Description
Latin Name: Origanum Vulgare
Origin Country: Greece
Oregano is a herb from the mint, or Lamiaceae family. People have used it for thousands of years to add flavor to dishes and to treat health conditions.
People around the Mediterranean region have used oregano for centuries in herbal medicine to treat many ailments, including:
- Immune System Support: One active agent in oregano is rosmarinic acid, which is a strong antioxidant that may support immune system health. Oregano has one of the highest antioxidant activity ratings, with 42 times the antioxidant punch of apples.
- Antifungal and Antibacterial,: Carvacol and thymol, two phytochemicals in oregano, are powerful antimicrobials. Research has shown essential oils from oregano may kill the foodborne pathogen.
- Anti-inflammatory Properties: Oregano 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.
- Useful for Upper Respiratory Infections: Oregano also has potential anti-viral activity, and a spray containing aromatic essential oils from five plants, including oregano, was found to significantly relieve symptoms “immediately” in those with upper respiratory infections.
- Cancer-Fighting Effects: Oregano extract has been shown to “lead to growth arrest and cell death in a dose- and time-dependent manner” in colon cancer cells.
