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Oregano
Oregano comes from the mint family and can be used interchangeably with marjoram as they are so closely related, in fact wild marjoram is actually oregano! It has highly antibacterial and antiviral properties making it a favorite for winter use. Use in your culinary dishes all through the winter season to ward off viruses and bacteria and to strengthen the immune system.
Origanum vulgare
Family: Laminaceae – mint
Parts used: leaves and blossoms
Analgesic
Antibacterial
Antifungal
Antioxidant
Antispasmodic
Anti-Inflammatory
Antiseptic
Antiviral
Antiparasitic
Carminative
Digestive
Emmenagogue
Expectorant
Nervine
Energetics/Body Systems Affected
Cooling
Drying
Respiratory
Digestive
Nervous
Uses
Fungal infections such as athlete's foot, ringworm, etc.
Vaginal yeast infections and candida.
Respiratory problems; can ease lung congestion and bronchial inflammation.
Sinus congestion
Cough, cold and flu
Promotes sweating which helps rid the body of toxins during sickness.
Fever and heat stroke
Measles and chicken pox
Bronchitis, spasmodic coughs, etc.
Muscle, uterine and stomach cramps, and spasms.
Aching joints and muscles, rheumatism, swelling, inflammation, etc.
Digestive aid; gas, flatulence, bloating, etc.
Diarrhea, vomiting
Urinary problems
Bacterial infections and sores
Parasites
Tooth ache, mouth sores, dental inflammation
Headache and pain reliever
Cuts, scrapes, and wounds
Nervousness, insomnia, tension, and anxiety
Can dissolve milk knots in nursing mothers (apply a fresh poultice or salve).
Nutrient rich; vitamins A, C, K, iron, calcium, manganese, antioxidants.
Deters food borne bacteria and parasites.
Pest control to kill fleas and other bugs on contact (essential oil is best for this).
Dandruff
Lice
Cleanse and disinfect
Makes a great hair rinse
Eczema, sore and other skin issues, and infections.
Anti-aging (internal consumption)
Food; add liberally to culinary dishes
Tea
Powder, capsules, sprinkle
Vinegar
Extract, liniment
Herbal oil
Salve, ointment, balm
Honey, syrup
Bath, foot soak, steam
Gargle, mouthwash
Essential oil (this is a different species with stronger properties)
Oregano can be easily grown in your garden. You can start your seeds indoors 6 weeks before the last frost, purchase a start from your local nursery, divide an established plant or directly sow the seeds outdoors after the last frost date.
Choose a sunny, warm location in rich soil, space 12” apart.
Water light to moderately.
Oregano is beneficial to any plant it is planted to next to, improving the growth and flavor of the plant and keeping off pesky invaders.
Harvest just before blooming and keep cutting as blossoms appear to keep the plant producing.
References
Essential Herbal Wisdom
Homegrown Herbs
The Herbal Kitchen
