According to Medical News Today, Oregano (Origanum vulgare) is an herb from the mint, or Lamiaceae family used to flavor foods and treat health conditions. Oregano is related to joy and happiness by the Greeks and Romans. The word "Oregano" derives from the Greek words “oros,” meaning mountain, and “ganos,” meaning joy. There are diverse types of oregano and the most common type is Oregano vulgare, also called Spanish thyme and wild marjoram.
Its flavor and scent are due to the antioxidants available in Oregano leaves, the antioxidants thymol, carvacrol, limonene, terpinene, ocimene, and caryophyllene. Oregano provides other antioxidants when people consume it within the diet. Oregano leaves are already used for thousands of years, within the Mediterranean region, people would use them as traditional and herbal medicine to treat illnesses like skins sores, muscles aches, asthma, cramps, diarrhea, indigestion, colds, and to boost overall health. Scientist continues to be in the process of doing more research to substantiate the health benefits of using oregano, but also there's some evidence that it might be an enormous help to fight bacteria, relieve inflammation, regulate blood sugar, and lipids, and fight cancer.
Oregano leaves extract is a significant source of fiber and vitamin A, E, C, and K. Vitamin A helps to keep up the immune system also needed for eye health. Vitamin C and E act as antioxidants that protect cells. Vitamin K functions in the clotting of the blood. Oregano contains a high amount of folate, iron, calcium, magnesium, and vitamin B6. These nutrients assist information of DNA and RNA, metabolizing bones, prevention of anemia, and optimal brain function. Other than that, it also contains potassium, manganese, and copper. It has a high content of antioxidants which helps to neutralize free radicals. it has lutein, cryptoxanthin, and zeaxanthin as carotenoids which are greatly needed for good vision health. Medicinally it's effective for treating colds, flu, indigestion, and regulation of menstrual cycle. Leaves and flowers are mild stimulants that enhance the flow of bile from the gall bladder to the intestines and also aids digestion and gas pains.
In the Philippines, Oregano leaves are popular as cough and cold remedies. The leaves are often boiled and consumed to relax your body. Here are the steps in making Oregano tea, that we all must know and try.
1. Bring a minimum of 300ml of water to a boil.
2. Wash the oregano leaves thoroughly.
3. Place the oregano leaves in a mug, and pour over the boiling water. Allow the herbs to soak for five minutes. Remove the oregano leaves
4. If you wish to flavor it, add honey for more sweetness and enjoy!
Now that your Oregano tea is ready, why not take a sip and savor the good aroma coupled with health benefits not just for you but for your entire family.
NO I Zamubec Alomar C. Adlawan, RND
References:
1.What are the health benefits of Oregano?
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/266259#benefits
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/266259#:~:text=The%20Greeks%20and,in%20the%20diet.
2. How to make oregano tea
https://www.acouplecooks.com/oregano-tea/
3. Health benefits of Oregano
