Oregano Extract as a Natural MAOI

BASEL, SwitzerlandA specialty oregano extract may support mood, serving as a monoamine reuptake inhibitor, according to a new study (Br J Nutr. ePub 21 Dec 2010. DOI: 10.1017/S0007114510004940). Researchers from DSM Nutritional Products, working with colleagues from De Montfort University, Leicester, England, noted the body requires adequate nutrition, particularly amino acids, to produce the neurotransmitters serotonin, dopamine and noradrenaline, which are associated with modulating mood, appetite and cognitive function. While certain antidepressants prevent the reuptake of these monoamine neurotransmitters, there has not been a great deal of research on the ability of nutritional interventions to elevate brain monoamine concentrations.

In their trial, the research team investigated an extract from oregano leaves, with a specified range of active constituents, and found it could inhibit the reuptake and degradation of the monoamine neurotransmitters in a dose-dependent manner. Further, experiments in rats showed administration of the oregano extract increased extracellular serotonin levels in the brain; the animals also had behavioral responses that parallel the effects of monoamine-enhancing compounds used in humans. The investigators concluded the specialty oregano extract has moderate triple reuptake inhibitory activity, and can have positive behavioral effects, which may lead to enhanced mental well-being.