Oregano: Health Benefits and Uses

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About Oregano

Oregano (Origanum vulgare) is a popular culinary herb that is native to the Mediterranean region, although it is now grown all over the world.

The name “oregano” is derived from the Greek words “oros” meaning mountain and “ganos” meaning joy.

It has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, and modern research has revealed that it possesses a range of health benefits.

Oregano is a natural source of antioxidants and has antimicrobial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Latin Name

Origanum vulgare (Lamiaceae)

Taste/Fragrance

Oregano has a pungent, slightly bitter taste and a strong, aromatic fragrance.

Parts Used

Leaves / Essential Oil.

Main Constituents

  • Up to 4% volatile oil (including carvacrol, thymol, p-cymene, γ-terpinene, borneol, linalool, and geranyl acetate)
  • Tannins
  • Flavonoids
  • Phenolic acids
  • Terpenoids
  • Minerals, including calcium, magnesium, and potassium

Actions / Properties

  • Antimicrobial
  • Antifungal
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Antioxidant
  • Carminative
  • Diaphoretic – promotes sweating
  • Expectorant
  • Stimulant

Culinary uses

Oregano is a popular culinary herb and is used to add flavour to a variety of dishes, including pizza, pasta, and salads.

Medicinal uses

Oregano has been traditionally used to treat respiratory and digestive issues, as well as skin infections. It has also been used to relieve menstrual cramps and headaches.

Respiratory Health

Oregano has expectorant properties, which can help to loosen phlegm and relieve coughs. It is also antimicrobial, which means it can help to fight respiratory infections.

Digestive Health

Oregano has carminative properties, which can help to relieve gas and bloating.

It is also believed to help stimulate the production of digestive juices, which can aid digestion.

Skin Health

Oregano is antimicrobial and antifungal, making it useful for treating skin infections, such as athlete’s foot and ringworm. It can also be applied topically to help relieve acne and other skin conditions.

Menstrual Health

Oregano has been traditionally used to relieve menstrual cramps and regulate the menstrual cycle. It is believed to have a balancing effect on hormones.

Headaches

Oregano can be used to relieve headaches, especially those caused by tension or stress.

Magic

Gender: Masculine
Planet: Mercury
Element: Air
Powers: Protection, love, money, happiness, tranquillity
Magical Uses: Oregano has been used in spells to attract love, money, and happiness.
It is also believed to have protective properties and can be used to bring tranquillity to the home.

How to Use

Infusion

Infusion Drink 1 cup 3 times a day for:

  • digestive issues
  • respiratory infections
  • headaches

Topical use

Apply oregano essential oil topically to treat skin infections and acne.

Caution

Oregano essential oil is highly concentrated and should be diluted before use. It should not be used during pregnancy or by people with sensitive skin. Excessive use can cause digestive upset.

Patri Hernandez, CHC, Certified Health Coach & Certified Organic Skincare Alchemist
One day, during my menopausal rollercoaster, I had a spiritual awakening that connected me so deeply with nature, I thought I might sprout leaves. Suddenly, natural ingredients became my obsession—like an addiction, really. My body was magnetically drawn to them, and it wasn’t long before I found myself knee-deep in essential oils, herbs, and all things organic.

From there, it was a slippery slope (a delightfully scented one) into organic skincare formulation. The intoxicating aroma of essential oils, the thrill of crafting something pure with my own hands—I was hooked. It wasn’t enough to just use these natural wonders; I had to create them, surround myself with them. Now, I live on a piece of land where I grow my own organic fruits and vegetables (when the weather isn’t playing tricks on me), and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

When people ask what I do, I like to think about the view from my window—the endless sea—and say, “I live the life dreamers dream of.” It's All about the richness of living in harmony with nature. Watching others turn to natural ingredients because of something I shared with them—that’s my proudest achievement.

Oh, and just to keep things interesting, I’m also a bit of a nerd. I love computers, software, and all the techy stuff that seems like it wouldn’t fit with my earth-loving, oil-sniffing lifestyle. But hey, who says you can’t have the best of both worlds?

My ultimate goal? To help people kick the commercial product habit and embrace the natural, the organic, the truly nourishing. Life’s too short to settle for anything less.