Oregano is utilized as a home cure for a variety of illnesses and is more than just a flavoring herb for meals. The therapeutic properties of oregano, however, are not supported by sufficient scientific data.
Oregano is said to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunity-boosting qualities because of its phytonutrients, including carvacrol.
What is Oregano?
The scientific name for oregano, a well-liked herb, is Origanum vulgare. It contributes to improving the flavor of your food and improving your general health.
Southwest Eurasia and the Mediterranean region are the native home of oregano. For countless years, it has been used as a food ingredient and an alternative treatment. Curiously, because it is a member of the Lamiaceae family, it is closely related to mint. Because of this, the two have many of the same biological components and shared health advantages.
The component of the plant that is used the most is its leaves. Its flavor ranges from astringent, bitter, and spicy to mild, sweet, and pleasant. The climate where it grows affects the flavor. The herb tastes and smells better when it is dried than when it is fresh.
In addition to being used as a herb, it is also offered as an essential oil and a capsule. Because oregano oil is a very strong version of the herb and is so concentrated, it must always be diluted.
Health Benefits
Many health benefits can be obtained from oregano. Due to its support for the immune system and capacity to guard against a wide range of illnesses, it has historically been employed both as a culinary and therapeutic herb.
The majority of studies on the therapeutic benefits of oregano, however, have focused on its essential oil or extracts rather than the fresh or dried herb that can buy in supermarkets. I want to be clear that while oregano is almost probably beneficial for health when used in cooking, this is mostly an assumption based on its historical use and research utilizing its more potent forms.
May Relieve Depression
You might find that oregano and its essential oil improve your mood.
According to a 2019 study on rats, oregano essential oil may assist to lessen depressive-like behavior, which is brought on by persistent unpredictable stress (CUS).
This herb’s constituent carvacrol has been connected to raising dopamine levels in mice. When taken frequently and with little attention, it has also been reported to contribute to feelings of wellbeing.
The British Journal of Nutrition also makes the case that oregano leaf extracts could improve mental health.
May Improve Heart Health
Your heart can be protected by oregano.
Several studies suggest that oregano extracts may aid in controlling blood pressure.
Moreover, it aids in lowering hyperlipidemia, a disorder marked by elevated blood fat levels.
There haven’t been many research on oregano extracts or essential oils, despite the fact that numerous essential oils from plants can lower LDL cholesterol levels.
May Aid in Digestion
Around 0.5 grams of fiber are present in one teaspoon of oregano. Despite the modest amount, it might have a significant effect on your digestive system.
Fiber can raise the bulk of your stools and induce peristaltic activity, which effectively passes food through the digestive tract and excretes it. This makes fiber a crucial component of a healthy digestive system. Moreover, fiber improves nutritional absorption and maintains intestinal health, so the food you eat benefits you more.
May Help Manage Diabetes
You can manage your diabetes with oregano herbal tea.
In-vitro and in-vivo antidiabetic benefits of this herb are mentioned in a 2019 study. Oregano was discovered to help decrease high blood sugar levels.
An autoimmune inflammatory condition, type 1 diabetes. According to research, oregano extracts’ anti-inflammatory and antioxidant characteristics aid to relieve it.
Potential Antibacterial Activity
Potential antibacterial and antimicrobial effects of oregano exist.
The presence of thymol and carvacrol in the herb may be the cause of these qualities, according to research reported in the journal Process Biochemistry. These substances might support the body’s defenses against a variety of germs that can harm the skin, gut, and other areas of the body.
Also, a 2019 study found that these substances aid in preventing the growth of the Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) bacterium in dairy and meat.
According to research conducted at the Harvard Medical School, oregano oils can combat 11 bacteria that have become resistant to antibiotics.
While oregano and its other varieties may be medicinal due to these qualities, more studies are required to determine whether including this herb in the diet has any positive effects.
Possibly Rich in Carvacrol
Carvacrol, a substance, is abundant in oregano. Many aromatic plants, including thyme, bergamot, and pepperwort, also contain it. It has been utilized in traditional medicine for a variety of illnesses, and research points to potential therapeutic advantages.
Carvacrol may have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties, according to numerous research. Also, it aids in the battle against food- and lifestyle-borne ailments.
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Possible Antioxidant Potential
Researchers from Mexico claim that herbs like oregano contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that aid to treat chronic diseases in a 2017 study that was published in the Plants journal.
Thymol and rosmarinic acid are also present in oregano. These two work together as potent antioxidants to lessen oxidative stress in the body. Thus, including it in your diet may aid in boosting your immune system!
May Improve Heart Health
Your heart can be protected by oregano.
Several studies suggest that oregano extracts may aid in controlling blood pressure.
Moreover, it aids in lowering hyperlipidemia, a disorder marked by elevated blood fat levels.
There haven’t been many research on oregano extracts or essential oils, despite the fact that numerous essential oils from plants can lower LDL cholesterol levels.
How to Use Oregano in Recipes
On pizza, as a garnish for cooked pasta meals, or mixed into sauces, soups, and stews, fresh oregano works wonderfully.
Oregano in dried form is significantly more adaptable. Here are a few suggestions to get you going:
- With nutritional yeast and garlic powder, it’s also delicious on oven fries.
- Bake it into savory whole grain breads.
- tea with oregano (you can also use fresh leaves for this).
- Use it to season Italian and other Mediterranean meals like vegan pizza, dry almonds, pasta, and more.
- Use it in marinades and salad dressings.
- Over salads, grain bowls, beans, and scrambles, sprinkle it.
