrhosis, abstinence from alcohol is strongly recommended.

Physical activity is equally important. The UK Chief Medical Officers' Physical Activity Guidelines recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week (or 75 minutes of vigorous activity), along with muscle-strengthening activities on at least two days per week. Exercise improves insulin sensitivity, aids weight loss, and can reduce liver fat independently of weight loss. Activities might include brisk walking, cycling, swimming, or structured exercise classes—the key is finding sustainable activities you enjoy.

Medical management may be appropriate for certain patients. Whilst there is no licensed medication specifically for NAFLD in the UK, treatment of associated conditions is essential:

• Diabetes management: Optimise glycaemic control according to NICE guideline NG28. Do not offer metformin specifically to treat NAFLD; use it for diabetes management as clinically indicated. Emerging evidence suggests that GLP-1 receptor agonists and SGLT2 inhibitors may have metabolic benefits relevant to NAFLD, though they are not licensed for this indication.

• Specialist therapies: In selected patients with biopsy-proven NASH (not simple steatosis), a hepatologist may consider pioglitazone (in adults with or without diabetes) or vitamin E (in adults without diabetes), after discussion of potential risks and benefits. These are specialist-only decisions and require careful patient counselling, particularly regarding vitamin E, which may carry risks in some populations.

• Managing hypertension and dyslipidaemia with appropriate medications as per standard guidelines.

1. Fibrosis risk assessment and referral pathway (NICE NG49):
2. In primary care, use a validated fibrosis risk score such as FIB-4 or the NAFLD fibrosis score to stratify risk.
3. If the score indicates indeterminate or high risk, arrange an Enhanced Liver Fibrosis (ELF) blood test.
4. Refer to a hepatologist if:

• ELF score is 10.51 or above (indicating advanced fibrosis)

• Persistently abnormal liver function tests despite lifestyle modification

• Diagnostic uncertainty or coexisting liver conditions

• Clinical signs of cirrhosis or portal hypertension

When to seek urgent medical attention: Contact your GP promptly if you develop symptoms such as persistent abdominal pain, jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes), unexplained weight loss, or signs of liver decompensation (confusion, swelling of legs or abdomen, vomiting blood, black tarry stools). If you cannot reach your GP or need advice out of hours, contact NHS 111 (dial 111 or visit 111.nhs.uk). These symptoms may indicate disease progression requiring urgent assessment.

Remember that fatty liver disease is largely reversible in its early stages with appropriate lifestyle changes. Whilst natural remedies like oregano may seem appealing, the evidence base strongly supports conventional approaches: weight management, dietary modification, regular physical activity, alcohol reduction or abstinence, and treatment of metabolic risk factors. These interventions have robust evidence demonstrating their effectiveness and should form the foundation of your management plan. Always work closely with your healthcare team to develop a personalised approach suitable for your individual circumstances.

Further information and support:

• NICE guideline NG49: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: assessment and management

• NICE quality standard QS152: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease

• NHS: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)

• British Liver Trust: Patient information and support services

• UK Chief Medical Officers' Low Risk Drinking Guidelines

• UK Chief Medical Officers' Physical Activity Guidelines

Frequently Asked Questions