When you think of oregano, you probably think of the flavorful herb that’s used to prepare several Italian dishes. But, oregano offers so much more than just its taste profile. It possesses numerous health benefits that have led people to start using it as a medicinal remedy. In this article, we’ll discuss the healing benefits of oregano and how you can incorporate it into your daily routine.
Rich in Antioxidants
Oregano is rich in powerful antioxidants such as thymol, carvacrol, and rosmarinic acid. Antioxidants are important compounds because they help protect your body from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that lead to oxidative stress, a condition linked to several chronic diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and cognitive disorders.
So, the more antioxidants you consume, the better your body’s ability to fight off free radicals and reduce oxidative stress. Oregano even contains much higher antioxidant activity than other fruits and vegetables. In fact, oregano has 42 times more antioxidant activity than an apple and 12 times more than oranges!
Anti-Inflammatory Benefits of Oregano
Chronic inflammation is a common culprit for many diseases, including arthritis, heart disease, and diabetes. Oregano contains compounds that have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory effects. These compounds can help reduce inflammation in the body and promote better health.
Antibacterial and Antimicrobial Effects
Antibiotics are prescribed to people who are in the midst of an infection. They help to control the growth or spread of bacteria. However, several bacterial strains are resistant to or become resistant to traditional antibiotics. Fascinatingly, studies have found that oregano oil (a concentrated source that’s extracted from the leaves) may be able to defeat some antibiotic-resistant pathogens, such as Staphylococcus aureus.
Aside from preventing the growth of bacteria, oregano oil may also possess antimicrobial effects that can reduce the spread of other pathogens, such as fungi, parasites, and some viruses.
Respiratory Health
Oregano has been traditionally used to treat respiratory ailments such as coughs, colds, and bronchitis. It’s anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties can help soothe sore throats, reduce coughing, and alleviate congestion. Drinking oregano tea or inhaling oregano-infused steam can provide relief from these frustrating respiratory symptoms.
Digestive Health
Oregano, particularly oregano oil, has even been shown to help promote digestive health. It has been used for centuries to relieve gastrointestinal symptoms like stomach cramps, bloating, and gas. Additionally, its antimicrobial properties, which we’ve discussed earlier, can help balance the gut microbiome and reduce the risk of infections.
How to Get the Benefits of Oregano into Your Routine
- Cooking: The simplest way is to add fresh or dried oregano to a variety of dishes. Try adding it to pasta sauces, meat dishes, marinades, and salads.
- Oregano oil: Oregano oil can be used topically or taken orally, typically in the form of a tincture. Always consult with a healthcare provider before use and carefully read package instructions, as some may be highly potent and require dilution. It’s important not to confuse oregano oil with oregano essential oil, which is not meant to be consumed. Oregano essential oil is typically used for its aromatic properties or applied topically when properly diluted.
- Oregano Tea: You can also enjoy the healing benefits of oregano by brewing a cup of it. Just brew a handful of fresh oregano leaves in hot water, strain, and enjoy.
Benefits of Oregano
Oregano is a powerful herb with numerous health benefits. Its rich antioxidant content helps protect the body from several chronic diseases caused by oxidative stress and inflammation. Oregano oil also has antibacterial effects, which have been shown to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria and other harmful pathogens. In additon to, it has been used for centuries to provide relief from respiratory and digestive symptoms.
To incorporate oregano into your routine, use fresh or dried oregano in cooking, try oregano oil (with caution and professional guidance), or brew a cup of oregano tea.
