How to Understand the Health Benefits of Oregano

Oregano is a superstar among spices. Here's how to get the incredible benefits of oregano.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. oregano.
   
   If you eat Greek or Italian cuisine, chances are you’re a fan of the well-known herb oregano. This member of the mint family is used to flavor and season a variety of Mediterranean dishes ranging from spaghetti sauce to grilled meat. It’s also frequently used to top fresh salads to give them an additional flavor dimension. Oregano is not only tasty, but it also has health properties that make it a great addition to any recipe. What are the benefits of oregano for health?
   It has Antioxidant Activity
   
   Although many vegetables, fruits, and spices have some antioxidant activity, oregano is an antioxidant superstar. It has more antioxidant power than many of the other top sources, including blueberries. This seems to be related to its high concentration of flavonoids and phenolic acids such as rosmarinic acid and thymol. If you’re looking for a spice with the ability to protect your cells from damage, oregano is a good choice.

2. It Has Anti-Bacterial Properties
   
   Oregano has been shown in studies to stop the growth of certain food-borne bacteria and parasites. Himalayan oregano has even shown activity against one of the most serious bacterial infections of all, MRSA. A British study showed that oregano had activity against at least twenty-five different bacteria. Other studies have shown that it also has anti-viral properties. When cold weather viruses and flu are going around, a little oregano sprinkled on your salad may offer some extra protection.

3. It Has Anti-Inflammatory Properties
   
   An ingredient found in oregano known as beta-caryophyllin has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. It’s thought that this powerful ingredient may help to reduce the pain and inflammation associated with arthritis and other diseases where inflammation is a prominent feature, although human medical trials haven’t been conducted to confirm this as of yet.

4. It’s Nutritious
   
   Oregano is a good source of vitamin K which has recently been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease. In terms of minerals, it’s high in iron and manganese, and is a decent source of calcium. It contains vitamins A and C, and even supplies five percent of the suggested daily intake of omega-3 fatty acids.

5. No wonder the oregano rich Mediterranean diet is called one of the healthiest diets in the world! Keep in mind that oregano is one of the few herbs that’s more flavorful in its dried form.

[annvans]

on 4/28/2009 Oregano is good, great article on health benefits of oregano.

[e-Rambler]

on 3/30/2009 Oregano is a real superstar. Thank you for letting us know the beneficial affects of oregano on our body.