Oregano, Origanum vulgare

There are many different varieties of oregano; all are medicinal but vary in the amounts of beneficial compounds. The most potent oregano is said to come from Greece and I find that plants grown in the summer heat seem to be more potent. It is in the Lamiaceae (Mint) Family. Identification: You’ll find oregano growing in most herb gardens and you may already use it in cooking. If you are unfamiliar with it, look for bright-green, opposite oval leaves that are slightly hairy. It is a sprawling perennial plant that, like its relative mint, can take over an area. The plant grows close to the ground, reaching 8 to 32 inches (80 cm) tall. Each leaf is 1/2 to 1 1/2 inches long. The flowers are purple and tiny, growing on erect spikes above the leaves. Edible Use: Oregano is used as a culinary herb to flavor many types of foods, especially in Mediterranean dishes. Medicinal Use: For medicinal use, oregano can be used as an herb in food, used as a tea, as a tincture, or as an essential oil. The essential oil is very concentrated and should be diluted in a carrier oil before use. It is antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal. Oregano is used internally to treat infections and externally to treat skin problems and fungal infections.

Boosts the Immune System and Anti-

viral: Oregano contains a wide range of antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and anti-infectious properties that help the immune system heal the body faster. It contains vitamins A and C, as well as other compounds that are beneficial in boosting the immune system. It helps relieve stresses on the body and stimulates the immune system to produce white blood cells, which defend the body against bacteria, viruses, fungi, and cancerous cells. Yeast and Other Fungal Infections: Oregano oil is a powerful antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal. It is also an anti-inflammatory, which helps in healing.

It inhibits the growth of Candida, the yeast that most often causes yeast infections. Carvacrol and thymol are the main components that treat yeast infections and preventing them from spreading. Use Oregano Tea or Tincture once or twice daily to treat internal yeast infections and for external use, use a tea wash or use well-diluted oregano oil. The diluted essential oil is effective against toenail fungus, athlete’s foot, other fungal infections, and ringworm. Skin Problems: Oregano contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatories that are beneficial to healing, reduce the signs of aging, heal blemishes, and reduce the appearance of scars. They neutralize the free radicals in the skin that cause wrinkles and age spots and they improve skin elasticity. Cancer: In addition to the beneficial anti-inflammatory benefits and immune boosting effects of oregano for fighting cancer, the carvacrol in oregano has antitumor properties that slow the growth and reproduction of cancer cells and promotes cancer cell death.

Heart Healthy: Oregano Tea contains omega-3 fatty acids and helps improve cholesterol levels. It is also beneficial for the heart in other ways, helping prevent atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and stroke.

Stimulates Metabolism and Weight

Loss: Oregano stimulates the metabolism causing the body to burn more calories. It can increase energy levels in some people and can help you lose weight. Prevent Illness or Speed Recovery: When household members are sick, I often use Oregano Tea or Oil of Oregano to prevent the spread of the illness and to speed recovery of those who are ill. Best to use at the first sign of illness.

Bronchial Infections, Asthma, and Coughs:

Add oregano oil to water and create a facial steam for loosening congestion and treating bronchial