Oregano is an important medicinal and culinary herb. It has been used for thousands of years.
It species belongs to the mint family.
Its name comes from the Greek words oros (mountain) and ganos (joy). And oregano was revered as a symbol of happiness by the ancient Greeks and Romans. Spawning long standing traditions such as brides wearing wreaths of oregano in their hair.
The chemicals that give the herb its unique and pleasant smell are thymol, pinene, limonene, carvacrol, ocimene, and caryophyliene. It contains vitamins, A, C, E, and K, as well as fiber, folate, iron, magnesium, vitamin B6, calcium and potassium.
Oregano has antioxidant properties which support immune system building. One active agent is rosmarinic acid which is a strong antioxidant. Oregano has one of the highest antioxidant activity ratings with 42 times the antioxidant punch of apples.
Oregano is Anti-fungal, antibacterial, and may even kill MRSA. Carvacol and thymol, two phytochemicals in oregano, are powerful antimicrobials. Research has shown essential oils from oregano may kill the foodborne pathogen Listeria as well as MRSA.
Oregano is an anti-inflammatory. It contains beta-caryophyllin (E-BCP), a substance that inhibits inflammation and may also be beneficial for conditions including osteoporosis and arteriosclerosis, as well as metabolic syndrome.
Oregano is has potential anti-viral activity. Research shows, that a spray containing aromatic essential oils from oregano and other herbs, significantly relieved symptoms (immediately) in those with upper respiratory infections.
Oregano is very useful for colds, and flu. Generally, the higher the carvacrol concentration in the herb, the more effective it is. It acts as a diaphoretic and induces sweat as a method of detoxing. This helps remove phlegm from the lungs.
Oregano has cancer fighting effect. Oregano extract has been shown to “lead to growth arrest and cell death in a dose-and time-dependent manner” in colon cancer cells. Carnosol, a phytochemical in oregano has also been evaluated for anti-cancer properties in prostate, breast, skin and leukemia and colon cancer with favorable results.
When used in cooking, oregano can be rubbed into meat to help reduce the toxic compounds of the meat released during the cooking process.
Oregano is useful in fighting off many types of infections. It helps fight Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) because it inhibits the growth of E. Coli, Proteus and Psuedomonas aeruginosa.
It fights against yeast infections especially those resistant to the commonly used drub Diflucan.
Fights against foodborne illnesses including Listeria, Salmonella, E. Coli, and Shigella dysenteria.
It is also good applied topically for foot and nail fungus.
Under your tongue to treat for parasites or infections.