Oregano is an herb with multiple virtues whose benefits are combined with its rich and aromatic flavors. Originating from the sunny lands of the Mediterranean, it is not only a culinary ingredient appreciated for centuries, but also a veritable open-air pharmacy. Antioxidant, digestive support, anti-inflammatory; explore all the benefits of oregano in this article!
Oregano
What is oregano?
Oregano (Origanum vulgare) is a herbaceous plant in the Lamiaceae family . Native to Europe, Western Asia and North Africa , it is widely distributed in Mediterranean regions. It usually grows in meadows, hills and mountains. But it is also often grown in gardens because of its culinary use and medicinal properties.
Oregano thrives in warm, sunny climates . It is well suited to Mediterranean climates, but it can also be grown in other regions with hot, dry summers. It can be sensitive to frost and prefers warmer temperatures
Typically, oregano is grown from seeds . It prefers well-drained, sunny soil , but it can also tolerate some shade. The plant requires little maintenance once established and can be harvested several times as it grows. The leaves are often used fresh or dried as a seasoning in cooking.
Besides its culinary use, oregano is also used in traditional medicine for its medicinal properties. It is sometimes made into essential oil for its antimicrobial and aromatic effects. Additionally, oregano is often grown as an ornamental plant for its pretty purple or pink flowers.
In what forms can I obtain it?
Today, oregano is available in several forms, each suited to different uses. To give you some ideas, here are the main forms in which it is possible to obtain oregano:
- Dried Leaves: This is one of the most common forms of oregano available in the market today. Oregano leaves are harvested, dried and packaged for use as a seasoning in cooking. They generally retain their flavor and aroma well when stored in a cool, dry place.
- Ground dried oregano: Some brands also offer ground dried oregano, which means the oregano leaves are ground into a fine powder. This shape can be convenient for use in spice blends or when you want even distribution of flavor throughout a dish.
- Fresh oregano: If you have the option, you can also purchase fresh oregano at farmers' markets, specialty grocery stores, or even grow your own oregano plant in your garden. Fresh leaves often have a more intense flavor than dried leaves and can be used in the same way.
- Oregano Essential Oil: Oregano essential oil is extracted from the leaves and flowers of the oregano plant. It can be used for medicinal, aromatic and cosmetic purposes due to its antimicrobial properties and distinctive fragrance. Be careful, oregano essential oil is very concentrated and should be used with caution and diluted according to the appropriate recommendations.
- Dried oregano capsules: some food supplements contain oregano in the form of capsules or tablets. These products can be used for medicinal purposes, including to support the immune system or for their antimicrobial properties. It is important to follow package directions and consult a healthcare professional before taking any supplement.
It is based on the needs and preferences of each person that it is appropriate to choose the form of oregano that best meets the needs and expectations, whether for cooking, health or other applications.Top of formBottom of the form
The benefits of oregano
For physical health
Oregano offers a range of physical health benefits thanks to its richness in antioxidant and antimicrobial compounds. These properties can help protect cells from oxidative damage and fight infections.
- Antioxidant effects: Antioxidants found in oregano, such as flavonoids and phenols, help neutralize free radicals in the body, thereby reducing oxidative stress and contributing to overall cellular health. Regular consumption of oregano can therefore help prevent various diseases linked to oxidative stress, such as cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, etc.
- Antimicrobial properties: Compounds such as carvacrol and thymol found in oregano have demonstrated powerful antimicrobial properties, capable of fighting a wide range of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses and fungi. These properties make it a valuable natural remedy for treating infections, strengthening the immune system and supporting health.
- Anti-inflammatory effects: Certain compounds in oregano, such as phenolic acids, have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation in the body, thereby alleviating symptoms associated with inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and digestive disorders. Oregano may therefore be beneficial in relieving pain, swelling and discomfort caused by inflammation, thereby promoting overall well-being.
For digestion
Additionally, oregano has been known for its digestive benefits for centuries, thanks to its carminative and digestive properties that help relieve gastrointestinal disorders.
- Improved digestion: oregano stimulates the production of digestive juices, thus promoting efficient digestion. It can help relieve bloating, cramps and gas, making the digestive process easier. Its digestive action can also help reduce discomfort after meals and promote optimal absorption of essential nutrients.
- Carminative properties: The carminative properties of oregano help relieve gastrointestinal spasms and expel intestinal gas. This can help relieve abdominal discomfort and prevent bloating. By supporting regular and comfortable digestion, oregano can contribute to maintaining a healthy and balanced digestive system.
For the immune system
Finally, oregano provides valuable support to the immune system through its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, which help strengthen the body's natural defenses against infections and disease.
- Boosts the immune system: The antimicrobial compounds found in oregano help fight pathogens, thereby boosting the immune system's ability to protect the body against infections. By boosting the immune response, oregano may help reduce the risk of infectious diseases and promote faster recovery if infected.
- Disease prevention: Thanks to its high antioxidant content, oregano helps protect cells against oxidative damage, thereby strengthening the overall health of the body and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. By combining its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, oregano may play an important role in disease prevention, supporting long-term well-being.
Conclusion
In conclusion, oregano turns out to be much more than just an aromatic herb used in cooking. With its antioxidant compounds, antimicrobial properties and digestive support, it offers a range of health benefits. Whether as a seasoning in your favorite dishes, as an infusion to relieve digestive ailments, or even in supplement form, oregano deserves a special place in your daily routine.
