Oregano is considered a staple herb in many cuisines around the world. It has a strong fragrance and brings a special flavor to the dishes, along with a slightly sweet taste. It can be found in fresh, dry or in the form of oil, and it contains many health benefits. It is commonly used in small quantities, oregano contains some important nutrients. Only a teaspoon of dry oregano contains 8% of the daily vitamin K requirement.
It is rich in Antioxidants
Oregano is rich in antioxidants, compounds that help combat problems caused by harmful elements of the body such as cancer or heart disease. Several studies on its testing have found that oregano and oregano oil are rich in numerous antioxidants.
Essential oil of oregano is particularly rich in cymophenol and tymol, two antioxidants that help prevent cell damage caused by free radicals. In combination with other antioxidant-rich foods such as fruits and vegetables, oregano is very rich in antioxidants that can help you improve your health.
Can help Fight Bacteria
Oregano contains certain compounds that have strong antibacterial properties. A laboratory study showed that essential oil of oregano prevented the growth of Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, two strains of bacteria that can cause infections. Another laboratory study found that oregano was effective against 23 species of bacteria. Moreover, one study compared the antimicrobial activity of essential oils of oregano, sage, and thyme. Oregano was one of the most effective essential oils fight against bacteria, the second in thyme.
Contain Anti-cancer Properties
Oregano is rich in antioxidants. These compounds not only can neutralize the damage caused by free radicals, but can also help prevent cancer. Some studies have shown that oregano and its components can help destroy cancer cells. Another study showed that cymophenol, one of the oregano components, also helped stop the growth and spread of colon cancer cells.
Help to Reduce Viral Infection
Fight against bacteria, some studies have found that oregano and its components can also protect against viruses. In particular, cymophenol and thymol are two oregano compounds that have been associated with antiviral properties.
Inflammation may Decrease
Inflammation is a normal immune response that occurs as a result of a disease or injury to the body. However, it is believed that chronic inflammation linked to the development of heart disease, diabetes and autoimmune disorders. Oregano, being rich in antioxidants, can help neutralize free radicals and reduce inflammation. It also contains cymophenol, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. In an animal study, cymophenol reduced the swelling of the mice by up to 57%. Another animal study has shown that a mixture of essential oils of thyme and thyme reduced the number of inflammatory markers in mice with colitis or an inflamed colon.
Easy to Add to your Diet
You can also use it to make fresh pesto or dressing for salads, meat dishes or home-made sauces.