Oregano, also known as maternik or oregano, has long gained popularity due to its healing properties and bright aroma. This plant is widely used in cooking, medicine and cosmetology. The rich chemical composition of oregano provides it with antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and soothing properties. In this article, we will analyze in detail the features of oregano, its beneficial properties, uses and limitations.
What is oregano?
Oregano is an aromatic herbaceous plant known for its medicinal and culinary properties. People often call it motherland or oregano, and its history of use dates back centuries. Oregano is used not only as a spice, but also in folk medicine, due to the high content of essential oils, vitamins and trace elements. Its spicy aroma and many beneficial properties have made the plant popular in a variety of areas – from cooking to skin care and the treatment of diseases.
Biological description
Oregano (Origanum vulgare) is a herbaceous perennial plant from the Lamiaceae family. It reaches a height of 30 to 80 cm, depending on growing conditions. The stems are erect, branched, with a reddish tint. Oregano leaves are ovoid or oval-shaped, 2-4 cm long, with small teeth at the edges. Their surface is covered with thin glands that secrete essential oils. The inflorescences are compound, corymbose, consisting of small pink, lilac or purple flowers. Flowering usually occurs from June to August.
The root system of oregano is fibrous, which allows it to easily take root in various types of soils. The plant prefers sunny places, forest edges and meadows, and is also found on rocky slopes. Due to its aroma, oregano attracts bees and other pollinators, which makes it a valuable honey plant.
What is the difference between oregano and thyme, oregano, motherland?
Oregano is often confused with other aromatic herbs, especially thyme, oregano, and motherwort. To avoid confusion, let’s consider their differences:
| Parameter | Oregano | Thyme | Oregano | Motherboard |
| Botanical name | Origanum vulgare | Thymus vulgaris | Origanum vulgare | Origanum vulgare |
| Plant shape | Erect, up to 80 cm high | Stunted, creeping on the ground | Erect, like oregano | Erect, like oregano |
| Leaves | Oval, with a serrated edge | Narrow, shallow | Oval, like oregano | Oval, like oregano |
| Flowers | Small, pink or purple | Light pink, small | Purple like oregano | Purple like oregano |
| Aroma | Spicy, soft | Sharp, saturated | Spicy, pronounced | Spicy, soft |
| Use | Medicinal infusions, teas, cosmetology | Spice, expectorant | Spice in Mediterranean cuisine | Folk medicine, medicinal infusions |
| Common name | Motherboard | Thyme | Oregano | Oregano |
Oregano, oregano and mother are the same plant with different names depending on the application. Thyme is a separate species with excellent botanical and aromatic characteristics.
Useful properties of oregano
Oregano is known as a natural remedy that has many beneficial properties due to its rich composition. It contains essential oils, flavonoids, tannins and vitamins that have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, soothing and restorative effects. The use of oregano helps maintain the health of the respiratory, digestive and nervous systems, as well as strengthens the immune system and improves overall well-being.
Help fight bacteria and infections
Oregano herb has powerful antimicrobial and antiviral properties thanks to active substances such as thymol and carvacrol. These components effectively inhibit the growth of pathogenic microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi and some viruses.
- Antibacterial action: Oregano can be used to fight bacteria that cause diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, such as E. coli or staphylococcus.
- Antifungal effect: oregano essential oil successfully copes with fungal infections, including Candida.
- Cold Support: Tea or inhalations with oregano help eliminate inflammation in the throat by killing pathogens.
Regular use of oregano in the form of an infusion or adding it to food helps to strengthen the immune system and reduce the risk of infectious diseases.
Benefits for women’s health and gynecology
Oregano occupies a special place in folk medicine due to its benefits for women’s health. Its healing properties are used to normalize the reproductive system:
- Regulation of the menstrual cycle: oregano infusions help restore the regularity of the cycle in case of its disorders associated with stress or hormonal imbalance.
- Relieving pain and cramps: oregano reduces menstrual cramps by relieving cramps and relaxing smooth muscle.
- Relief of PMS and menopause symptoms: The herb has a calming effect, reducing nervous tension, irritability and other manifestations of hormonal changes.
- Recovery after childbirth: In the past, oregano was used to improve lactation and speed up the recovery of a woman’s body after childbirth (in modern recommendations, this advice should be approached with caution).
It is important to remember that oregano is contraindicated during pregnancy due to its ability to stimulate uterine contraction.
Improving the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract
Oregano has a beneficial effect on the gastrointestinal tract, helping to improve its work and cope with various digestive problems. It stimulates the production of gastric juice and digestive enzymes, which contributes to better digestion of food and absorption of nutrients. This is especially useful for people with a reduced appetite or difficulty digesting.
The antispasmodic properties of oregano allow you to relieve abdominal discomfort associated with colic or bloating. Drinking oregano infusion or tea helps eliminate excess gas, alleviating the general condition. In addition, the plant contributes to the normalization of intestinal motility, which makes it useful for both constipation and a tendency to diarrhea.
Due to the antimicrobial properties of oregano, its use supports a healthy intestinal microflora. It suppresses the activity of pathogenic bacteria, which is especially important in dysbacteriosis or other disorders of the bacterial balance. However, in chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, you should consult a doctor before using oregano.
Other health benefits
Oregano has a complex healing effect on the body. Its calming effect is widely known: oregano teas help to relax, cope with stress and restore emotional balance. Regular consumption of drinks with this herb improves sleep and helps fight chronic fatigue.
The rich composition of the plant makes it effective for strengthening the immune system. The antioxidants contained in oregano protect cells from free radical damage, thereby reducing the risk of developing inflammatory processes and slowing down the aging process. This makes oregano not only a therapeutic, but also a preventive measure for maintaining health.
In addition, oregano is useful for the respiratory system. It facilitates the removal of phlegm, which makes it useful for coughs and diseases of the upper respiratory tract. Due to its anti-inflammatory effect, the plant is also used to relieve pain and inflammation in the joints, helping with diseases such as arthritis or rheumatism.
How is oregano used?
Use for Tea and Infusions
Tea and infusions of oregano are one of the most popular ways to use this plant. They are prepared from dried leaves and flowers, which contain essential oils and active substances that provide a therapeutic effect. Oregano-based drinks have a pleasant aroma and mild taste, which makes them not only healthy, but also pleasant to use.
Oregano tea is often used to relax, relieve stress and improve sleep. It helps to cope with nervous tension, eliminates irritability and helps to restore emotional balance. Oregano infusions are useful for colds, as they have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to cope with symptoms faster and strengthen the immune system.
To make tea, usually take one or two teaspoons of dried herb per glass of boiling water, infuse for 10-15 minutes and drink warm. Oregano infusion can be used not only for drinking, but also as a basis for compresses or cosmetic procedures.
Application for rinsing and compresses
Oregano is actively used in the form of infusions for gargling and mouth in inflammatory processes. The antiseptic properties of the plant help destroy bacteria, reduce pain and eliminate redness of the mucous membranes. Gargling is especially effective for sore throat, pharyngitis and stomatitis. Warm infusion of oregano has a soothing and healing effect, contributing to tissue recovery.
Oregano-based compresses are used for external treatment of wounds, inflammation and bruises. The tissue soaked in the infusion is applied to the affected area, which helps to reduce swelling, reduce pain and speed healing. Such compresses are useful for skin rashes, burns and even insect bites.
The use of oregano in these forms makes it a universal remedy for the treatment of both internal and external inflammations, as well as for improving the condition of the skin.
Oregano in cosmetology
Facial and hair care
Oregano has many properties that make it a valuable component in skin and hair care. Thanks to its high content of antioxidants and essential oils, it helps to cleanse, soothe and revitalize the skin, as well as strengthen the hair and improve its structure.
For facial skin care, oregano is used in the form of infusions or its essential oil is added to masks and tonics. Oregano infusion effectively cleanses pores, fights inflammation and redness, which is especially useful for acne-prone skin. It also has a slight tonic effect, improving the complexion and increasing skin elasticity. Regular rubbing of the skin with oregano infusion helps to eliminate oily sheen and prevents the formation of acne.
For hair, oregano is used as a rinse after shampooing. The infusion strengthens the hair roots, prevents their loss and stimulates the growth of new hair. It also helps to get rid of dandruff and reduces itching of the scalp. Oregano essential oil can be added to shampoos or used as part of masks to enhance shine and give hair a healthy look.
Oregano in folk medicine
Recipes for infusions and decoctions
Infusions and decoctions of oregano are natural remedies that effectively help with colds and other diseases. Oregano has expectorant, anti-inflammatory and choleretic properties, which makes it indispensable in the treatment of inflammatory diseases of the respiratory tract, as well as pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract. It is used to relieve the symptoms of laryngitis, bronchitis, tracheitis, as well as cholecystitis, biliary dyskinesia and enterocolitis, accompanied by flatulence and constipation.
To prepare an infusion of dried oregano herb, you need to take 2 tablespoons of plant material, place them in an enamel bowl and pour 200 ml of boiling water. The mixture is infused in a water bath for 15 minutes, then cooled at room temperature for about 45 minutes. After straining, the volume is brought to 200 ml with boiled water. Adults are recommended to drink the infusion warm 1/3 cup 3 times a day 15-20 minutes before meals.
A decoction of oregano is also effective for colds, as it helps to thin and remove phlegm, soothes cough and reduces inflammation. For its preparation, the same proportions are used as for the infusion, but the mixture is additionally boiled over low heat for 5-7 minutes.
For children from 1 year old, the dosage is reduced depending on age: from 1 teaspoon for the youngest to 1/3 cup for teenagers. It is recommended that children consult a doctor before use.
In addition, oregano can be packed in filter bags, which simplifies the cooking process. Two filter bags are poured with 100 ml of boiling water, infused for 15 minutes, and the infusion is ready for use. This method is convenient for busy people or traveling.
Ready-made infusions and decoctions are recommended to be stored in the refrigerator for no more than two days, after which their use becomes undesirable. Oregano in this form is suitable for both treatment and prevention, providing a mild effect on the body.
Use for colds and coughs
Oregano is a time-tested remedy for relieving cold symptoms and treating coughs. Due to its antiseptic and expectorant properties, oregano helps to clear the respiratory tract, reduces inflammation and promotes a faster recovery.
For coughing, a warm infusion of oregano is especially useful. Its use helps to thin phlegm and facilitate its excretion. This makes the drink indispensable for bronchitis or tracheitis. For inhalation, use an infusion or decoction of oregano, adding it to hot water. The steam, enriched with essential oils of the plant, relieves nasal congestion, facilitates breathing and soothes an irritated throat.
Oregano can also be used for gargling with sore throat or pharyngitis. Warm infusion helps to reduce pain, relieve swelling and accelerate the healing of inflamed tissues. However, it is important to remember that oregano treatment should complement the basic medical recommendations, not replace them.
Contraindications of oregano
Who is not recommended to use oregano
Despite its many beneficial properties, oregano is not suitable for everyone. There are a number of contraindications that must be taken into account before using it. First of all, this plant is strictly forbidden to use during pregnancy. The active substances of oregano can stimulate uterine contractions, which poses a risk of miscarriage or premature birth.
People with increased acidity of gastric juice or other diseases of the gastrointestinal tract accompanied by hypersecretion should also be cautious about the use of oregano. Its use can increase unpleasant symptoms, such as heartburn or stomach pain.
Oregano can cause allergic reactions in people with individual sensitivity to its components. If you have previously been allergic to other medicinal plants, it is better to consult a doctor before using oregano.
It is not recommended to give oregano to children under one year of age. The body of babies may not be able to cope with the effects of the active substances contained in the plant.
Patients with chronic cardiovascular diseases should also be careful, as the use of oregano can lead to a decrease in blood pressure.
In case of doubts or the presence of chronic diseases, it is necessary to seek medical advice to avoid side effects or worsening of the condition.
Features of use during pregnancy
The use of oregano during pregnancy is strictly not recommended. This is because the plant contains active components that can cause uterine contractions. This exposure significantly increases the risk of miscarriage or premature birth, especially in early pregnancy.
Even the external use of infusions or essential oil of oregano requires caution. Contact with the skin or inhalation of vapors can provoke an allergic reaction or negatively affect the condition of the expectant mother due to the high sensitivity of the body during this period.
Pregnant women are advised to completely avoid any products based on oregano, including teas, decoctions, infusions and cosmetic products with the addition of its extracts. If there is a need to use herbal preparations for treatment, it is better to choose safe analogues, after consulting a doctor.
After childbirth, during breastfeeding, oregano should also be used with caution, as its active substances can penetrate into breast milk and affect the baby. Only after the completion of lactation, the plant can be re-included in therapeutic or prophylactic means.
Literature:
- Oregano (Origanum vulgare) extract for food preservation and improvement in gastrointestinal health (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6508890/#:~:text=Another%20important%20component%20of%20the,anti%2Dmicrobial14%E2%80%9316.)
- What are the health benefits of oregano? (https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/266259#risks)
- 6 Science-Based Health Benefits of Oregano (https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/6-oregano-benefits)
Author: Natalia Kandybey, Candidate of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Quality Director of PJSC Pharmaceutical Factory “VIOLA”
