Oregano: healing properties, benefits and contraindications

What is oregano and what is it used for?

oregano (Origanum vulgare L..) it’s a plant widely used in the kitchenbut it’s also great to relieve flu or colds among other ailments.

We immediately identified it as a aromatic herb, with an intense flavor and somewhat spicy, with which we perfume pizzas, salads and fish or vegetable stews. But it is also a potent medicinal plant.

Its name derives from the combination of the Greek terms goldswhich means “mountain”, and win“joy”, in clear reference to the showy color that contributes to the mountain slopes when it blooms wild.

It grows in clearings and forest margins in the mountains of the northern and southeastern third of the Iberian Peninsula. Flowering tops are harvested in summer or late spring.

They are very rich in essence with thymol, carvacrol, borneol and caryophyllene, and also contain bitter principles, chlorogenic and rosmarinic acids, flavonoids and tannins.

oregano It comes in fresh or dried plant to prepare in infusion, in tincture, liquid extract, capsules, suppositories and in bottles of pure essential oil.

Properties and benefits of oregano

It’s a digestive tonicvery useful to awaken the appetite and relieve meteorisms, gastrointestinal spasms, dyspepsia and punctual diarrhea. It hinders the formation of gases and avoid flatulenceso it is recommended after a heavy and strong meal. It is also useful to prevent the formation of stones in the gallbladder and stimulate bile secretion. In such a case, it can be combine with boldo leaves and drink as an infusion. Oregano is expectorant, antispasmodic and antisepticand is indicated in respiratory conditions with congestion, in mild asthmatic attacks, bronchitis, pharyngitis and flu processes. It also acts as analgesic and it is a good natural resource for wash and heal skin wounds and soothe the itching caused by insect bites. As natural analgesic and anti-inflammatoryrelieves toothache, ear pain and pain caused by bad postures and contractures and reduces joint inflammation.

Natural remedies with oregano

Infusion of oregano to help expel gases

Experts recommend the carminative infusion that associate oregano with lemon verbena and citronella.

How to prepare it: Pour the boiling water over a tablespoon of the mixture per cup and let it rest for 5 or 6 minutes. It is taken after meals without adding sugar.

Oregano essential oil for cold and flu

just pour a single drop of oregano essential oil for internal use on a sugar cube, dilute it in water and take small sips after each meal. It is an excellent remedy to combat respiratory infections.

Oregano essential oil against pain and inflammation

some are poured essential oil drops over the painful area and a circular massage Two or three times a day.

Mouthwash for toothache

are boiled two tablespoons of oregano and poppy with two cloves 5 minutes and let it rest for another 10. A complete rinse is done several times a day.

What contraindications does oregano have?

Essential oil taken orally should be avoided by pregnant or women who expect to be soon, as well as during the lactationand it is discouraged to under 6-7 years.

It is also contraindicated in patients with gastritis, irritable bowel syndrome, ulcerative colitis, gastroduodenal ulcer and liver diseases.

Advisor: J Mª Teixé, herbalist at “El Manantial de Salud”