top of page
Search

Does Oregano Work as a Natural Dewormer in Chickens?

Updated: May 22

oregano essential oil in a jar

Oregano is a popular herb in backyard chicken keeping, and not just for cooking! Many flock owners wonder if it can also help keep worms and other parasites in check. While oregano essential oil is well-known for its natural support of digestive and immune health, its role in parasite control is still being explored.


What the Research Says

Oregano contains powerful plant compounds like carvacrol and thymol, which are known for their natural antimicrobial and antifungal properties. Some research suggests these compounds may also make life harder for parasites in the digestive system, by creating a gut environment that’s less friendly for them to thrive in. (1, 5)


In fact, scientists have seen signs that oregano may affect parasites called nematodes (tiny worms that can live in the intestines). These compounds seem to interact with the parasite’s nervous system and may even stop them from functioning properly. (4)


While oregano may not fully replace traditional dewormers, early research shows it could help reduce the need for frequent treatments when used consistently as part of a healthy care routine. (1, 2, 3) That’s great news for chicken keepers looking for natural options!


It’s also worth noting that parasites can become resistant to chemical dewormers over time, so rotating in natural tools like oregano may help you stay one step ahead. (1)


Using Oregano to Support a Healthy, Resilient Flock

Oregano can be a helpful part of your overall flock wellness plan. Here are a few ways to naturally work it into your chickens’ routine:

  • Add fresh or dried oregano to feed or scratch grains.

  • Use chicken-safe supplements that include oregano essential oil

  • Practice good coop management by cleaning regularly, sticking to your deworming schedule and watching for signs of worms.


Too little oregano may not do much, and too much can be overwhelming to your flock and even cause them harm, so it’s important to use products that are specially formulated for poultry. This takes the guesswork out of dosage since they’re designed with your flock’s safety in mind.


(Looking to boost coop cleanliness too? Coop Recuperate helps create a cleaner, drier home for your flock, another key part of parasite control!)


How to Tell if Your Chickens Have Worms

Parasites are a natural part of a chicken’s environment, especially when they’re out scratching in the dirt, pecking through the grass or sharing space with wild birds. But keeping an eye out for signs of worms can help you step in early and support your flock before a small problem becomes a bigger one.


Some things to watch for include:

  • Weight loss or chickens that feel thinner than usual when you pick them up

  • Pale combs or wattles, which may point to a lack of nutrients or anemia

  • Runny or unusual droppings

  • Tired or droopy hens that aren’t acting like their usual curious selves

  • A sudden drop in egg production

  • In some cases, you may even see worms in the droppings


If you notice one or more of these signs, it’s a good idea to take a closer look at your flock’s health and reach out to a poultry expert or veterinarian if needed. Pairing good management with natural tools like oregano can go a long way in keeping your chickens strong and thriving.


Beyond Deworming: Other Benefits of Oregano

Oregano doesn’t just support parasite control, it’s also great for overall flock health. Here are a few ways it helps keep chickens feeling their best:

  • Supports digestion – A balanced digestive system means better nutrient absorption and less stress.

  • Promotes strong immunity – A healthy immune function helps chickens handle challenges like weather, diet changes and exposure to bad bacteria and diseases.

  • Boosts vitality – Flocks getting oregano often show bright eyes, shiny feathers and steady egg production.


My Experience with Oregano in My Flock

With a flock of 40 chickens, I’ve made oregano part of our regular routine, and I’ve been really happy with the results. My birds are active, healthy and many of my hens are over six years old and still laying! While no single ingredient is a magic fix, oregano has definitely earned a place in my coop.


If you’ve been thinking about trying oregano, this might be the perfect time to start. It’s a simple, natural way to support your chickens from the inside out.


Have you used oregano with your flock? I’d love to hear what’s worked for you, drop your story in the comments on my Instagram!


Until next time,


– The Wing Lady


 

 

Chicken E-lixir

Chicken E-lixir - Daily Vitamin for Chickens

Chicken E-lixir is added to drinking water as a daily vitamin for keeping chickens healthy by promoting digestive health. For everyday use, it contains a unique blend of organic oregano essential oil, prebiotics, calcium, vitamins D & E and electrolytes.



 



coop recuperate packaging

Coop Recuperate - Chicken Coop Refresher Coop Recuperate is a safe and natural way to care for your coop. This coop refresher contains organic eucalyptus and lemongrass essential oil, along with diatomaceous earth to reduce odor and moisture and help improve the quality of your compost.



 




Sources

  1. PJVAS Study –Efficacy of Garlic (Allium Sativum L.), Oregano (Origanum Vulgare L.) and Turmeric (Curcuma Longa L.) Against Larval Development of Ascaridia Galli Eggs Isolated from Philippine Native Chicken https://pjvas.org/index.php/pjvas/article/view/96/90

  2. Frontiers in Veterinary Science – In vitro Anticoccidial Study of Oregano and Garlic Essential Oils and Effects on Growth Performance, Fecal Oocyst Output, and Intestinal Microbiota in vivo https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2020.00420/full

  3. ScienceDirect – Dietary oregano essential oil alleviates experimentally induced coccidiosis in broilers https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0167587715001099

  4. MDPI Animals Journal – A Potential Anthelmintic Phytopharmacological Source of Origanum vulgare (L.) Essential Oil against Gastrointestinal Nematodes of Sheep https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/13/1/45

  5. JHVM Society – Botanicals: a natural approach to control ascaridiosis in poultry https://ejournals.epublishing.ekt.gr/index.php/jhvms/article/view/16383/14591

bottom of page