Summary
Medicinal plant whose main effects are digestive and expectorant, indicated for digestive disorders and bronchitis.
names
Name: oregano
Binomial name: Origanum vulgare L.
French name: origon , origon commun, marjolaine sauvage, marjolaine bâtarde
English name: oregano
German name: oregano
Italian name: origano
Spanish name: oregano
Note: the oregano species Origanum dictamnus , also from the labiata family, grows wild only in Crete. This last species is a shrub. It is possible to prepare teas or infusions with its leaves, the indication is mainly for gastrointestinal disorders.
Family
Lamiaceae
Constituents
Essential oils (thymol), tannins and flavonoids.
parts used
Aerial parts (flowers, stems and leaves – grass).
Effects
Antiseptic, digestive, expectorant, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory.
Indications
– Digestive problems (dyspepsia)
– Colds , bronchitis , cough (especially the flowers)
– Fatigue (thanks to its anti-inflammatory effect, oregano helps fight fatigue caused by inflammation).
– Rheumatism
Secundary effects
Possible allergy after sun exposure.
contraindications
None known.
Interactions
None known.
Preparations
– Infusion (generally based on oregano flowers)
– Essential oil (for example, against bronchitis, you can put 1-2 drops in a tablespoon of honey and add hot water as a tea, or use it in inhalation)
– poultice
Where does oregano grow?
Oregano is native to Europe and continues to grow in this region. Currently, the plant also grows in many other parts of the world (Asia, Americas, Africa).
This plant thrives in places with high sun exposure and in well-drained soil. The oregano reaches a height of between 20 and 60 cm. It is a perennial plant, that is, it can live for several years.
When to harvest oregano?
The flowers, stems and leaves of oregano are mostly harvested in July, sometimes as late as September in Europe, especially the flowers.
Interesting Observations
– The essential oil of oregano is very interesting to treat colds, bronchitis (see Preparations) or the flu, but also against digestive problems. Seek the advice of an essential oil expert for more information.
– Oregano is often confused with marjoram , as they have more or less the same medicinal and culinary properties.
– Oregano is used, especially the leaves, in some Mediterranean cuisines (Italian pizzas and in Portugal) to season various dishes.
– The term Origanum from the scientific name Origanum vulgare comes from the ancient Greek “oros” meaning mountain and “ganos” meaning joy.
– Oregano belongs to the Herbs of Provence, such as rosemary, thyme, lavender, sage, fennel, etc. These plants grow in dry and hot conditions during the “ belle saison ”, such as in the south of France.
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