Oregano - A Multipurpose Herb

Oregano is a well-liked herb and a common flavor enhancer in many different cuisines around the world. It conveys a strong flavor, warmth, and a hint of mild sweetness to food. This flavorful herb has long been used in traditional medicine and as a staple in cooking. All oregano preparations, including fresh, dried, and oil, are known to have essential health-improving qualities. Origanum vulgare is the scientific name for a native herb to the Mediterranean region. This article reviews oregano – A multipurpose herb, and its other uses and benefits to health.

 

What is oregano?

Oregano is a culinary herb commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine, known for its aromatic leaves and distinct flavor. A variety of foods use this herb as a natural flavoring and preservative. In addition to these, oregano is also sold as an essential oil and a capsule. For thousands of years, people have used it to flavor food and treat illnesses.

The main part of the oregano plant that is used is the leaves, and its flavors differs from astringent, zesty, and bitter to mild and sweet. The herb tastes and smells better when it is dried than when it is fresh. This miracle herb contains some important nutrients as well as bioactive substances with strong anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties.

 

Oregano – A multipurpose herb

What are the different types of oregano?

There are several different types of oregano, with the two most common being Origanum vulgare (Greek oregano), and Origanum majorana, commonly known as marjoram. Greek oregano has a robust flavor and is often used in savory dishes, while marjoram has a milder taste and is frequently used in herb blends and teas.

 

What are nutritional properties of oregano?

Oregano comes in a variety of forms, and each one has a unique antioxidant and nutrient profile. There are many impressive and beneficial nutrients in oregano. Protein, fiber, and carbohydrates can be found in one teaspoon of dried oregano leaves. It contains many minerals, including calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and iron, which help to improve general health and wellbeing. The vital vitamins K, lutein, zeaxanthin, beta-carotene, and folate are also present in oregano.

Active ingredients found in the essential oils include thymol, ocimene, carvacrol, limonene, terpinene, and caryophyllene. These substances are thought to possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that guard against free radical-caused cell damage and reduce the risk of chronic illnesses.

 

What are the health benefits of oregano?

Following are potential health benefits of oregano:

1. Antibacterial properties:

Carvacrol and thymol make up the majority of oregano essential oil's ingredients. These might possess antimicrobial qualities. Researchers found that the effects of oregano oil on various microbes and the oil showed "significant antibacterial activity." This indicates that oregano's constituents may help fight illnesses that no longer respond to antibiotics.

2. Manages diabetes levels:

Oregano compounds may aid in the control of type 2 diabetes. Some studies found that origanum extract may improve insulin resistance; control the expression of genes that affect lipid and carbohydrate metabolism; and repair damaged liver and kidney tissues. Moreover, the use of oregano oil and leaves found to control high blood sugar.

3. Protecting against cancer:

Because it naturally contains a lot of antioxidants, oregano not only has the ability to counteract free radical damage but also to support the prevention of some cancers. Rosmarinic acid and thymol, two bioactive compounds found in oregano, have been shown in numerous studies to kill cancer cells and stop their growth. This fragrant herb can also stop colon cancer from spreading and growing. Additionally, origanum  majorana may be able to slow or stop the spread of metastatic breast cancer.

4. Anti-inflammatory properties:

Oregano oil constituents have thymol and rosmarinic acid, which have anti-inflammatory effects. Further, studies shown that oregano extract has been shown to reduce inflammation that may contribute to autoimmune arthritis, allergic asthma, and rheumatoid arthritis.

5. Remedies viral infections:

Oregano extracts contain the bioactive compound carvacrol, which has potent antiviral properties. Carvacrol directly targets the RNA of some viruses, which preventing the viral pathogen from infecting the human body.

6. Encourages gut health:

The abundance of fiber in oregano promotes gut health and encourages the smooth operation of the digestive system. Fiber is an essential nutrient for the digestive system to function properly, and add bulk to the stool, maintain regular bowel movements, and effectively eliminate waste. Regularly including this herb into your diet may help to prevent gastrointestinal issues like bloating and indigestion.

7. Treats skin diseases:

Oregano's potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties help treat psoriasis, eczema, rashes, and other skin conditions. It is renowned for its antiseptic properties as well. The topical application of creams, ointments, and lotions containing oregano essential oil helps to reduce skin infection and inflammation. Additionally, its extracts are useful for regenerating new skin cells and repairing damaged tissues.

Oregano herb help treat skin conditions

8. Combat infections:

Oregano's beneficial active ingredients, thymol and carvacrol, are thought to have strong antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. These energetic substances aid the body's defenses against bacterial infections. Fresh oregano leaves or essential oil can be added to the diet to boost defense mechanisms and prevent infections. Because oregano is rich in vitamins A and C and eating these herbs may also increase antioxidant levels in the body.

9. Augments heart health:

The amazing herb oregano is full of healing qualities that are known to protect heart cells. Evidence suggests that oregano extracts can help lower blood pressure by enhancing vessel blood flow. Additionally, it lowers LDL cholesterol levels and prevents blood vessel fat from building up, improving cardiac muscle function and reducing the risk of heart disease.

10. Boosts mood:

Oregano and its essential oil are excellent for boosting mental and emotional health. Oregano's active ingredient, carvacrol, raises dopamine levels and alleviates depression. The regular addition of oregano extract is known to improve mental health and wellbeing.

 

11. Other possible health benefits:

According to many studies, oregano products are beneficial for:

• Croup
• Bronchitis
• Painful menstrual cramps
• Bleeding after a tooth extraction
• Coughs
• Asthma
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Urinary tract infections and disorders
• Headaches
• Allergies
• Skins sores
• Diarrhea
• Indigestion
• Colds
• Boost overall health

 

People apply oregano oil to the skin for:

• Acne
• Athlete’s foot
• Ringworm
• Insect bites and as an insect repellant
• Muscle and joint pain
• Warts
• Wounds
• Rosacea
• Psoriasis
• Dandruff
• Canker sores, toothache, and gum disease
• Varicose veins

 

How do you use oregano in cooking?

The leaves can be used dry or fresh to give a variety of foods a Mediterranean flavor. It goes well with tomatoes and is frequently used in pasta sauces and pizzas. People also add it to baked goods, vegetable dishes, and legumes, such as lentils and chickpeas, fish and chili dishes.

Here are some tips for adding it to food:

• Start with a small quantity and increase it gradually because too much can make food bitter.
• Add oregano to meat or chicken while cooking for flavor.
• Include it in stuffing’s or marinades. Olive oil should be drizzled over the sprinkled mozzarella cheese and tomato slices.

Try the following to tame the flavor:

• To add an herb flavor to bread or pizza dough, chop some herbs.
• Garnish a salad with fresh oregano leaves.
• For the best flavor, add toward the end of cooking.
• To extract more flavor from the leaves, chop, crush, or grind them.
• Added flavor to omelets, frittatas, and stir-fries.

While dried oregano leaves should be added while seasoning so that heat releases its flavor, fresh oregano leaves can be used as a garnish similar to cilantro.

 

Dried oregano leaves used in cooking for its flavor

What are risks of using oregano?

For the majority of people, oregano as a supplement, oil, or herb is probably safe. Before beginning any supplement, for two weeks prior to surgery, stay away from oregano products as they may increase the risk of bleeding. Before using, dilute essential oils, either in water for a steam bath or in a carrier oil like olive oil. Oregano oil should not be present in concentrations greater than 1%; otherwise, skin irritation may result.

Applying or ingesting essential oils topically can both be harmful. To avoid toxicity, people should make sure they are using each product the right way. The body's capacity to absorb copper, iron, and zinc may be hampered by oregano. It might also reduce blood sugar. People should consult their doctor, especially if they are already taking medication or have a medical condition.

 

Conclusion:

Oregano is a culinary herb that is widely used in Mediterranean cooking. It is aromatic and versatile, which gives a variety of dishes depth and character thanks to its distinctive flavor and potential health benefits. Oregano is a well-liked herb in kitchens all over the world because it is used both fresh and dried to flavor soups, stews, sauces, and many other savory recipes.

 

FAQ:

Q1. How do you grow oregano at home?

Answer: If you want to grow oregano at home, plant it in a sunny spot with well-draining soil, or use a pot if you're short on space. Regularly water the plant, letting the soil dry out a little bit between watering, and trim the leaves as needed for culinary purposes. Oregano is a hardy herb that can be grown indoors or outdoors and is relatively simple to grow.

Q2. Is oregano the same as marjoram?

Answer: No, Marjoram and oregano are distinct herbs. Marjoram has a milder, sweeter flavor than oregano, despite the fact that they both come from the same botanical family and have similar properties.

Q3. Can oregano be used as a natural remedy for colds or flu?

Answer: According to some theories, oregano has some antimicrobial qualities and may have some advantages for respiratory health. To fully understand its effectiveness as a home remedy for colds or the flu, more study is needed.

Q4. Can oregano oil be used for medicinal purposes?

Answer: Oregano oil has been used for a variety of medical purposes and is thought to have antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. It can be used as a natural treatment for some conditions like skin infections, respiratory problems, and digestive problems. Oregano oil can be potent and may interact with some medications, so it's important to use it cautiously and seek medical advice before using it for medicinal purposes.

Reference used:

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/266259#risks