25 Oregano Health Benefits, Uses, History And Side Effects
In this article, we are going to explain what is oregano, the history behind it, oregano health benefits, its uses, and its side effects.
Oregano’s Origin
The word “oregano” comes from the Greek word orī́ganon. The world is a synthetic word comprised of the words ”Oros” which means mountain and “Ganos” which means bright, so oregano means ”bright mountain” [1].
Oregano is native to Europe and has acclimatized to the Middle East. It is an aromatic herbaceous, perennial, and sandy plant, which thrives in limestone soils near the sea.
About 75% of the species of oregano are found in the eastern Mediterranean region and very little in the western world.
In Greece, oregano grows in the aridest and windswept mountains and islands of the country, from Crete to Peloponnese, to Macedonia, as well as to most of the Greek islands.
Oregano is 20-80 cm tall and its leaves are 1-4 cm long. It grows well in soils with a pH of 6-9 and can grow even in very poor, dry, and rocky soils. Its flowers have a white-purple color and bloom from June mainly to August, depending on the region.
If we carefully remove from the soil, small oregano plants with small roots in winter or early spring, we can transplant them into pots initially and later in the soil.
Planting takes place from October until the end of spring. The new plants will be particularly robust, especially in the second year of their cultivation.
Oregano is a hard and durable plant and does not need much water. We find it, in wild form, mainly in sunny and rocky soils throughout the Mediterranean. In the market we find it dried in various forms (bunches or plucked in glass or plastic jars or bags).
Its dried leaves and flowers can be preserved for years if stored in jars that close tightly and away from light. Cool oregano leaves are also stored in the freezer.
Oregano Nutrition Facts
Oregano is a good source of fiber. It contains volatile oils, sterols, and flavonoids. It is rich in vitamin C, E, K, A, manganese, magnesium, calcium, zinc, potassium, niacin, phosphorus, and iron as well as in 2-carotene.
It also contains lutein, zeaxanthin, cryptoxanthin, pinene, limonene, ocimene, caryophyllene, rosmarinic acid, and ursolic acid.
Dry oregano contains 3 to 5% essential oil in some areas and can reach and pass 7% and this happens only in areas of Greece and specifically in Crete, Amorgos, Gythio, and the Peninsula of Athos.
This handy table below summarizes oregano’s nutrition facts for every 100g of dried oregano.
Vitamins
| Nutrient | Unit | DV* |
|---|---|---|
| Vitamin A | 6903IU | 138% |
| Vitamin C | 50.0mg | 83% |
| Vitamin D | ~ | ~ |
| Vitamin E | 18.9mg | 94% |
| Vitamin K | 622mcg | 777% |
| Thiamin | 0.3mg | 23% |
| Riboflavin | 0.3mg | 19% |
| Niacin | 6.2mg | 31% |
| Vitamin B6 | 1.2mg | 61% |
| Folate | 274mcg | 69% |
| Vitamin B12 | ~ | ~ |
| Pantothenic Acid | ~ | ~ |
| Choline | 32.3mg | |
| Betaine | 9.8mg |
Minerals
| Nutrient | Unit | *DV |
|---|---|---|
| Calcium | 1576mg | 158% |
| Iron | 44.0mg | 244% |
| Magnesium | 270mg | 68% |
| Phosphorus | 200mg | 20% |
| Potassium | 1669mg | 48% |
| Sodium | 15.0mg | 1% |
| Zinc | 4.4mg | 30% |
| Copper | 0.9mg | 47% |
| Manganese | 4.7mg | 233% |
| Selenium | 5.9mcg | 8% |
What is the History of Oregano?
Since ancient times, oregano has been used for the benefit of mankind. The first recorded use was presented to Assyrians in 3,000 BC, who described many of its medical applications.
In many ways, oregano is a biblical medicine and few people understand that oregano was known as ”Bible hyssop”, and this means that it may have been used since the time of Abraham or perhaps even earlier.
The ancients certainly used oregano as a seasoning, and it is still used in this way. The difference is that they also used it as a medicine because its regular use helped in many cases of infections and diseases.
The Greeks used it extensively as a medicine and it was the most endearing recipe of hundreds of ancient Greek healers. For both the Greeks and the Romans, it was a symbol of joy and happiness and in their tradition, grooms and brides were crowned with laurel and oregano.
The Greek physician Dioscorides recommended it to those who showed loss of their appetite while the oregano decoction was believed to cure abdominal spasms and treat poisonings.
During the Middle Ages, Islamic doctors developed many uses for oregano as well as for its essential oil. In the following centuries, it was promoted as a remedy for a wide range of lung diseases. (If you are looking to get your hands on some high-quality, organic, oregano essential oil, take a look at this, from Healing Solutions).
In the US, oregano only became known at the beginning of the 20th century.
Oregano Health Benefits and Uses
Below, you can find over 25 health benefits of Oregano as well as use cases. We’ve added them in bullet point format for easier reading. Some, of these points, have links to research and studies, backing up each claim.
- Fights bacteria: Oregano has strong antibacterial properties that can help fight off infections.
- Anti-inflammatory: It can help reduce inflammation in the body, which is beneficial for conditions like arthritis.
- Rich in antioxidants: Oregano is packed with antioxidants that protect your cells from damage by harmful free radicals.
- Improves gut health: It may improve digestion and help treat some gastrointestinal disorders.
- Boosts immunity: Regular consumption of oregano can strengthen your immune system and increase resistance to illness.
- Promotes heart health: The herb contains omega-3 fatty acids which are known to promote heart health.
- Aids in weight loss: Oregano is low in calories but high in fiber, making it a good addition to a weight loss diet.
- Improves bone health: It’s rich in calcium, which is essential for strong and healthy bones.
- Fights cancer: Some studies suggest that oregano can inhibit the growth of cancer cells.
- Supports respiratory health: Oregano oil can help clear up respiratory issues like coughs and colds.
- Relieves menstrual cramps: The herb has been used traditionally to ease menstrual discomfort.
- Promotes skin health: Topical application of oregano oil may improve certain skin conditions like acne and eczema.
- Helps treat urinary tract infections (UTIs): Thanks to its antibacterial properties, it can be effective against UTIs.
- Boosts mood: Some research suggests that oregano could have antidepressant properties.
- Improves oral health: Oregano oil is often used as a natural remedy for toothaches and gum disease.
- Aids in detoxification: It helps your liver detoxify your body more efficiently.
- Anti-fungal benefits: Oregano oil can fight off fungal infections such as athlete’s foot or yeast infections.
- Repels insects naturally: When used topically, it can act as a natural insect repellent.
- Helps control diabetes: Oregano might help lower blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for people with diabetes.
- Improves eye health: It’s rich in vitamin A, which is essential for good vision.
- Supports liver health: Some studies suggest that oregano can help protect the liver from damage.
- Promotes better sleep: The herb has mild sedative properties and can promote relaxation and better sleep.
- Eases headaches: Oregano oil applied topically can provide relief from tension headaches.
- Fights parasites: Certain compounds in oregano are effective against intestinal parasites.
- Relieves muscle pain: Its anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe sore muscles
Oregano Fights Norovirus
A study by the University of Arizona concluded that carvacrol contained in oregano can fight Norovirus.
Norovirus is the most common cause of viral gastroenteritis outbreaks in children and adults, according to the CDC. Carvacrol strips the virus from its “armor” (a hard outer, protein cover), making it more vulnerable and easier to destroy.
Study leader Dr. Kelly Bright said: “Carvacrol could potentially be used as a food disinfectant, as well as surfaces, in combination with other antimicrobials. Further studies are needed, but carvacrol has a unique way of attacking the virus, which gives it a very interesting perspective.”
Experiments have shown that carvacrol acts directly on the virus’s armor, the hard protein casing of the virus, which contains its genetic material. It is precisely for this reason that scientists estimate that it is unlikely that the virus will develop resistance to it. If used as a disinfectant it will be long-lasting, not corrosive, fumes-free, and safe, experts say.
The results of the study were published in the latest edition of the journal Journal of Applied Microbiology.
How To Use Oregano
Decoction
In a briquette with water, boil 1 teaspoon of oregano for a few minutes, strain and drink.
Infusion
In a cup of boiling water add 1 teaspoon oregano, cover, and leave for 10-15 minutes. Drain and drink, preferably hot.
For the bathroom
Pour oregano decoction into the bathwater to soothe and stimulate your skin. (Boil for a few minutes, 80-100 g oregano in 1 liter of water).
Gargle
Gargle 2-3 times a day with oregano decoction, for mouth problems, ulcers and toothache
TIP: You can always prepare your own oregano oil and oregano essential oil at home. If you don’t want to deal with these kinds of stuff, you can always purchase online or from your local herbal store. For Oregano oil we recommend getting Oreganol™ and for oregano essential oil we recommend getting the one from Healing Solutions.
Precautions – Side Effects
Oregano oil is a safe but powerful substance and its use should not be done recklessly.
For example, avoid the therapeutic use of oregano during pregnancy. Also, avoid consuming oregano essential oils internally, as organic toxicity may occur. A number of commercially available essential oils are non-foodable, so be careful. Oregano Oil is different from Oregano Essential Oil.
Finally, consider consulting your doctor before drinking oregano if you drink alcohol on a regular basis or use medicines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Greeks use oregano?
Yes, Greeks use oregano mainly as a food seasoning in their kitchen. Oregano is used mainly on Cretan dakos salads, in tomatoes, in greek feta, in fried potatoes, in meats, and in olive oil.
Is Oregano Italian or Greek?
Oregano is a Greek Herb used by the ancient times by Greek physicians Hippocrates and Dioscorides. After Rome conquered Greece, the two worlds became essentially like one since they shared many cultural traits together. Ancient Romans are today’s Italians, hence the many similarities Greeks and Italians have together.
Where did oregano originate from?
The first recorded use was presented to Assyrians in 3,000 BC, who described many of its medical applications. Then the Greeks started to stud and use it extensively.
Is oregano considered a spice or herb?
Oregano is a herb.
What is oregano called in English?
Oregano, (Origanum vulgare), also called origanum or wild marjoram, aromatic perennial herb of the mint family (Lamiaceae) known for its flavourful dried leaves and flowering tops (source)
What does oregano taste like?
Oregano’s taste is peppery and assertive—sometimes even bitter or astringent. You can’t consume it by its own – only as a seasoning in foods.
Conclusion
Oregano is one of the many wonders mother nature has given to us, to fight illnesses and help us live healthier and better. Having a small oregano pot in your house will not only make it smell natural but will provide you a continuous supply of a magnificent herb that’s been used for ages for healing a myriad of cases.
What do you think about Oregano? Are you a fan of this herb? Would you like to add anything that our readers might find interesting? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section below. Also, make sure you share this article with your friends and family via social networks. It really helps educate more and more people that food is medicine and food nurishes our bodies.
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