Oregano is a plant native to the Mediterranean basin.
Oregano is a aromatic herbs It has a long history in the kitchen. Without going any further, what would pizza be without oregano? But this herb also holds a well-deserved place of honor in traditional medicine.Its scientific name is oregano The area has been cultivated and used since ancient times MediterraneanEspecially in Greece and the eastern Mediterranean region.
Its name is derived from the Greek words “oros” (mountain) and “ganos” (joy), reflecting its ability to grow in mountainous areas and the joy it brings to cooking and health.
Active ingredients of oregano
Oregano contains a range of active ingredients that give it medicinal properties. Some major compounds include:
- carvacrol: This compound gives oregano its unique aroma and flavor. It has strong antibacterial properties and can help fight pathogenic bacteria and fungi in the body.
- Thymol: Thymol, another important component of oregano essential oil, also has antibacterial and antifungal properties. Additionally, it has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that provide health benefits.
- borneol: This compound has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a valuable compound in traditional medicine.
Health Benefits of Oregano
The active ingredients in oregano have a range of beneficial health effects. Some of these impacts include:
- Antibacterial effect: Carvacrol and thymol can help fight bacterial and fungal infections, making them useful in treating problems such as respiratory and digestive tract infections.
- anti-inflammatory properties: Thymol and borneol have anti-inflammatory properties that may relieve inflammatory symptoms such as arthritis.
- Anti-oxidize effect: The antioxidants present in oregano, including thymol, may help reduce oxidative stress in the body, which may help prevent chronic disease.
Diseases Oregano Helps Fight
Due to its medicinal properties, oregano can help relieve various ailments.
- respiratory tract infection: Oregano has antibacterial properties that can help fight respiratory infections such as the common cold and flu.
- urinary tract infection: Oregano may have antibacterial properties and help prevent and treat urinary tract infections.
- candidiasis: Due to its antifungal properties, oregano can be used to treat yeast infections such as candidiasis.
- digestive problems: Oregano calms the gastrointestinal tract and helps relieve minor digestive ailments such as indigestion and bloating.
- arthritis: Oregano’s anti-inflammatory properties are beneficial for people suffering from arthritis as it can help reduce inflammation and pain.
- Cardiovascular diseases: Antioxidants in oregano may prevent cardiovascular disease by reducing oxidation of LDL cholesterol and improving heart health.
- allergy: Some research suggests that oregano may help relieve seasonal allergy symptoms due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
- Menstrual disorders: For some women, oregano has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that can help relieve symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and menstrual cramps.
- acne: Oregano is occasionally used in skin care products due to its antibacterial properties, which may help reduce acne breakouts.
- diabetes: While it is by no means an alternative treatment, some research suggests that oregano may help control blood sugar levels in people with diabetes due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
It is worth noting that oregano Should not be considered a substitute for medical treatment Suitable for serious illnesses. Before using oregano as a supplement to treat any disease or condition, especially in severe cases, it is always recommended to consult a health professional.
How to take oregano
Oregano can be consumed in a variety of ways:
- infusion: To prepare an oregano infusion, add a teaspoon of dried oregano leaves to a cup of hot water and let steep for a few minutes before drinking.
- supplements: Oregano oil supplements are also available in capsule or essential oil form for use in aromatherapy.
- In the kitchen: Oregano is a versatile seasoning used in pasta, pizza, sauces, salads and meats. It can also be mixed with olive oil to make a condiment.
Culinary uses of oregano
Oregano is an essential herb in the kitchen and is used in a variety of dishes around the world:
- pizza: Oregano is an essential condiment on pizza, with a unique flavor and unparalleled aroma.
- sauce: Commonly used in tomato sauce, pasta sauce and dressings to improve their flavor and aroma.
- salad: Can be sprinkled on salads to enhance their flavor and impart a Mediterranean flavor.
- meat dishes: Oregano is used in marinades and marinades for meats such as lamb and chicken, providing a unique and aromatic flavor.