Oregano, the humble Healer in your Kitchen
Oregano vulgare, Oregano, also known as Spanish thyme and wild marjoram, is most renowned for its Greek variety, considered the best in the world. is a versatile herb revered for its therapeutic and nutritional benefits.
Its name "oregano" derived from the Greek words "Oros / Όρος" (mountain) and "Ganos / Γάνος" (brightness), symbolizing the herb's ability to brighten the mountains.
In ancient Greece, oregano was a symbol of joy and happiness. It was used in wedding wreaths and brewed as tea to relieve cramps, bloating, and poisoning. Ancient Greeks used oregano for its therapeutic properties, making tea to relieve cramps, poisoning, and bloating.
Today, research confirms oregano's numerous health benefits, both nutritionally and therapeutically. Rich in iron, vitamin C, and powerful antioxidants like thymol, carvacrol, and caryophyllene, oregano supports overall health in various ways:
Traditional Uses:
Treats skin sores, aching muscles, asthma, cramping, diarrhea, indigestion, and colds.
Boosts overall health and supports digestion.
Scientific Benefits:
Antioxidant Power: Oregano helps eliminate free radicals, reducing oxidative stress, which can lead to chronic illnesses such as cancer and diabetes.
Digestive Health: It aids digestion, calms the nervous system, and relieves muscle cramps and indigestion.
Anti-inflammatory: Its active compounds act as strong anti-inflammatory agents, potentially preventing chronic conditions like heart disease, stroke, and allergies.
Antibacterial and Antiviral: Oregano oil has shown significant activity against bacteria, including antibiotic-resistant microbes, and may be effective against upper respiratory infections, acute bronchitis, and pneumonia.
Cancer Prevention: Oregano extracts have demonstrated antitumor activity and are potentially toxic to cancer cells.
Weight Management: The carvacrol in oregano may aid in weight loss by reducing fat accumulation and inflammation as shown in animal studies.
How to Use Oregano:
Culinary Use: Fresh or dried oregano leaves can be added as seasoning along salt and pepper to any type of foods, and salads. My favourite way is sprinkling a little bit of Greek oregano on toasted spelt sourdough slice of bread, with salt and a drizzle of olive oil.
Topical Application: Oregano essential oil should be diluted with a carrier oil before applying to the skin. Conduct a patch test to avoid allergic reactions.
Supplements: Oregano oil supplements are available, but it's advisable to follow package instructions and consult a doctor before use.
Tiny but powerful, oregano is a potent antioxidant, antifungal, antiparasitic, and antimicrobial herb that supports heart health, lowers cholesterol, and helps fight chronic diseases. Though oregano has multiple health benefits, it is advisable to consult a doctor before using it as an adjunct treatment.