In India, this plant is called Himalayan marjoram, while in Poland it is known as common marjoram. Oregano (Latin: *Origanum vulgare L.*) belongs to the *Origanum* genus and the *Lamiaceae* family. It is an evergreen, perennial plant with an intense aroma, originating from the Mediterranean region. Today, it grows naturally in North Africa, Asia, and Europe. In ancient times, oregano was considered a symbol of happiness, given to lift spirits, and was the favorite herb of the Greek goddess Aphrodite. In ancient Egypt, it was used both as a preservative and an antidote. The Greeks used it internally and externally—externally for skin irritations and infections, and internally to treat edema and seizures. Oregano is also well-known in Chinese medicine. It has many varieties—Greek or Italian oregano has a strong aroma and sharp taste, used to season dishes, while ornamental varieties are not edible.
What Does Oregano Contain, and How Does It Work?
The main components of oregano essential oil extracted from its leaves are carvacrol, p-cymene, c-terpinene, limonene, terpinene, ocimene, caryophyllene, β-bisabolene, linalool, and 4-terpineol. These active ingredients give oregano oil valuable properties: antibacterial, antifungal, antiparasitic, antimicrobial, and antioxidant effects. Oregano oil is used in antifungal treatments because it limits the growth of pathogens, including *Candida albicans* and the production of aflatoxins (harmful substances produced by molds from the *Aspergillus* family). Oregano essential oil and extract also inhibit the growth of bacteria such as *S. aureus* (Staphylococcus aureus) and *Pseudomonas aeruginosa* (Pseudomonas).
The bioactive components of oregano leaf extract include rosmarinic acid, linalool, thymol, carvacrol, tannins, flavonoids, triterpenes, phenol-carvacrol, and thymol. Oregano also contains minerals such as iron, copper, sulfur, chlorine, iodine, selenium, calcium, and magnesium, as well as vitamins like niacin (vitamin B3) and thiamine (vitamin B1).
Oregano in the Kitchen, Pharmacy, and Cosmetic Store
Oregano is widely used in the cuisine of many countries, especially Mediterranean ones. It adds a slightly bitter flavor to dishes. It is used to season poultry, fish, sauces, eggs, and many other dishes. In Mediterranean cuisine, oregano is found in pizza, lasagna, and spaghetti, while in Turkish cuisine, it is used to prepare lamb and other meat dishes. Oregano is also added to soups, herb bread, and tomato-based dishes. The spice is also utilized in the food industry for the production of snacks, processed meats, and some dairy products. Due to its strong antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, oregano serves as an excellent natural food preservative.
Oregano is also a medicinal plant used in herbal medicine, as an ingredient in pain-relieving ointments, mouth rinses, and in the treatment of fungal infections and bacterial infections. It is known to improve digestive health. An infusion of oregano herb is recommended for gastritis and issues with bile secretion or liver function. Other uses include treating indigestion, bloating, and intestinal problems. Oregano is also found in some perfumes, cosmetics, soaps, and more, where it serves as a fragrance.
