The first information about oregano (what kind of plant) is recorded in ancient Greece. In the book “Medicinal Plants,” Dioscoridos described his many years of research and proved that all herbs and roots have healing properties to a greater or lesser extent. Later, already in Ancient Rome, Celius Apicius compiled a list of dishes that the rich Romans preferred. Almost all of them contain a significant amount of spices, including oregano.
The main place of growth of this spice are considered the southern and central regions of Europe. This perennial plant reaches a height of up to 80 centimeters, has elliptical leaves, white or purple flowers, a creeping root. Oregano contains thymol, essential oils,
tannins, carvacrol and rosmarinic acid. Due to the aromatic properties of oregano, its use extends to the cosmetics industry.
As for cooking, the taste of spices perfectly combines with salads, ham, fish sauces, lamb and pork meat, baked potatoes, barbecue and soups. If in the process of cooking you did not have oregano at hand, what to replace without compromising on taste - the issue is solved. Marjoram will come to your aid, but it should be remembered that its aroma is more astringent and rich.
Thirty years ago in Russia, almost no one knew about the existence of oregano. What kind of spice, only foreign culinary specialists had an idea. Today it is used both in widely known dishes, and in their home gastronomic experiments. Try it and you add these fragrant leaves to tomatoes, eggs, beans or game.
Studies in England have revealed other beneficial properties of oregano. That this medicinal plant is now clinically confirmed. Carvacrol contained in the plant is one of the strongest antibiotics along with penicillin or streptomycin. This substance can be used for fungal infections, parasites and even for the destruction of Staphylococcus aureus, common in medical facilities.
Oregano has a positive effect on the state of the nervous system, relieves insomnia, relieves stress, improves appetite, removes cramps, and regulates the digestion process. Drugs based on it have anti-inflammatory, analgesic and expectorant drugs. In addition, this seasoning has laxative and diuretic properties.
In folk medicine, oregano is also used. For example, it is added to tea for chronic bronchitis, tonsillitis, flu, pneumonia and diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. Those suffering from rheumatism, boils and a rash are recommended to take baths, make compresses. People with gum disease should rinse with infusion from this plant.
Such a number of useful properties makes you seriously think about the "status" of oregano. What is it: seasoning or a medicinal plant? In any case, it is worth remembering the measure. Abuse of oregano is contraindicated in women during pregnancy and in men who have problems with the genitourinary system.