Benefits of Oregano

1. Oregano is an important culinary and medicinal herb that has been used in medicine and cooking for thousands of years with a number of potential health benefits. It is a species of Origanum, belonging to the mint family .....

Antibacterial properties

2. Oregano oil is a powerful antimicrobial, because it contains an essential compound called carvacol.Oregano has shown antimicrobial activity in a number of studies. A group of Portuguese researchers found that Origanum vulgare essential oils were effective against 41 strains of the food pathogen Listeria monocytogenes2. .....

Side effects and precautions

3. Eating oregano can cause stomach upsets in some people. In addition, those who are allergic to plants belonging to the Lamiaceae family (such as including basil, lavender, mint, and sage) should be cautious, as they may also develop an allergic reaction to oregano. .....

Recipes

4. Oregano means mountain joy and is a wonderfully aromatic, flavorful herb popularly used in Spanish and Mediterranean cooking. Oregano also goes by the name marjoram (though it is not to be confused with sweet marjoram). Oregano adds depth and savor to any dish, but goes particularly well with tomatoes, eggplant, and any meat. Sprinkle some in your scrambled eggs or salad dressings, too. .....

Vitamin Boost

5. Oregano is a rich natural source of vitamin K, an important vitamin that is often overlooked. Learn more about vitamin K. .....

Antibacterial Punch

6. Oregano oil in many specialty and health food shops for this very reason. Oregano contains thymol and carvacrol, two oils which have remarkable bacteria fighting power. In fact, researchers recently discovered that oregano is a better treatment for giardia than the prescription drug commonly prescribed to treat the illness. .....

Minerals

7. Oregano is high in iron, manganese, and other important minerals for health. Its one of the healthiest and tastiest herbs you can try, so if you havent stopped reading yet to run out and buy some, scoot! .....

Fiber Full

8. Oregano is rich in fiber (the amount is similar to chicory). Fiber is necessary to provide bulk for better elimination. As Mark always says,fiber is king! .....

Go fresh

9. When buying oregano, its best to purchase fresh leaves instead of the dried variety. Yes, a little shakity shake is easier and more convenient, but you also miss out on those beneficial anti bacterial and anti oxidant oils. Fresh oregano is pretty inexpensive. In fact, its very easy to grow yourself! .....

Perfume

10. Oregano makes a lovely scent for your skin similar to patchouli. It is guaranteed to drive the ladies wild, gentlemen. Because it is a commonly used ingredient in pizzas and spaghetti, dont be surprised if people, especially former carb addicts, bite you. .....

Use full

11. Oregano is used for respiratory tract disorders such as coughs,asthma,croup, andbronchitis. It is also used for gastrointestinal (GI) disorders such asheartburn andbloating. Other uses include treating menstrual cramps, rheumatoid arthritis, urinary tract disorders including urinary tract infections(UTIs),headaches, and heartconditions. .....

Vitamins

12. Oregano is a wonderful herb, both to use in your cooking and to use therapeutically as needed. Its name means mountain joy,and oregano was revered as a symbol of happiness by the ancient Greeks and Romans.This does this medicinal herb a great disservice, since today we know that oregano contains vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as fiber, folate, iron, magnesium, vitamin B6, calcium, and potassium. Additionally, oregano, which is sometimes called .....

Antioxidants for Immune System Support

13. 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 Antibacterial and May Even Kill MRSA

14. Carvacol and thymol, two phytochemicals in oregano, are powerful antimicrobials. Research has shown essential oils from oregano may kill the foodborne pathogen Listeria4 and the superbug MRSA (making it a useful addition to hand soaps and disinfectants). .....

Anti inflammatory Properties

15. Oregano contains beta caryophyllin (E BCP), a substance that inhibits inflammation and may also be beneficial for conditions including osteoporosis and arteriosclerosis,8 as well as metabolic syndrome. .....

Useful for Upper Respiratory Infections

16. 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.If you come down with a cold or the flu, oregano oil can also be useful. Generally, the higher the carvacrol concentration, the more effective it is. Interestingly, oregano encourages sweat production as a mode of deto .....

Cancer Fighting Effects

17. Oregano extract has been shown to lead to growth arrest and cell death in a dose and time dependent manner in colon cancer cells. A phytochemical in oregano, carnosol, has also been evaluated for anti cancer property in prostate, breast, skin, leukemia, and colon cancer with promising results. .....

Oregano in Your Cooking

18. Oreganos warm, aromatic flavor works well with many foods (not just Italian). Try adding it to your salad dressings, vegetables, or eggs, for starters. Beyond this, one of the best uses for oregano in your cooking is adding it to meat prior to cooking, which may help reduce the toxic compounds created during the cooking process. .....

Some of its varied benefits

19. Oregano leaves are a good source of manganese, iron and Vitamin A. Regularly eating these fresh leaves can help boost the immune system.Oregano is known to relieve menstrual cramps. Chew a few leaves thrice a day to seek relief.Severe cold and lung congestion can be treated using oregano oil. Add a few drops of this oil to a glass of water and drink for about three to five days. .....

Culinary Uses

20. Oregano is a very flavorful herb that is often used in Italian, Greek and Spanish cooking. It is often used in seasoning blends, including Italian Seasoning, and pairs well with meats, tomato dishes, and eggs.Oregano is a warm and aromatic yet slightly bitter herb in the mint family. Good quality oregano has a pungency that numbs the tongue. The best quality oregano is grown in a warm, dry climate. The name is derived from the Greek, meaning moun .....

Thymol and carvacrol

21. Oregano contains thymol and carvacrol, two oils which have remarkable bacteria fighting power. In fact, researchers recently discovered that oregano is a better treatment for giardia than the prescription drug commonly prescribed to treat the illness. .....

Oregano oil

22. Oregano oil is not generally considered safe during pregnancy, though culinary use of oregano leaf is considered fine. Due to its highly potent nature, it should always be diluted for use on the skin or when taking internally. I am not a doctor or medical professional,, and you should always consult your doctor before taking any herbs or beginning any health routine. .....

Selection and storage

23. Fresh as well as dried oregano are readily available in the herb stores all around the year. If permitted, try to buy fresh herb over the dried form since it is superior in flavor and rich in essential oils, vital vitamins and anti oxidants like beta carotene, vitamin C, and folates.Choose fresh oregano leaves featuring vibrant green color and firm stem. It should be free from mold, discoloration or yellowing. Try to buy dried oregano from the or .....

Excellent source

24. This marvelous herb is an excellent source of minerals like potassium, calcium, manganese, iron, and magnesium. Potassium is an important component of cell and body fluids that helps control heart rate and blood pressure caused by high sodium. Manganese and copper are used by the body as co factors for the antioxidant enzyme,superoxide dismutase. Iron helps prevent anemia. Magnesium and calcium are important minerals for bone metabolism. .....

An Effective Anti Bacterial

25. The volatile oils in this spice include thymol and carvacrol, both of which have been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus. In Mexico, researchers have compared oregano to tinidazol, a commonly used prescription drug to treat infection from the amoeba Giardia lamblia. These researchers found oregano to be more effective against Giardia than the commonly used prescription drug. .....

Potent Anti Oxidant Activity

26. Oregano contains numerous phytonutrients including thymol and rosmarinic acid that have also been shown to function as potent antioxidants that can prevent oxygen based damage to cell structures throughout the body. In laboratory studies, oregano has demonstrated stronger anti oxidant capacity than either of the two synthetic anti oxidants commonly added to processed food BHT (butylated hydroxytoluene) and BHA (butylated bydroxyanisole). .....

A Nutrient Dense Spice

27. Our food ranking system qualified oregano as a good source of fiber. Fiber works in the body to bind to bile salts and cancer causing toxins in the colon and remove them from the body. This forces the body to break down cholesterol to make more bile salts. These are just some of the reasons that diets high in fiber have been shown to lower high cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of colon cancer.Oregano also emerged from our food ranking syste .....

History

28. Oregano is native to northern Europe, although it grows throughout many regions of the world. It has been recognized for its aromatic properties since ancient times, with the Greeks and Romans holding oregano as a symbol of joy and happiness. In fact, it was a tradition for Greek and Roman brides and grooms to be crowned with a laurel of oregano. .....

Individual Concerns

29. Oregano is not a commonly allergenic food and is not known to contain measurable amounts of oxalates or purines. .....

Oregano Nutritional Profile

30. Oregano is an excellent source of vitamin K and a very good source of manganese. It is also a good source of iron, dietary fiber, and calcium. .....

In Depth Nutritional Profile

31. In addition to the nutrients highlighted in our ratings chart, an in depth nutritional profile forOregano is also available. This profile includes information on a full array of nutrients, including carbohydrates, sugar, soluble and insoluble fiber, sodium, vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, amino acids and more. .....

Planting

32. Oregano loves the sun; ensure your placement has full, strong sun for strong flavor; some folks plant later in the season for assured warm weather.Oregano can easily be started from seeds, though you can also use cuttings from an established plant.Oregano makes a good companion for any vegetable in the garden. .....

Care

33. Oregano doesn t need quite as much water as most herbs. As the amount of watering depends on many variables, just water when the soil feels dry to the touch.Allow oregano to grow to about 4 inches and then pinch or trim lightly to encourage a denser and bushier plant. .....

Natural health enthusiasts promote oregano oil

34. Some natural health enthusiasts promote oregano oil as a means to fight cold and flus, keep your digestive tract healthy, and soothe problem skin.Most of us would take just about anything if we thought it might keep us healthy during cold and flu season. It turns out that there s some evidence to suggest that an herb you likely have in your kitchen might be able to help stave off sickness this winter. .....

Anti fungal properties

35. Some studies have shown that in lab cultures, oregano oil puts up a strong fight against Candida albicans, the bacteria that causes the fungal infection candida. Other research found it may have a similar effect against the mold fungis Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus niger. .....

Treatment of psoriasis

36. Oregano oil is helpful for skin conditions like cold sores, muscle aches, nail fungus, joint pain, and dandruff. Try diluting it with a carrier oil like jojoba, sweet almond, or grapeseed, at 10 to 12 drops oregano oil per ounce of carrier oil. However, don t use oregano oil on broken or sensitive skin, as it can be irritating. There is some anecdotal evidence suggestions that it may be effective for treatment of psoriasis, an inflammatory skin .....

Natural insect repellent

37. Oil of oregano contains many compounds, and one of them is carvacrol a natural insect repellent. This compound is also found in plants like mint and thyme. Try putting a few drops of oil on outdoor furniture test first on an inconspicuous area to make sure it doesn t stain or apply a dilution of it to unbroken skin when heading outdoors. .....

Fight against antibiotic resistance

38. Some people believe that we can stave off antibiotic resistance by turning to natural solutions like oregano oil more often. One lab test in 2001 found that oregano oil was effective in killing staphylococcus bacteria, and another published laboratory study out of the UK found that it showed effectiveness against 25 different bacteria. .....

It tastes terrible

39. Don t expect that you ll enjoy taking oregano oil, even if you love Greek food. It has a much more potent taste in oil form, so be prepared! .....

Be careful

40. Oregano oil in its pure form is so strong, it should only be used when diluted; try a ratio of one part oregano oil to three parts carrier oil, such as olive oil. Undiluted oregano oil can be irritating to the skin and mucous membranes. It is also possible to purchase diluted oregano oil. .....

Short term use

41. In Alive, clinical herbalist Michelle Lynde recommends using oregano oil for acute conditions, by taking four to six drops at a time for seven to ten days. .....

Its not for everyone

42. The therapeutic use of oregano oil should be avoided in infants and children, and pregnant or nursing women. It also should be avoided by people with high blood pressure or a heart condition. It s always a good idea to talk to your preferred medical professional before starting a new wellness routine, and to disclose your use of alternative therapies in case of counter indications with other medications or treatments. .....

You can use it on your skin

43. Oregano oil is helpful for skin conditions like cold sores, muscle aches, nail fungus, joint pain, and dandruff. Try diluting it with a carrier oil like jojoba, sweet almond, or grapeseed, at 10 to 12 drops oregano oil per ounce of carrier oil. However, don t use oregano oil on broken or sensitive skin, as it can be irritating. There is some anecdotal evidence suggestions that itmay be effective for treatment of psoriasis, an inflammatory skin co .....

It s also used for GI problems

44. There s some evidence that oil of oregano has anti fungal or antiviral properties, it s thought to be helpful for some gastrointestinal issues. One small study showed that treatment with oregano oil may be useful for parasite infections, but further study is needed. .....

Greek Oregano

45. Greek oregano (Origanum vulgare hirtum) is probably already in your kitchen. The oregano variety available in grocery stores is usually Greek oregano, which has a pungent flavor that makes it a useful culinary herb. A high phenolic acid content gives this herb its strong flavor. .....

Mexican Oregano

46. Although it is not a member of the Origanum genus, cooks and gardeners refer to Poliomintha maderensis as Mexican oregano.Crushed Mexican oregano leaves produce a strong aroma and flavor, making this variety a frequent ingredient in Mexican cooking. Other herbs, including Lippia graveolens and Plectranthus amboinicus, are sometimes called Mexican oregano. .....

Italian Oregano

47. Italian oregano (Origanum x majoricum) is a hybrid of common oregano and sweet marjoram (Origanum majorana). Hardy in USDA zones 6 through 9, this variety is sterile and must be propagated from cuttings or by division. It has delicate, light green leaves and off white flower spikes and grows into an upright mound that does not spread. Italian oregano combines the pungent flavor of Greek oregano with the mild flavor of sweet marjoram to produce a .....

Ornamental Varieties

48. Gardeners use some oregano varieties as ornamental plants. Hopflower oregano (Origanum libanoticum) is a primarily ornamental variety that is hardy to USDA zone 4b. Its lavender bracts resemble hop flowers, and its trailing growth habit makes it an attractive landscape plant. Other ornamental oregano varieties include Origanum vulgaris Heiderose, which has pink flowers and grows up to 3 feet tall, and Origanum vulgaris Compactum, which is a dark .....

Fight Infection

49. The ability of oregano oil to conquer infections is very clear, showing a very powerful effectiveness against candida albicans, aspergillus mold, vaginal infections, staff infections, and more. One study straight from the United States Department of Agriculture even reported that oregano oil presented such a strong action against germs that it could easily fight Salmonella and E. coli. .....

Protection Against Harmful Organisms

50. you have ever consumed undercooked meat, non purified water, or faced the daily routine that most of us endure in the United States and elsewhere, a number of unwanted and harmful organisms are likely to be currently residing inside of your body. .....

Source of Essential Nutrients

51. Oregano oil is loaded with vital minerals like magnesium and zinc as well as a host of vitamins such as C and E. An added bonus to the multiple uses of oregano oil, the oil can actually function as a source of essential nutrients when used on a routine basis. Oregano oil is sufficiently high in zinc, magnesium, iron, calcium, potassium copper, manganese, and niacin. When considering the severe deficiencies of these substances that are so prevalen .....

Digestive Aid

52. Your overall health will revolve around the health of your gut and colon. Without proper digestion, food will begin to compact and actually rot within the lengthy 25 to 30 feet of the digestive tract. While I highly recommend using an oxygen based colon cleanser to clean out the pounds of compacted fecal matter from the digestive tract, another key factor to consider here is stopping the build up in the first place. Oregano oil is known to specif .....

Menstrual Aid

53. Irregular, painful periods along with negative menopause effects are among one of the most commonly reported issues facing women today. One of the best responses to this is oregano oil, which can actually help aid in supporting irregular menstruation as well as protecting against negative menopause attributes. For women, this is a substantial bonus to the already lengthy list of uses and effects. .....

Fight Aging

54. Oregano oil can help to slow down the process of cellular deterioration, and as a result can impact the rate at which negative aging effects occur. The large number of antioxidants found in oregano oil can also aid in the protection against age related issues like eye disease, muscle degeneration, and numerous nervous system disorders. .....

Allergy Support

55. Those suffering from allergies will find the soothing and therapeutic properties of oregano oil in regards to allergic reactions to be highly appealing. Oregano oil can produce sedating effect on the hyper sensitivty of allergies, which ultimately leads to a real relief for those with allergy concerns. Instead of harsh medications with a long list of side effects, oregano oil can offer a serious natural alternative when it comes to curtailing the .....

Weight Loss

56. Despite its reputation as a natural immune booster, oregano oil also packs a punch against unwanted body fat. As demonstrated by a recent study that focused on the fat burning capabilities of oregano oil, the active ingredient in oregano oil known as carvacrol can actually modulate genes and reduce irritation in white adipose tissue. .....

Eases Discomfort

57. Painful conditions such as arthritis, backaches, or carpal tunnel can wreak havoc on your daily lifestyle. Without proper response, the issue can even become more prevalent let alone dangerous. Oil of oregano can be used topically to go deep inside the skin and help to assist in relieving the discomfort that stems from many of these issues. .....

Combat the Cold

58. Coming down with a case of the common cold or even the seasonal flu can be a major detriment to your way of life. Oregano oil can help to add a layer of protection to your immunity when used appropriately. If you feel a cold coming on, try placing 3 6 drops into an empty capsule and take 2 3 times daily before meals. Continue this regiment for 5 10 days.Organic oregano is much different than the traditional oregano oil you may find at your local .....

Taxonomy

59. Many subspecies and strains of oregano have been developed by humans over centuries for their unique flavors or other characteristics. Tastes range from spicy or astringent to more complicated and sweet. Simple oregano sold in garden stores as Origanum vulgare may have a bland taste and larger, less dense leaves, and is not considered the best for culinary uses, with a taste less remarkable and pungent. It can pollinate other more sophisticated .....

Chemical Components

60. The essential oil of oregano is composed primarily of monoterpenoids and monoterpenes, however the concentrations of the specific compounds vary widely depending on geographic location and other varying factors. Over 60 different compounds have been identified with the primarily ones being carvacrol and thymol ranging from 0 over 80% while lesser abundant compounds include pcymene,terpinene, caryophyllene, spathulenol,germacrene D, fenchyl alcoho .....

Nail fungus

61. Dilute a drop of Oregano Oil with carrier oil and apply regularly to unsightly finger and toenails. Also rub into peeling, fungal athletes footinfections. .....

Psoriasis and eczema

62. Psoriasis and eczema can also be improved for many with regular Oregano Oil treatments. .....

Thrush

63. Thrush is yeast in the mouth. Gargle and swallow 2 drops of oil in water 3 times a day. .....

Vaginal yeast infections

64. Remove applicator from half a tampon, soak tampon in olive oil, add 2 or 3 drops of Oregano Oil, replace applicator, and insert. Repeat several times per day. If oregano oil is used around genital area, be certain it is diluted and carefully check for sensitivity ahead of time! .....

Dandruff

65. Dandruff is frequently based in a yeast infection of the scalp. Add a drop of Oregano Oil to a dab of shampoo in your hand, and massage it into the scalp when washing your hair. Or add a few drops of oil to the entire shampoo bottle, and shampoo frequently. .....

Mouth ulcers andcold sores

66. Mouth ulcers and cold sores can respond to oregano oil, also has been an effective remedy for herpes.Work to neutralize the poison and lessen the pain from bee stings, spider bites, and even snake bites with oregano oil (and see a doctor immediately!) Mix Oregano Oil with water in a spray bottle and spritz liberally to help repel mosquitoes and other irritating bugs. .....

Research on Oil of Oregano

67. Researchers have uncovered numerous benefits to using oregano and extracted oil of oregano. But buyer beware, these significant health benefits are not as attainable if the oregano is not the true substance. True oil of oregano offers many exciting remedies for a variety of ailments. .....

Herbal Renaissance

68. Herbal Renaissance, Steven Foster credits oregano as having been employed to treat indigestion, diarrhea, nervous tension, insect bites, toothache, earache, rheumatism and coughs due to whooping cough and bronchitis (primarily for it s antispasmodic effects). .....

The Cure is in the Cupboard

69. The Cure is in the Cupboard that is dedicated to unveiling the health benefits of oregano and oil of oregano. He notes that wild oregano is a veritable natural mineral treasure house, containing a density of minerals that would rival virtually any food. .....

Supermarket Remedies

70. Oregano is one of Natures finest preservatives, states Ingram in another book, Supermarket Remedies. The author suggests that if oregano is used with foods such as meat, eggs, milk, or salad, you will greatly halt the growth of microbes and, thus, reduce the risk for food poisoning. .....

Children how to treat them

71. To administer oregano oil to children or babies rub it into their feet. If there is no broken skin or rash it will not burn, and it is very soothing. .....

Ear infections

72. Ear infections are best treated by rubbing oil of oregano around the outside of the ear. It may need to be diluted with oil when treating children. Do not put oil of oregano directly in the ear canal. .....

Parasites

73. Oregano oil has shown to be effective in killing many types of parasites, including giardia and pinworms, along with other nasty creatures than can inhabit our intestines. Mix 2 3 drops of oregano oil with 1 teaspoon of olive or coconut oil, taking it up to 10 times per day. .....

Respiratory Problems

74. Lung problems can be difficult to treat if the lungs become infected with a virus, bacteria or candida, or if you suffer from asthma or allergies. Oregano oil is highly volatile, which means the molecules become airborne easily, therefore it is great for treating the respiratory system. .....

Stomach problems

75. Regano has served as a cure for upset stomach caused by food poisoning, parasites, ulcers, bacterial and fungal infections. Take 3 to 7 drops with or after meals. Food poisoning may require more aggressive doses. Oil of oregano can safely be taken 10 times a day or more. .....

Skin Disorders

76. Adult acne, psoriasis and eczema are often candida related and may require topical treatment with oil of oregano. Mix 2 3 drops of oregano oil into 1 teaspoon of olive or coconut oil and apply it to sensitive skin. Do not apply oil of oregano full strength to broken skin or rashes. .....

Scabies

77. Oregano oil is very effective against scabies. Apply it several times a day. Mix 2 3 drops of oregano oil with 1 teaspoon of olive or coconut oil and rub it well into each scabies spot. Continue treatment until the scabies are eradicated. .....

Teeth and Gums

78. When you have a toothache, rub oregano oil around the infected tooth. If it is too strong, mix it with a bit of oil. It will kill infection and reduce pain. For diseased gums rub the oregano oil over the gums, and take it several times a day. .....

Viral Attacks Herpes Hepatitis or Shingles

79. When you feel the onset of a cold, flu, herpes or shingles, you should immediately increase your dosage to 3 drops of oregano oil every one to two hours to keep levels high while fighting an attack. You can also apply the oil on your skin.Hepatitis and herpes are two viral infections that have responded well to treatment of oregano oil. Remember that taking oregano oil more often during the day is better than taking a lot all at once. .....

Pain and inflammation

80. Oregano oil to be a potent agent for reducing pain and inflammation. Its antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, and antiparasitic properties enable it to fight off infection of all kinds. The Greek philosopher Aristotle noticed that tortoises who ate snakes, then ate oregano. This appeared to prevent them from being poisoned, so he began to recommend it as an antidote for poison. .....