Oregano 

Introduction to oregano

Known for its fragrant dried leaves and flowering tops, oregano (Origanum vulgare), also known as origanum or wild marjoram, is an aromatic perennial herb of the mint family (Lamiaceae). Oregano naturally occurs in several areas of Mexico and the United States but comes originally from the hills of the Mediterranean region and western Asia. The herb is a staple of Mediterranean cuisine and is frequently used to season a variety of cuisines.

Oregano meaning

Oregano was connected with joy and gladness by the Greeks and Romans. The Greek words “oros,” which means mountain, and “ganos,” which means joy, are the source of the name.

In many different cuisines all around the world, oregano is regarded as a staple herb. It has a potent flavour and adds warmth and a smidge of delicate sweetness to recipes. All forms of it, including fresh, dried, and oil, are said to have substantial health advantages.

Nutritional Value of Oregano

oregano benefits

An extremely effective “functional food” is oregano. Along with olive oil, seafood, and a variety of leafy greens, herbs, and vegetables, this herb is one of the fundamental components of a healthy Mediterranean diet. It has an excellent nutritional profile; 100 grams of dried oregano leaves has:  
Calories: 265
 Protein: 9 grams
 Fat: 4 grams
 Carbohydrates: 69 grams
 Fiber: 42 grams
Sugar: 0 grams 
Vitamin C, one of the most crucial vitamins for strengthening the immune system’s battle against infection, is abundant in the oil of oregano. Getting enough vitamin C is a great method to reduce your chances of getting the flu, the common cold, and other common ailments.
Oil of oregano also contains: 
 Phosphorous
 Folate
 Potassium
 Calcium 
 Copper

How many calories are in a handful oregano leaves

, tablespoon, cup, or half cup of oregano?
100g of oregano has about 306 calories (kcal).

Benefits of oregano

For ages, people in the Mediterranean region have used oregano in herbal medicine to cure a variety of conditions, such as:

Colds
Skin sores
Aching muscles
Asthma
Cramping
Diarrhea and indigestion
To improve general 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

Antioxidants are found in herbs like oregano. Dietary antioxidants aid in the body’s elimination of free radicals, which are harmful by-products of environmental stressors and natural processes. Oxidative stress may be brought on by a build-up of free radicals. Cell damage caused by oxidative stress has been linked to several disorders, including cancer and diabetes.

Rich in Antioxidant

Antioxidants, which are substances that aid in preventing dangerous free radicals from causing harm to the body are abundant in oregano. Chronic disorders including cancer and heart disease have been related to the accumulation of free radicals. Oregano and oregano oil have been discovered to be rich in antioxidants in several test-tube tests.

May help fight Bacteria

Some of the ingredients in oregano have strong antibacterial effects. The antibacterial effects of oregano, sage, and thyme essential oils were also contrasted in a test-tube investigation. Second, only to thyme in terms of effectiveness against germs was oregano.
Anti-Cancer Properties
Antioxidants are abundant in oregano. These substances may help prevent cancer in addition to repairing free radical damage. Oregano and its constituents may aid in the destruction of cancer cells, according to several test-tube research.
Reduce Inflammation
A sickness or injury triggers inflammation, a typical immunological reaction. Antioxidants found in oregano can help fight off free radicals and lessen inflammation.
Easy to add to the Diet

fresh oregano

Oregano is a multipurpose herb that can be used in a variety of ways. It can also be used to season meat meals, enhance the flavour of homemade sauces, and produce fresh pesto or salad dressing.

Diabetes and oregano

Compounds in oregano may help manage type 2 diabetes.
improve insulin resistance
regulate the expression of genes that affect fat and carbohydrate metabolism
restore damaged liver and kidney tissues
Risk of Oregano
Oregano as a herb, oil, or supplement is likely to be safe for most people.

However, people should:

Before beginning any supplement, consumers should consult their doctor, especially if they are already taking medicine or have a medical problem.
For two weeks before surgery, stay away from oregano products as they may increase the risk of bleeding.
Before using, dilute essential oils, either in water for a steam bath or in a carrier oil like olive oil. Skin irritation could result from using oregano oil in concentrations of more than 1%.
Applying or ingesting essential oils topically can both be harmful. To avoid toxicity, people should make sure they are using each product the right way.
The body’s capacity to absorb copper, iron, and zinc may be impacted by oregano. It might also reduce blood sugar.
People who are allergic to members of the Lamiaceae family of plants, which includes oregano, basil, lavender, mint, and sage, should exercise caution because oregano might cause an allergic reaction in some people.
The Bottom Line
Both oregano oil extract and essential oil are easily available and reasonably priced. Along with other ailments, oregano includes chemicals that may be useful in treating bacterial and fungal infections, inflammation, and discomfort. Overall, it seems to have a number of health advantages and could be helpful as a home remedy for various common health issues.
References

oregano oil benefits

Herbal Remedies’ for Nail Fungus.

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/266259#risks
https://www.britannica.com/plant/oregano
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/9-oregano-oil-benefits-and-uses#The-bottom-line
https://www.almanac.com/plant/oregano
https://www.nutrition-and-you.com/oregano.html