Origanum vulgare is an important culinary herb commonly used as food flavoring for its aromatic, slightly bitter taste famously used in the Italian- American cuisines. Oregano (Origanum vulgare) leaves and oil contain carvacrol, thymol, eugenol and rosmarinic acid. Oregano has been used in medicinal doses for respiratory and gastrointestinal disorders and as an antimicrobial. Oregano oil has been advocated as a treatment for lactation-related Candida infection of the nipples;[rx] More than that, oregano has established itself in folkloric medicine as a relaxant, antibacterial, and can boost the immune system. Studies suggest that it is high in antioxidants that can help prevent cancer.
Oregano is a woody perennial plant, growing 20–80 cm (8–31 in) tall, with opposite leaves 1–4 cm (1⁄2–1+1⁄2 in) long. The flowers are purple, 3–4 mm (1⁄8–3⁄16 in) long, produced in erect spikes in summer. It is sometimes called wild marjoram, and its close relative, O. Majorana, is known as sweet marjoram. Both are very widely used as culinary herbs, especially in Spanish, Italian, and French cuisine. Oregano is also an ornamental plant, with numerous cultivars bred for varying leaf color, flower color, and habit.
Scientific Name: Origanum vulgare
Other Name(s):
Carvacrol, Dostenkraut, European Oregano, Huile d’Origan, Marjolaine Bâtarde, Marjolaine Sauvage, Marjolaine Vivace, Mediterranean Oregano, Mountain Mint, Oil of Oregano, Oregano Oil, Organy, Origan, Origan Européen, Origani Vulgaris Herba, Origano, Origanum, Origanum vulgare, Phytoprogestin, Spanish Thyme, Thé Sauvage, Thym des Bergers, Wild Marjoram, Winter Marjoram, Wintersweet. Oregano (Spanish.), Suganda (Tagalog.), Torongil de Limon (Spanish.), Zuo shou xiang (Chinene.)
Oregano is more popularly known for its aromatic and balsamic flavor and is commonly used as mint flavoring in Mediterranean and Mexican foods.
Oregano is considered as a perennial plant that grows in warm temperate areas and is native in India, western and southern Eurasia and Mediterranean countries. Oregano was later introduced and cultivated in the Philippines and other Asian countries.
Oregano grows from 20–80 cm tall, with opposite heart-shaped leaves 3 to 9 cm long. Oregano flowers are purple, 3–4 mm long, produced in erect spikes. It is sometimes called wild marjoram, and its close relative O. Majorana is then known as sweet marjoram.
Oregano Traditional Health Benefits
Oregano as used as herbal medicine has its earliest beginnings even in early Egyptian times and has been traditionally used as herbal remedy for skin burns, cuts and bruises. Because of the minty flavor of oregano, it is also used as herbal remedy for sore throat, asthma, colds, coughs and flu.
Other traditional health benefits from Oregano.
- Antiseptic and fungicide. Oregano leaves and flowers are used to treat cuts and burns. Oregano contains thymol, a crystalline substance that has antiseptic and fungicide properties.
- Respiratory and stomach ailments. Oregano tea is taken as herbal medicine for respiratory and stomach ailments.
- Parasites in the intestines. Some early research shows that taking 200 mg of a specific oregano leaf oil product (ADP, Biotics Research Corporation, Rosenberg, Texas) by mouth three times daily with meals for 6 weeks can kill certain types of parasites; however, these parasites usually do not require medical treatment.
- Wound healing. Early research suggests that applying an oregano extract to the skin twice daily for up to 14 days after a minor skin surgery might reduce the risk of infection and improve scars.
- Treatment for Colds, Fever, and Indigestion. Oregano oil extracts are taken to alleviate symptoms of colds, mild fever, and indigestion.
- Antioxidant Oregano is known to have antioxidant properties that can protect against damaging agents.
- Relaxant. Oregano tea is believed to have a soothing effect and helps in getting restful sleep.
- Pain reliever. Tea made with oregano is also used to relieve flatulence [gas problems] and menstrual pain. Oil derived from oregano leaves offers relief from toothaches by rubbing a few drops of oregano oil on the teeth and gums after every meal and at bedtime to reduce bad breath.
- Source of fiber. The oregano herb is also a good source of fiber. [A diet high in fibre helps manage weight, reduces the risk of colon cancer, and increases the breakdown of cholesterol in the body].
- Source of Vitamins and minerals. Oregano is a relatively good source of calcium, iron, manganese, Vitamin A, C, and K. [However, because the quantity consumed is very little, one cannot depend on oregano as a wholesome source of vitamins and minerals].
- Sinus Inhalant. The minty aroma of Oregano is used as a steam inhalant that helps clear sinuses.
- Acne and pimple treatment. Oregano oil helps in controlling acne and pimples. Add two drops of oregano oil to any face wash when cleaning your face [recommended: twice daily].
- Arthritis, swelling and muscle pains. Externally crushed oregano leaves are mixed with oats and hot water and pounded into a paste. When applied over swelling, itching and aching muscles can ease the pain. It also provides relief when rubbed on affected joints [twice daily] in case of arthritis.
- Dandruff and lice control. A few drops of oregano oil rubbed on the scalp at night help control dandruff. You may experience a mild warming sensation, which is normal. Wash off with shampoo the next morning. Oregano oil helps remove lice from hair. Oregano oil helps cure infections of fingernails.
- Asthma attaches prevention. Oregano oil when rubbed on the chest and inhaled as vapors directly from the bottle several times a day helps clear the passage in cases of asthma.
- Acne.
- Allergies.
- Arthritis.
- Asthma.
- Athlete’s foot.
- Bleeding disorders.
- Bronchitis.
- Cough.
- Dandruff.
- Flu.
- Headaches.
- Heart conditions.
- High cholesterol.
- Indigestion and bloating.
- Muscle and joint pain.
- Painful menstrual periods.
- Urinary tract infections (UTI).
- Varicose veins.
- Warts.
Scientific Studies: Oregano (Origanum vulgare) Herbal Medicine
Antiviral efficacy and mechanisms of action of oregano essential oil and its primary component carvacrol against murine norovirus
- A study investigated the antiviral efficacy of oregano oil and its primary active component, carvacrol, against the nonenveloped murine norovirus (MNV), a human norovirus surrogate. Results suggest that oregano extract appeared to act directly upon the virus capsid and subsequently the RNA. The results further demonstrate that carvacrol is effective in inactivating MNV within 1 h of exposure by acting directly on the viral capsid and subsequently the RNA. Source: Journal of Applied Microbiology 2014 May.
Bio-efficacy of the essential oil of oregano (Origanum vulgare Lamiaceae. Ssp. Hirtum).
- This study investigated the bioactivity of the essential oil isolated from Origanum vulgare L. (EOL). The extract was analyzed the in vivo anti-inflammatory properties in a mouse-airway inflammation model and the in vitro antimicrobial activity, genotoxicity over the anaphase-telophase with the Allium cepa strain and its cytotoxicity/viability in A549 culture cells. Results have shown that the oregano extract presents antimicrobial activity against different Gram (-) and (+) strains, measured by disc-diffusion test and confirmed with a more accurate method, the AutoCAD software. It is postulated that oregano extract presents antibacterial, antioxidant, and chemopreventive properties and could play an important role as a bio protector agent. Source: Plant Foods for Human Nutrition. 2014 Dec.
Oregano Usage, Dosage
DOSING
The appropriate dose of oregano depends on several factors such as the user’s age, health, and several other conditions. At this time there is not enough scientific information to determine an appropriate range of doses for oregano (in children/in adults). Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult your pharmacist or physician or other healthcare professional before using.
There is no clinical evidence to support specific therapeutic doses of oregano; however, due to its wide use in foods, it has been designated GRAS (generally recognized as safe) status by the FDA. In a small study, 200 mg/day emulsified O. vulgare oil was administered for 6 weeks
Where can I buy Oregano?
You can buy some at any grocery store near the spices section. Oregano leaves may be available in fresh or dried forms. Oregano plants in pots can also be bought in some home depot shops or local plant nurseries that can be grown in your home garden.
Oregano oil can also be in capsule form available at your local health food store and should be taken according to the manufacturer’s directions.
While naturally extracted oregano oil is harmless. Be careful of artificial oregano oils because these are toxic and are for external use only.
Oregano oil extracts, dried powder, and capsules are also available in online stores such as Amazon listed is the Frontier Mediterranean Oregano Leaf.
How to use Oregano oil?
Oregano essential oil is the concentrated essence, or essential oil, of wild oregano. It takes approximately 100 pounds of oregano leaves to make a single pound of volatile oregano oil.
Oregano essential oil can be taken internally or used externally by topically applying directly on the affected area.
Oregano Oil, Internal Use:
- Adults, dilute 2 drops of oregano oil 120 ml of water and take 1-2 times daily.
- Children, dilute one drop in 120 ml of water and take 1-2 times daily.
Juice or any other natural liquid may be used in place of water, if desired.
Oregano OIl, External Use:
One part of oregano oil can be diluted with two parts of olive oil and may be applied directly to the affected area.
If irritation of the skin may occur, dilute the oregano with more olive oil. If symptoms persist, stop usage and consult a medical practitioner.
Oregano Tea Preparation
- Chop fresh oregano leaves
- add 1 tablespoon for every cup of water
- boil for 15 to 20 minutes
- let it steep then strain
- take one cup once a day until the condition improves
Dried leaves are more potent. To make tea, steep 15g of oregano leaves in 250mL of water.
Oregano Use Warnings and Side Effects
When properly prepared and consumed in moderation or as small amount included in daily diet, Oregano is considered safe even for children and pregnant women.
However, when taken more than the recommended dosage, this may result in overdose and may have the following side effects:
- stomach upset
- allergic reaction
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding. There are no sufficient studies made to determine the side effects of oregano taken in medicinal amounts to infants and babies. Stay on the safe side, avoid taking Oregano in herbal medicine dosages when pregnant and while breastfeeding.
Bleeding disorders: Oregano might increase the risk of bleeding in people with bleeding disorders.
Allergies. In rare cases, the Oregano herb has caused allergic reactions to people allergic to the Lamiaceae plant family.
Diabetes. Oregano might lower blood sugar levels. If under medication, consult your doctor before taking oregano herbal medicine.
INTERACTIONS
Medications for diabetes (Antidiabetes drugs)Interaction Rating: Moderate Be cautious with this combination.Talk with your health provider.
Oregano might decrease blood sugar. Diabetes medications are used to lower blood sugar. In theory, taking some medications for diabetes along with oregano might cause your blood sugar to go too low. Monitor your blood sugar closely. The dose of your diabetes medication might need to be changed.
Some medications used for diabetes include glimepiride (Amaryl), glyburide (DiaBeta, Glynase PresTab, Micronase), insulin, metformin (Glucophage), pioglitazone (Actos), rosiglitazone (Avandia), and others..
Medications that slow blood clotting (Anticoagulant / Antiplatelet drugs)Interaction Rating: Moderate Be cautious with this combination.Talk with your health provider.
Oregano might slow blood clotting. In theory, taking oregano along with medications that also slow clotting might increase the chances of bruising and bleeding.
Some medications that slow blood clotting include aspirin, clopidogrel (Plavix), dabigatran (Pradaxa), dalteparin (Fragmin), enoxaparin (Lovenox), heparin, warfarin (Coumadin), and others..
Taxonomy
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 use, with a tasteless remarkable and pungent. It can pollinate other more sophisticated strains, but the offspring are rarely better in quality.
The related species Origanum ones (Greece, Turkey) and O. syriacum (West Asia), have similar flavors. A closely related plant is marjoram from Turkey, which differs significantly in taste though because phenolic compounds are missing from its essential oil. Some varieties show a flavor intermediate between oregano and marjoram.
Subspecies
Accepted subspecies:[rx]
- O. v. subsp. glandulosum (Desf.) Its. – Tunisia, Algeria
- O. v. subsp. gracile (K.Koch) Ietsw. (= O. tyttanthum) has glossy green leaves and pink flowers. It grows well in pots or containers, and is more often grown for added ornamental value than other oregano. The flavor is pungent and spicy.[10] – Central Asia, Iran, India, Turkey, Afghanistan, Pakistan.
- O. v. subsp. hirtum (Link) Ietsw. – (Italian oregano, Greek oregano) is a common source of cultivars with a different aroma from those of O. v. gracile. Growth is vigorous and very hardy, with darker green, slightly hairy foliage. Generally, it is considered the best all-purpose culinary subspecies. – Greece, Balkans, Turkey, Cyprus
- O. v. subsp. virens (Hoffmanns. & Link) Ietsw. – Morocco, Spain, Portugal, Balearic Islands, Canary Islands, Azores, Madeira
- O. v. subsp. iridium (Martin-Donos) Nyman – widespread from Corsica to Nepal
- O. v. subsp. vulgar – widespread across Europe + Asia from Ireland to China; naturalized in North America + Venezuela
Cultivars
Example cultivars of oregano include:
- ‘Aureum’ – golden foliage (greener if grown in shade), mild taste: It has gained the Royal Horticultural Society‘s Award of Garden Merit[rx]
- ‘Greek Kaliteri’ – O. v. subsp. hirtum strains/landraces, small, hardy, dark, compact, thick, silvery-haired leaves, usually with purple undersides, excellent reputation for flavor and pungency, as well as medicinal uses, strong, archetypal oregano flavor (Greek kaliteri: the best)
- ‘Hot & Spicy’ – O. v. subsp. hirtum strain
- ‘Nana’ – dwarf cultivar
Cultivars traded as Italian, Sicilian, etc. are usually hardy sweet marjoram (O. ×majoricum), a hybrid between the southern Adriatic O. v. subsp. hirtum and sweet marjoram (O. Majorana). They have a reputation for sweet and spicy tones, with little bitterness, and are prized for their flavor and compatibility with various recipes and sauces.
References
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