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 An aromatic herb with an intense and slightly spicy flavor , used to flavor pizzas, salads, and fish or vegetable stews. But it is also a powerful medicinal plant .
Oregano is available as a fresh or dried plant for preparation 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
- Antimicrobials
- Antitumor drugs
- Antiseptics
- Antispasmodics
- Antifungals
- Analgesics
- Digestive
- Healing
- Diuretics
- Expectorants
Benefits of oregano
Oregano is a very versatile medicinal plant that offers multiple health benefits. In fact, according to studies by the World Health Organization (WHO), it is estimated that nearly 80% of the world's population uses oregano plant extracts or active compounds 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 respiratory congestion in cases of bronchitis, laryngitis, and pulmonary emphysema.
- Powerful antioxidant: Fresh oregano has a high antioxidant activity. In fact, it's much higher than most fruits and vegetables, which helps protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are thought to 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 of 80 people with mildly elevated cholesterol, 48 received dietary and healthy lifestyle advice to help lower their cholesterol. Thirty-two participants also received 25 ml of oregano oil extract after each meal. After 3 months, those receiving oregano oil had lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and higher HDL (good) cholesterol, compared to those who did not receive the oil.
- It is a digestive tonic, very useful for stimulating the appetite and relieving flatulence, gastrointestinal spasms, dyspepsia and occasional diarrhea.
- It prevents the formation of gas and flatulence , so it is recommended after a heavy meal.
- It is also useful to prevent the formation of gallstones. and stimulate bile secretion. In this case, it can be combine with boldo leaves and take as an infusion.
- Oregano is an expectorant, antispasmodic and antiseptic , and is indicated for respiratory conditions with congestion, mild asthma attacks, bronchitis, pharyngitis and flu.
- It 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 , it relieves toothache, earache, and pain caused by poor posture and contractures, and reduces joint inflammation.
