Oil of oregano, also referred to as oregano oil, is pretty much what it sounds like: a concentrated extract from the leaves of an oregano plant.

"It’s most commonly taken as a liquid oil or in capsule form," saysMascha Davis, MPH, RDN, a registered dietitian nutritionist and author of "Eat Your Vitamins." "Some people use a few drops diluted in water or juice, while others take it as part of a supplement routine, especially during cold and flu season."

Oregano oil has been lauded for centuries for certain health benefits. Is it actually worth the hype?

"While oil of oregano can be part of a short-term wellness strategy, it’s not a magic cure-all," Davis warns. Here's how it can and can't benefit your health.

What is oil of oregano good for?

The most research on oil of oregano has shown it to have antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.

"It contains compounds like carvacrol and thymol, which may help fight certain bacteria, fungi and viruses in lab settings," Davis explains.

But it's important to note that research on this topic is still limited, and experts stress the important of conducting further studies to fully understand how effective oil of oregano is for humans. Davis points out that most of the evidence surrounding immunity and digestion benefits has only been found in in vitro (testing cells or other biological matter in a lab, outside of a human body) or animal studies, not on humans.

Who should not take oil of oregano?

Though it seems that oil of oregano can offer some health benefits, experts warn that it isn't for everyone. Those who are iron deficient, pregnant, breastfeeding, allergic to mint and/or who are taking certain medications such as ones that slow blood clotting or medications for diabetes should avoid it, unless their healthcare provider suggests otherwise, Davis recommends.

And even if you don't fall under any of the aforementioned categories, you still need to pay attention to how much oil of oregano you're consuming, because its high concentration can "irritate the gut lining if taken in excess or without proper dilution," she says.

"If you're using oil of oregano, less is more," Davis adds. She recommends only using in the short-term, such as a few days to a week, and paying close attention to the dosage.

"For long-term immune or gut support, a nutrient-dense, plant-forward diet, regular probiotic intake, quality sleep and stress management are much more sustainable and evidence-based tools," she says. "And remember: a single supplement won’t replace the benefits of consistent, holistic lifestyle habits."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Oil of oregano has been a health tool for centuries. But it isn't safe for everyone.

Reporting by Hannah Yasharoff, USA TODAY / USA TODAY

USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect