OREGANO
Origanum vulgare
Common name: Oregano
Latin name: Origanum vulgare
Other names: Spanish Thyme, Wild Marjoram
Family: Labiatae
Habitat: Oregano is native to the mountainous parts of Mediterranean region and warm-temperate regions of Eurasia.
Description: Oregano is a perennial plant. It can grow to 80 centimeters in height. Leaves are dark green, oval and opposite. Flowers are white, pink or purple, formed in erect spikes.
Parts used: Leaves
Useful components: Rosmarinic acid, linalool, thymol, carvacrol, tannins, flavonoids, triterpenes
Medicinal use: Oregano has long been used as a medicinal herb in treatment of various conditions: fevers, diarrhea, indigestion, jaundice and vomiting. Recent studies have shown that Oregano displays anti-oxidant, anti-fungal and antibiotic properties. Due to its anti-oxidant functions, Oregano could become helpful agent in treatment of cancer, heart disease and high blood pressure. It is also useful as a digestive aid, since it promotes salivation. Used externally, Oregano is successful in treatments of rheumatism, muscle and joint pain, sores and swellings. Oregano oil can help combat toothache.
Safety: In some cases, Oregano could cause skin irritations. Some herbs could react with certain medication. Therefore it is advisable to contact your doctor/herbalist before consumption of any herb.