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Culinary

What are the Benefits of Oregano?

By Mandi Rogier
Updated May 17, 2024
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Oregano is most commonly thought of as an Italian seasoning. Frequently found on pizza, pasta, and chicken, oregano is a standard inclusion on the typical spice rack. The benefits of oregano reach far beyond providing a flavorful kick for the dinner menu.

Oregano is rich in antioxidants and vitamin K. Fresh oregano is not only delicious, but surprisingly nutritious. Antioxidants are believed to prevent many types of cancer and fresh oregano has 12 times more antioxidants than oranges, when compared pound for pound. Vitamin K helps to keep the cardiovascular system healthy. Other nutrients found in oregano include vitamins C and A, iron, and manganese.

If that wasn’t enough, other benefits of oregano come from its fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. Both dietary elements help lower cholesterol and high blood pressure. Fiber is an important component for healthy digestion.

While dried oregano may still contain some nutrients, the best way to reap these myriad benefits of oregano is by using fresh herbs. Oregano is widely available in grocery stores and can add a savory touch to nearly any dish. It is commonly paired with tomatoes or eggplants. Oregano can also be grown at home both indoors and outdoors.

The benefits of oregano don’t end in the kitchen, either. Oregano essential oil can be found in health food stores. This distilled version of the herb is extremely potent for many different uses.

Applied externally, oil of oregano can soothe rashes and treat bacterial and fungal infections. Acne and psoriasis often respond favorably to an application of two to three drops of oregano oil mixed with a teaspoon of extra virgin olive oil. This oil also deters pesky insects such as mosquitoes, fleas, and lice from biting. The essential oil should be diluted in another oil such as extra virgin olive oil or coconut oil before application, and tested on a small patch of skin to ensure that an allergic reaction does not occur.

Two to three drops of oil of oregano in a glass of juice, milk, or water can purportedly heal several ailments. Its anti viral properties can treat congestion, sore throats, and digestive discomforts. The anti bacterial properties of the plant may protect against infections, and its anti oxidant qualities are believed to slow aging.

Oil of oregano should not be taken by breastfeeding or pregnant women. Always consult a health care provider before attempting this or any method of herbal treatment. While oregano is perfectly safe as an herb, a different variety of oregano is used in the essential oil and this plant may irritate some individuals.

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Discussion Comments

By golf07 — On Jun 09, 2011

Oregano oil has many benefits both externally and internally. lt can also be used topically for certain skin conditions. The most important thing to remember here is that it must be diluted. Oregano oil is very strong and if applied without being diluted, it can really burn (I know this from experience). I had a spot on my chin that I was trying to clear up.

Never dilute your oils with water, but use any kind of vegetable oil. All you have to do is use one drop oregano oil to one drop of olive oil and this will take away the burning sensation.

By sunshined — On Jun 09, 2011

@John57 - I have also used oregano oil for sore throat and cold symptoms, and have had good results. This is a very potent oil, so a little bit goes a long way.

Another way I like to use this oil is in spaghetti sauce. Pouring a drop from the bottle is usually too strong, so I will take a toothpick and insert the tip into the bottle of oregano oil. I then take the toothpick and stir it in the spaghetti sauce. This gives a wonderful oregano flavor without being too strong, and you still get all the health benefits of the oil.

By John57 — On Jun 07, 2011

When I feel a sore throat coming on, oregano oil is the first thing I go for. I keep a bottle of this and some empty gel capsules just for this purpose. Oregano is a very strong oil with high antibacterial properties and works at getting rid of my sore throat every time.

I just put a few drops in an empty capsule and repeat 2-3 times a day until I no longer have any signs of a sore throat. I used to get a few colds every winter and spring, and since I started doing this I have not had one turn into a bad cold yet. I think the key is to begin taking something right away and not wait until it gets bad.

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