Oregano as most know is used for flavoring, however new studies are showing that oregano has many other assets for its use. The Greeks have used oregano for centuries for various ailments. The 19th century had doctors that frequently recommended oregano for general well-being. Constant studies are being performed to generate more uses for increased health benefits of oregano.
Oregano does not contain cholesterol and contains dietary fibers which aid in the control of levels in blood cholesterol. Oregano contains vitamins A and C, calcium, fiber, iron, manganese, niacin, omega fatty acids, vitamins E and K, riboflavin, thiamine and beta carotene. Oregano contains minerals such as calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, potassium and zinc. The vitamin K, magnesium and calcium in oregano is important for the promotion of bone health and bone density maintenance. Vitamin K is also important for the production of blood clotting proteins. Potassium aids in controlling blood pressure and heart rate and iron aids in the prevention of anemia.
Oregano is very high in antioxidants and is also considered an antiviral which protects the cells against free radicals and aids in the protection from infections. Oregano contains properties that also allow it to be considered an antiparasitic and an insect repellant.
Oregano oil contains the essential compound called carvacol which makes the oregano oil very antimicrobial. Other oils contained in oregano are caryophyllene, limonene, ocimene, and pinene. Researchers from Britain and India have found that the essential oil from oregano is strong enough to kill MRSA, which is a hospital superbug. Another group of Portuguese researchers have found that oregano oil was effective against Listeria and 41 other strains of food pathogens. The carvacol is also being used for continuous studies as showing that oregano contains components that may prevent the spread of cancer and/or slow down cancer cells. With the addition of thymol, oregano becomes a powerful antibacterial as it can increase the protection from bacterial diseases and infections.
Oregano has been used as an antifungal product and can inhibit candida growth. German scientists found that a key ingredient contained in oregano called beta-caryophyllin could be effective in the treatment of osteoporosis and arteriosclerosis.
Other uses for oregano have been for respiratory ailments such as asthma, bronchitis, coughs, and croup. Oregano can also be of help for headaches, menstrual cramps and heart conditions. External application of oregano oil has been used in the treatment of acne, canker sores, rosacea, warts, varicose veins and psoriasis. Heartburn and bloating are other gastrointestinal disorders which oregano has been used for.
Always remember the foods God made have phytochemicals in them that have not been discovered but are very powerful in maintaining health. Live by a simple rule: eat your food in the purest, uncooked state to allow these powerful phytochemicals to improve your health.
How can you eat oregano? You can put the fresh leaves in your salad or you can make a salad dressing with oregano by blending cucumber, lemon and fresh oregano. You can even add it to your green juice. Enjoy health and healing that comes the God designed way naturally.
