Oregano ( Origanum vulgare L. ) is a plant widely used in the kitchen , but it is also excellent to relieve flu or colds among other ailments.
We immediately identified it as a aromatic herb, with an intense and somewhat spicy flavor , with which we perfume pizzas, salads and fish or vegetable stews. But it is also a powerful medicinal plant .
Oregano is presented as a fresh or dried plant to prepare as an infusion, tincture, liquid extract, capsules, suppositories and in bottles of pure essential oil.
Properties of oregano
Oregano has numerous properties that have been widely studied:
- Antioxidants
- Antimicrobial
- Antitumor
- Antiseptics
- Antispasmodics
- Antifungal
- Painkillers
- Digestive
- Healing
- Diuretics
- Expectorants
Benefits of oregano
Oregano is a very versatile medicinal plant that has multiple health benefits for humans. In fact, according to studies by the World Health Organization (WHO), it is estimated that about 80% of the world's population uses plant extracts or active compounds from oregano for primary health care. Here are some of the benefits of this aromatic herb:
- Helps prevent diseases: The antioxidant properties of oregano give it the ability to protect cells against oxidative damage, which causes degenerative diseases and aging. The antioxidant effect of this aromatic herb is due to the presence of hydroxyl groups in phenolic compounds.
- Relieves nasal congestion: Oregano is used to relieve congestion in the respiratory tract in cases of bronchitis, laryngitis and pulmonary emphysema.
- Powerful antioxidant: fresh oregano has a high antioxidant action. In fact, it is much higher than that of most fruits and vegetables, which helps protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. It is considered that free radicals play a role in promoting aging and the development of some diseases, such as cancer and heart disease.
- May help lower cholesterol: In a study with a group of 80 people with slightly high cholesterol, 48 received diet and healthy lifestyle advice to help lower their cholesterol. 32 participants also received 25 ml of oregano oil extract after each meal. After 3 months, those who received oregano oil had lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and higher HDL (good) cholesterol, compared to those who did not receive it.
- It is a digestive tonic, very useful for awakening appetite and relieving bloating, gastrointestinal spasms, dyspepsia and specific diarrhea.
- It hinders the formation of gases and prevents flatulence , which is why it is recommended after a heavy and strong meal.
- It is also useful to prevent the formation of stones in the gallbladder. and stimulate bile secretion. In this case, you can combine with boldo leaves and take as an infusion.
- Oregano is an expectorant, antispasmodic and antiseptic , and is indicated in respiratory conditions with congestion, in mild asthmatic attacks, bronchitis, pharyngitis and flu processes.
- Also acts as an analgesic and it is a good natural resource for wash and heal skin wounds and soothe the itching caused by insect bites.
- As natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory , relieves toothache, ear pain and pain caused by bad posture and contractures and reduces joint inflammation.
