Oregano

Parts Usually Used

The leaves

Description of Plant(s) and Culture

Oregano is an herb with purple flowers 3-4 mm in size. It’s a perennial plant that grows to about 20-80 cm in hight.

Where Found

Oregano is originally from Western and Southwestern Eurasia as well as the Mediterranean. However, it grown worldwide as a culinary herb and is easily grown indoors, with adequate light.

Medicinal Properties

Oregano contains carvacrol which has been the subject of various research studies into its antifungal, antibacterial, antimicrobial anti-cancer and antiviral properties. According to HeartMD Institute : Research has shown that carvacrol really does have the ability to kill certain harmful bacteria. In one trial, oregano oil inhibited the growth of the Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains of pathogenic bacteria.

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Biochemical Information

Oregano leaves contain antioxidant, protective compounds including triterpenes, phenols, oleanolic acid and rosmarinic acid. However, the most potent components of oregano oil are thymol and carvacrol.

Legends, Myths and Stories

The word oregano is derived from Classical Greek ὀρίγανον (orī́ganon), from which the Spanish orégano, and Latin orīganum are derived. This is a compound Greek term that consists of ὄρος (óros) meaning “mountain”, and γάνος (gános) meaning “brightness”, thus, “brightness of the mountain”.

Uses

Traditionally, herbalists utilized oregano for gastrointestinal complaints, including bloating and heartburn, as well as for respiratory ailments such as asthma, croup, coughs, and bronchitis. Historical practitioners also administered it for menstrual cramps, rheumatoid arthritis, headaches, and urinary tract disorders. Externally, folk traditions applied the herb for skin concerns such as acne, oily skin, dandruff, warts, canker sores, rosacea, and psoriasis, as well as for insect and spider bites, gum disease, toothaches, muscle pain, and varicose veins.

The essential oil of oregano was historically ingested for allergies, arthritis, sinus pain, earaches, and fatigue, and it was applied topically as an insect repellent. Additionally, oregano was widely employed across various cultures as a culinary spice.

How Sold

Fresh herb, dried herb, capsule, tea, essential oil.