Origin: Oregano was first used and domesticated by the Greeks. The Greeks believed that the oregano was made by the Goddess Aphrodite. She wanted it to be a symbol of joy growing in her garden. The word “oregano” is derived from the Greek words oros, for “mountain,” and ganos, for “joy” meaning “ joy of the mountains”.
After Greeks, the oregano reached Rome. The Roman enjoyed the taste of the oregano and used it for culinary purposes. Their love for oregano grew so much that they started cultivating it. The herb later spread to Europe and Northern Africa.
In the middle age, oregano was used for medicinal purposes. They would chew the oregano leaves as a cure for many diseases such as rheumatism, toothache, indigestion, and coughing fits.
Later, oregano made its way to China and the Chinese people used it for medicinal purposes. It was mainly used to treat fever, indigestion, vomiting and other stomach ailments.
Oregano also had great significance during the Elizabeth era. It was considered a symbol of good luck and good health. People used to gift oregano for happiness, tranquility, luck, health and as a protective layer. It was used to ward off evil dreams. Oregano was introduced to the US after the second world war.
Scientifically: Oregano belongs to Origanum, a genus of the mint family (Lamiaceae). It usually comes from warm climates in western and southwestern Eurasia and the Mediterranean region. It is a perennial plant and looks like a herb. It is green in color with feather-like leaves, with round-shaped leaves. It takes 3-4 years to grow and prefers northern climates where the temperature is colder. It is perennial and grows annually. Oregano grows easily and needs to be trimmed on occasion. The plant can grow up to 30 inches tall and sprouts purple flowers. It is one of the most common herbs to grow at home because of its low maintenance and its capability to keep vegetable gardens pest-free.
Uses: Oregano is most popularly used for culinary purposes. It is used in many cuisines and is a major part of Italian and European cuisines.
Oregano includes treating respiratory tract disorders, gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, menstrual cramps, and urinary tract disorders. Applied topically, it may help treat a number of skin conditions, such as acne and dandruff.
Oregano helps in treating eczema and psoriasis. Rich in Antioxidants. It also Helps Fighting Bacteria. Oregano contains certain compounds that have potent antibacterial properties and treats acne. Oregano is high in antioxidants and helps fight cancer. It also Helps Reduce Viral Infection.
Oregano oil used to treat fungal infections, including foot and nail infections. It is also great to keep beginning cold symptoms from developing into a full-blown illness. The oil can be ingested, diffused or applied topically, as long as it is diluted.
Below are some DIYs with oregano:
- Oregano oil helps in reducing acne.
- Oregano oil mixed with olive oil helps in removing dandruff when applied on the scalp.
- Take Oregano herbs and mix it with fresh aloe vera gel. Apply this mixture on the face for 15 minutes and then rinse it later. This remedy helps in moisturizing the skin.
- Apply the oregano oil on the bruise. It helps in healing the bruise.
- Boil the oregano herbs in some water. Boil until the liter reduces to half. Let this chill. Use this water as a facial toner and hair rinse. This cleanses the hair and skin.