benefits of oregano

Benefits of Oregano

1. The health benefits of oregano
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
2. Antibacterial properties
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.
3. Side effects and precautions
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.
4. Recipes
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.
5. Vitamin Boost
Oregano is a rich natural source of vitamin K, an important vitamin that is often overlooked. Learn more about vitamin K.
6. Antibacterial Punch
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.
7. Minerals
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!
8. Fiber Full
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!
9. Go fresh
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!
10. Perfume
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.