Oreganol P73 Guide: North American Herb & Spice's Oregano Oil Explained

North American Herb & Spice is a US supplement brand best known for Oreganol P73, an edible oil of oregano. It comes in several forms — a liquid oil, gelcaps and a Super Strength version — and the names can be confusing if you're buying for the first time. This guide explains what the product is, how the versions differ, and what to check before you buy.

This is general shopping information, not medical advice. Dietary supplements aren't reviewed by the FDA for safety or effectiveness before they're sold, and the NIH's National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health recommends talking to a health care provider before starting any supplement.

What Oreganol P73 is

According to North American Herb & Spice, Oreganol P73 is made from wild oregano hand-harvested in the mountains of the Mediterranean, blended with organic extra virgin olive oil. The company says "P73" refers to its blend of wild oregano species with a carvacrol content of 73% or more — carvacrol being one of the main compounds in oregano oil.

Oil, gelcaps or Super Strength?

Because Super Strength changes the ratio of oregano oil to olive oil rather than the capsule size, the servings aren't interchangeable with the regular gelcaps. Follow the directions on the label of the version you buy.

Reading the label

• Serving size: compare products per serving, not per bottle.
• Amount per serving: how much is oregano oil and how much is carrier oil.
• Other ingredients: softgel shells and carrier oils, if you have allergies or dietary rules.
• Lot number and best-by date: check them when your order arrives.

What the evidence says

Oregano oil is widely sold as a supplement, but the evidence behind many of the uses it's marketed for is limited. NCCIH notes there's no strong evidence that oil of oregano prevents or treats colds, for example. Treat marketing claims with care, and don't use a supplement in place of treatment your doctor has recommended.

Safety checks before you buy

• Talk to a doctor or pharmacist first if you're pregnant or breastfeeding, take prescription medications, or have a health condition.
• Tell your doctor about any supplements you take, since supplements can interact with medicines.
• Keep supplements out of reach of children.
• Stop and seek medical advice if you have a reaction.

Other North American Herb & Spice products

Besides Oreganol, the brand sells supplements such as PurelyMin magnesium, CollaGem powder, black seed oil capsules and Purely-C. The same label checks apply to each.

Buying direct and saving

North American Herb & Spice sells through its own website as well as retailers such as Amazon and vitamin stores. Buying direct, the store has a 15% welcome offer — see the North American Herb & Spice page for current links. Comparing supplement stores? Our HerbsPro guide covers comparing supplements across brands.