11 August 2015
About OreganoLatin Name : Origanum vulgare
Common Names : oregano, wild marjoram Oregano is a herbaceous, perennial plant that grows to about 2 feet in height. It grows between a soil pH range of 6 to 9. The Oregano PlantThe herb bears pink to purple flowers which are produced in erect spikes. The leaves are olive green in color, shaped shaped and have fine hairs on their surface.
The leaves have a taste that ranges from spicy to astringent to sweet. Oregano is a close relative of sweet marjoram and this is why most of the time it is mistaken for sweet marjoram. Oregano does not survive the colder climates and hence is grown as an annual in these places. It however does well in hot and dry climates and under the full sun. There are 2 notable subspecies of origanum vulgare; subspecies, gracile and sub species hirtum, which are notable for their pungent, spicy, taste and aroma. Oregano grown in the hotter climates has more flavor than that grown in the cooler climates. Uses Of OreganoOregano is mainly used for culinary purposes. However it has been traditionally also been used for medicinal purposes.
The leaves are used fresh or dried. Dried leaves have more flavor than the fresh ones.Oregano is sweet, warm and spicy to taste and tends to numb the tongue temporarily. Oregano is widely used in many cuisines around the world particularly the Mediterranean and Mexican cuisines. It is used for flavoring both meat and vegetarian dishes and is much used in Italian and American cuisines. Oregano is often called the pizza herb. Nutritional Benefits Of Oregano
Some Amazing Health Benefits Of OreganoOregano has antioxidant, antiseptic, antimicrobial (antibacterial, antifungal,antiviral), antispasmodic, carminative, expectorant, stimulant, tonic, cholagogic (increasing bile secretion), diaphoretic (sweat producing) properties.
Read Dr Cass Ingram's books on Oregano:
Oegano Tea & Its Health BenefitsThough oregano is a herb and a culinary spice it can be used to make tea like all herbs and provides many benefits but a few that in a nutshell can be summarised as:
Oregano tea can be made at home by steeping 1 to 2 tsp of dried or fresh oregano leaves in hot water for about 10 minutes. This tea can be consumed 2 to 3 times a day. Health Benefits Of Oregano Essential OilOregano essential oil too has amazing health benefits a few of which are:
Read more in my article "The Health Benefits Of Oregano Oil". References
DisclaimerThe information provided in this hub is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your physician, or health care provider before taking any home remedies, supplements or starting a new health regime.
Oregano : What Is It Good For? By Dr Cass IngramWhat Do You Use Oregano Oil For? |
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