Skin Conditioning
ORIGANUM VULGARE LEAF
Safety score · 0–100
Fine
Derived from EU CosIng regulatory status, PubChem hazard data and published research. How we score.
About
Oregano leaf — rich in carvacrol and thymol, giving antioxidant and antimicrobial activity but real potential for irritation and contact sensitization.
Origanum vulgare leaf is the dried foliage of common oregano, a Lamiaceae herb. Its composition is dominated by carvacrol and thymol monoterpene phenols, which have documented antimicrobial and antioxidant activity but are also well-recognized skin and mucous membrane irritants at elevated levels. EU CosIng lists the ingredient without specific restriction; however, related oregano essential oil is flagged by IFRA/SCCS for irritation. Formulators should treat leaf extracts containing appreciable carvacrol/thymol with caution, especially in leave-on or near-eye products.
Skin benefits
- Carvacrol/thymol antimicrobial activity
- Antioxidant phenolics
- Traditional herbal use
Known concerns
- Carvacrol and thymol are potent sensitizers
- Possible mucosal irritation
- Essential oil residues in extracts
References
EU CosIng database
European Commission cosmetic ingredient registry — regulatory status, restrictions, authorised functions.
Related skin conditionings
Check your shelf
Find ORIGANUM VULGARE LEAF in your products.
Scan any cosmetic product with LuxSense to see if it contains ORIGANUM VULGARE LEAF and get a full ingredient breakdown with safety scores.
This profile is for educational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Regulatory status and scientific understanding evolve — always read the physical product label and consult a healthcare professional for personal concerns.