If you've ever ate a spaghetti or a pizza, you've most likely consumed Oregano. More than just a flavorful spice to some of the world's favorite foods, it is also a powerful tool in herbal medicine! Once thought of as a "cure-all" in ancient Greece, scientists have confirmed that it is pretty close to perfection. Oregano can be used to fight against bacterial and fungal infections, aid acute chronic infections affecting the gastrointestinal and respiratory tracts, and treat toothaches or painful joints.
History & Folklore
Oregano has been called the "quintessential Greek herb" thought to bring good luck and good health. In ancient Greece, oregano was a diverse herb used superstitiously to ward off evil spirits, culinarily to flavor food, and medicinally to treat a variety of ailments. Ancient Greeks even believed that cows that grazed in fields full of oregano had tastier meat! It is said that Hippocrates applied oregano oil to treat skin infections from psoriasis and cuts, and he used it to cure stomachaches. Today, through scientific research, we know that oregano oil has antibiotic and antioxidant properties.
Habitat & Cultivation
Oregano is an upright perennial herb that can grow up to 3 feet high. It has stalky, red stems, elliptical leaves, and clusters of maroon and pink flowers. Oregano was native to Europe and is naturalized in the Middle East. The oregano plant thrives in chalky soils lain close to the ocean or sea. It is planted in spring and gathered when in flower in summertime.
Uses
Strong Antiseptic Oregano and its oil fight against many bacteria and fungi; notably, E. Coli and Candida strains
Infections of Gastrointestinal and Respiratory Tracts Oregano fights against gastroenteritis, dysentery, bronchitis, coughs, and tonsillitis
Inhibit Gut Flora relieves gas, bloating, and abdominal discomfort
Toothaches and Painful Joints Diluted oil can be applied to treat toothaches and painful joints
Warts Oregano contains the compound carvacrol, which has been studied for its antiviral properties. These properties may make oregano oil helpful for treating warts.
Parts used
Aerial Parts
Essential Oil
Key Actions
Antibacterial
Antifungal
Antiseptic
Constituents
Volatile Oil
Tannins
Resin
Sterols
Flavonoids
References
- Chevallier, Andrew, FNIMH; Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine - 550 Herbs and Remedies for Common Ailments; 3. Edition 2016; ISBN: 978-0-2412-2944-6; Page 242-243.
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