Oregano
Oregano (Origanum vulgare) is a
species of the mint family and is a perennial herb that is native to
Europe, the Mediterranean region and southern and central Asia.
When thinking of oregano it is likely that you will think in terms
of cuisine, however, here are actual medicinal properties to Oregano
as well.
Oregano is a very important culinary herb that is used widely in
Turkish, Greek, Spanish, Dominican and Italian cuisine. For cooking
purposes it is the leaves that are used and while some like to use a
fresh Oregano sprig, the dried Oregano is much more flavorful.
Oregano is often used in tomato sauces, fried vegetables, and
grilled meat. Together with basil, it contributes much to the
distinctive character of many Italian dishes.
In Italian cooking there a distinct relationship between the uses of
Oregano in combination with Basil. The two always seem to create the
perfect tomato sauce. Oregano is also used on many vegetable dishes
as well as a seasoning on various meats. No one could imagine eating
a piece of pizza without a taste of Oregano added to it. Its
variations have probably been eaten in Southern Italy for centuries.
Oregano works with hot and spicy food, which is also popular in
southern Italy.
The Greeks would never consider cooking without Oregano in their
pantry and is an indispensable ingredient in Greek cuisine. The
famous Greek salad boasts its flavor of Oregano. It is usually added
to the lemon-olive oil sauce that accompanies many fish or meat
barbecues and some casseroles.
It is used in the southern Philippines when boiling carabao or cow
meat to eliminate the odor of the meat, and to add a nice, spicy
flavor. In Turkey, oregano is used for flavoring meat, especially
for mutton and lambs meat. In barbecue and kebab restaurants, it can
be usually found on table, together with paprika, salt and pepper.
Medicinal Properties
Oregano is often recommended in alternative medicine as an herb
essential to aid in the recovery of a variety of ailments.
Oregano makes a savory cup of tea that works well for gas,
indigestion, bloating, coughs, urinary problems, bronchial problems,
headaches, and swollen glands and to induce and regulate a woman's
menstrual cycle. Others swear that is can cure fevers, diarrhea,
vomiting, and same jaundice. It is strongly sedative and should not
be taken in large doses, though mild teas have a soothing effect and
aid restful sleep. For a relaxing and soothing bath use Oregano
leaves in the bath water.
Oil extracts of oregano are taken by mouth for the treatment of
colds, influenza, mild fevers, fungal infections, indigestion,
stomach upsets, enteric parasites, and painful menstruation. Some
people make Oregano oil and claim it helps with toothaches and has
been found helpful against ear infections.
To use in capsule form the leaves are dried and then crushed and
placed into the empty capsule shell. The dried leaves can be crushed
with water to make a paste that be used as a cream to apply for
arthritis, itchy skin, sore muscles, and swelling. Used topically,
oregano is one of the best antiseptics because of its high thymol
content.
Oregano is commonly mistaken for Marjoram as the plants look very
similar. Outside of the kitchen Marjoram and Oregano are best
friends and do a lot together. The pair has quite plentiful
properties in the areas of antioxidants and antibacterial. Together
they are not only a great combination for flavoring food but also
for preserving it too. Because both of their oils are perfumery they
are placed in many different soaps and lotions. They are also used
in combination for many potpourris and home décor.
There is no denying that Oregano has been around since ancient times
both in and out of the kitchen. It had many medicinal properties
then and it still does now. It was used in the kitchen and it is
still used there now so those from ancient times started a tradition
that is still followed to this day. Oregano's uniqueness is fully
utilized in many different ways and will be for years to come.
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