Oregano - Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine, Codeine Phosphate Interaction
Herbal: Oregano
Also Known As: Origanum vulgare, Carvacrol, European Oregano, Marjolaine Sauvage, Marjolaine Vivace, Mediterranean Oregano, Mountain Mint, Oil of Oregano, Oregano Oil, Organy, Origan, Origan Européen, Origani Vulgaris Herba, Origano, Winter Marjoram, Wintersweet
Drug: Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine, Codeine Phosphate
Brand names:
Fiorinal w/ Codeine
Medical Content Editor Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
Last updated
May 04, 2025
Interaction Details
Aspirin, Butalbital, Caffeine, Codeine Phosphate is classified as belonging to the following category: Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs
Theoretically, oregano might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs.
In vitro research shows that aristolochic acid isolated from oregano leaves has antithrombin activity. It has also been reported that oregano oil inhibits arachidonic acid-induced, and ADP-induced, platelet aggregation.
Interaction Rating
Likelihood of Occurrence
PossibleInteraction has been documented in animal or in lab research, or the interaction has been documented in humans but is limited to case reports or conflicting clinical research exists
Pharmacist Analysis
Anticoagulants and antiplatelet drugs work by slowing down or preventing blood clotting. While they are essential medications for individuals with certain conditions, they come with an increased risk of bleeding.
Some studies have reported that oregano oil may also increase the risk of bleeding, as it contains compounds that have antithrombin activity and can inhibit platelet aggregation.
Therefore, taking oregano oil along with anticoagulants or antiplatelet drugs may increase the risk of bleeding, bruising, and other adverse effects.
One of the compounds found in oregano oil, aristolochic acid, has been shown to have antithrombin activity in vitro (i.e., lab) research.
Antithrombin is a protein that inhibits the coagulation cascade, which is involved in the formation of blood clots. By inhibiting antithrombin, aristolochic acid may increase the risk of bleeding.
In addition, oregano oil has been shown to inhibit arachidonic acid-induced and ADP-induced platelet aggregation in vitro studies.
It is important to note that the evidence supporting an interaction between oregano oil and anticoagulant/antiplatelet drugs is largely theoretical and based on in vitro studies. Evidence in human studies is lacking.
However, it is still recommended to be cautious when taking oregano oil supplements with any other drug that increases the risk of bleeding.
- Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmDReferences
- Tognolini, M., Barocelli, E., Ballabeni, V., Bruni, R., Bianchi, A., Chiavarini, M., and Impicciatore, M. Comparative screening of plant essential oils: phenylpropanoid moiety as basic core for antiplatelet activity. Life Sci. 2-23-2006;78(13):1419-1432.
- Goun, E., Cunningham, G., Solodnikov, S., Krasnykch, O., and Miles, H. Antithrombin activity of some constituents from Origanum vulgare. Fitoterapia 2002;73(7-8):692-694.
Oregano Overview
Oregano is a perennial herb that is native to the Mediterranean region. It is a member of the mint family (Lamiaceae) and is known for its fragrant leaves and small, purple flowers.
Oregano is commonly used in cooking and has a strong, slightly bitter flavor.
In traditional medicine, oregano is believed to have a number of health benefits due to its high content of antioxidant and possible antimicrobial properties. It is thought to have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects, and it is used to treat a variety of conditions, including cardiovascular disease, digestive problems, respiratory infections, and skin disorders.
Most dietary supplements containing oregano are oregano oil extracts, often standardized to contain a specific amount of certain components, such as carvacrol.
Oregano - More Interactions
Oregano interacts with 205 drugs
Interaction Rating Key
These severity listings are for informational use only. Never start, stop or otherwise change your therapy before speaking with your provider.
| Major | The combined use of these agents is strongly discouraged as serious side effects or other negative outcomes could occur. |
| Moderate | Use cautiously under the care of a healthcare professional or avoid this combination. A significant interaction or negative outcome could occur. |
| Minor | Be aware that there is a chance of an interaction. Watch for warning signs of a potential interaction. |
| Unknown | No interactions have been reported or no interaction data is currently available. |
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Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.
DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.
© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC
Drug descriptions are provided by MedlinePlus.
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Dr. Brian Staiger, PharmD
In addition to being a clinical pharmacist specializing in pharmacotherapy, Dr. Brian Staiger is a registered herbalist through the American Herbalist Guild. He has combined his passion for pharmacy practice with the study of medical ethnobotany to improve patient care. Feel free to reach out about any of your herbal or medication questions!
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