Herbs are such a key part of any healthy diet. They are packed with flavour and health benefits.
This week we look at oregano. The name Oregano comes from the Greek “oros” meaning “mountain” and “ganos” meaning “beauty, joy”. The meaning, then, is mountain beauty.
In Ancient Egypt, oregano was massaged into the body after bathing, as well as being used in ointments. The Romans used it in the kitchen and as a medicinal herb. In modern times the plant has also been praised for its antidepressant qualities and ability to enhance mental wellbeing.
Oregano’s gifts go even further – research has shown its broad-spectrum activity against multiple pathogens. Oregano contains carvacrol which is known for its antimicrobial, antioxidant, antiviral and anticancer activities. It is also a natural decongestant and antihistamine.
Look at this incredible video which shows under the microscope how a mixture of tea tree and oregano essential oils work together to break down bacteria:
Oregano is a tasty herb to use in the kitchen. It has a warm flavour with some kick. Use it in salads, with tomatoes, on meat – the choices are endless.
If you are unwell with a cold, you can buy oregano oil capsules, or mix one drop of the essential oil with a carrier oil and rub on the soles of the feet.
Wishing you all health and happiness,
Dr Maria Amasanti
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29744941/
- https://www.researchgate.net/publication/232240488_Oregano_Overview_of_the_Literature_on_Health_Benefits
- https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpls.2020.601335/full#:~:text=Carvacrol%20is%20one%20of%20the,a%20fragrance%20in%20cosmetic%20products.
- https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/british-journal-of-nutrition/article/monoamine-reuptake-inhibition-and-moodenhancing-potential-of-a-specified-oregano-extract/A45E1651074FA8A97547AE758B815F0E
- https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/british-journal-of-nutrition/article/monoamine-reuptake-inhibition-and-moodenhancing-potential-of-a-specified-oregano-extract/A45E1651074FA8A97547AE758B815F0E