Oregano: From kitchen spice to holistic health powerhouse

It's a spice and an essential element of a home medicine cabinet. Folk medicine has treasured oregano for its medicinal properties for centuries, but over time, we've limited its use to sprinkling it on pizza. Discover why it's worth incorporating this plant into your routine more often.

Oregano, or common oregano, is sometimes called wild marjoram, though they are not the same plants. It originates from Southern Europe but grows in Asia, North America, and Africa. Currently, it's one of the most popular and healthiest spices.

Are you wondering what oregano is good for? First, it's important to emphasize that oregano is a medicinal plant, and the herb is used for its therapeutic properties. In natural medicine, oregano is highly regarded. It is used as a remedy that positively affects the digestive system. It helps with stomach aches, indigestion, diarrhea, gastritis, excessive intestinal fermentation, bloating, and liver and biliary tract issues.

Common oregano is also often used to treat respiratory tract infections. It is helpful for upper respiratory catarrh, cough, and difficult expectoration. Furthermore, this plant can strengthen the immune system. Scientific research has confirmed that oregano can lower blood pressure and blood sugar levels. According to scientists, regular consumption of oregano may prevent the development of lifestyle diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, or cancer. Common oregano is also used as a mild diuretic.

Oregano is a well-known spice, particularly popular in Mediterranean cuisine. It accompanies fish and meat, casseroles, salads, sauces, pasta, and, of course, pizza. Dried oregano leaves are even more aromatic than fresh ones. However, if you prefer the latter, remember to pick only small branchlets of leaves, avoiding larger stems.

Oregano oil is also worth mentioning. Applied externally, it helps treat wounds and skin infections and soothes insect bite symptoms. When consumed after dilution, it inhibits bloating, diarrhea, and stomach and intestinal catarrh. It acts antivirally, antibacterially, and calmingly. It is also recommended for colds as it has expectorant properties and fights infections.

On the other hand, an infusion of oregano can be prepared by pouring a cup (250 ml) of boiling water over two teaspoons of fresh leaves or one teaspoon of dried oregano. After 15 minutes, the infusion is ready to drink and should ideally be strained first. Oregano infusion is excellent for respiratory tract infections and positively impacts digestion, the immune system, and mental acuity.