What are the Health Benefits of Oregano (Origanum Vulgare)?
Introduction
Oregano is a popular herb that people think it is used as a spice to improve the flavor of food but in reality, it has a various health benefits that people don't realize at all. This herb has been used for centuries for treating a variety of ailments from convulsions to heart failure.
This herb is native to Mediterranean area and southwest Eurasia.
Ayurvedic doctors prescribe oregano as a general health and well-being tonic and to promote menstruation. The word oregano has been originated from the two Greek words oros and ganos. It is also known as wild marjoram and marjoram.
Its Latin name is Origanum vulgare and belongs to the family Lamiaceae.
Morphology
The flowers of oregano are purple colored and spade-shaped olive green leaves. It is a perennial herb growing from 20 to 80 cm tall with opposite leaves of 1 to 4 cm in length and grown as an annual in colder climates and it does not survive in the winter.
Nutrients Present in Oregano
One teaspoon of oregano contains some important nutrients, they are :-
- Energy - 5 calories
- Fibers - 8 grams
- Calcium - 29 mg
- Iron - 66 mg
- Magnesium - 5 g
- Manganese - 09 mg
- Potassium - 23 mg
- Vitamin E - 33 mg
- Vitamin K - 2 mcg
Vitamins present in it are useful in bone growth and maintain the bone density. Calcium is useful for the bone and teeth formation.
Oregano is the richest source of dietary antioxidants which protects the cells against the effects of free radicals. It also improves the ability of the body to fight against infections.
Also beneficial in :-
- Cold Sores
- Muscle Pain
- Acne and Dandruff
- Bronchitis
- Toothache
- Abdominal Bloating
- Headache
- Heart Conditions
- Allergies
- Intestinal Parasites
- Earache
- Sore Throat
- Fatigue
- Repelling Insects
- Menstrual Cramps
Important Health Benefits of Oregano
1. Antibacterial Properties
Oregano contains an essential compound called carvacrol which has an antimicrobial property. A study shows that oregano oil blocks the growth of Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The organic compounds present in it defend the body against the bacteria that can affect the gut, skin and other parts of the body. Being a slight stimulating agent, it increases the production of white blood cells and increases the body’s metabolism which results in the fastest recovery of the common infections or illness.
2. Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Inflammation is defined as the normal immune response in case if any injury. Chronic inflammation plays a role in developing autoimmune disorders. Some researchers have identified that it contains an active compound called beta-caryophyllin which is helpful in treating disorders such as osteoporosis and arteriosclerosis. Its essential oil shows positive results in relieving inflammation.
3. Boosts Immunity
The two important components of oregano are thymol and rosmarinic acids, both of these components are powerful antioxidants that reduce the oxidative stress in the body. These free radicals are destructive by-products that cause cancer and various chronic diseases. Adding oregano to the diet improves the immune health and keeps the body safe from infections.
4. Improves Heart Health
Oregano is the natural form of omega-3 fatty acids that improves heart health. These acids balance the cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation in the cardiovascular system that prevents heart attacks, heart strokes, and atherosclerosis. It is also an important source of potassium which is necessary for the body cells and fluids.
5. Body Detoxification
Oregano contains a high content of calcium, manganese, iron, vitamin K and fibers with a wide range of other organic compounds that makes it an ideal herb for detoxifying the body. This herb improves the liver functions and speeds up the process of elimination of toxins.
6. Bone Health
As the age increases, the bones begin to weaken and break down as we need enough vitamins and minerals in the early years is most important. Iron, manganese, and calcium are the most important minerals for maintaining the bone health and it has a significant amount of all these minerals which makes it great for those people who want to protect themselves against osteoporosis in later stages of life.
7. Anti-Cancerous Properties
The antioxidants present in it do not only combat the infections but also useful in the major diseases such as cancer. Many studies have shown that it prevents the growth of cancer cells and helps to kill them off.
8. Treats Menstrual Cramps and other Disorders
Not so many females know that oregano is a great component for relieving menstrual cramps. It acts as an effective pain reliever and many cases have shown that it reduces the intensity of pain and discomfort during menstruation. Moreover, this herb also regulates the normal menstrual cycle and provides relief from the negative effects of menopause.
