Benefits of oregano

Oregano is a herb from the mint, or Lamiaceae family. People have used it for thousands of years to add flavor to dishes and to treat health conditions. It features in the Mediterranean diet.

The Greeks and Romans associated oregano with joy and happiness. The name comes from the Greek words “oros,” meaning mountain, and “ganos,” meaning joy.

There are different types of oregano. The most common type is Oregano vulgare, also known as Spanish thyme and wild marjoram.

People use oregano in the diet as supplements and as an aromatic oil.

The antioxidants thymol, carvacrol, limonene, terpinene, ocimene, and caryophyllene give the herb its flavor and scent. They also contribute to the health benefits of oregano oil. Oregano provides other antioxidants when people consume it in the diet.

[bad iframe src]

Benefits

Share on PinterestOregano may help fight bacteria, relieve inflammation, and regulate blood sugar.

People around the Mediterranean region have used oregano for centuries in herbal medicine to treat many ailments, including:

• skins sores

• aching muscles

• asthma

• cramping

• diarrhea

• indigestion

• colds

• to boost overall health

Scientists need to do more research to confirm the benefits of using oregano, but there is some evidence that it could help:

• fight bacteria

• relieve inflammation

• regulate blood sugar and lipids

• fight cancer

Oregano and other herbs provide antioxidants. Dietary antioxidants help the body eliminate free radicals, which are toxic substances that result from natural processes and environmental stresses. A buildup of free radicals can trigger oxidative stress. Oxidative stress can lead to cell damage that may result in various diseases, including cancer and diabetes.