Oregano. What is this spice?

2024 Author: Isabella Gilson | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-17 03:14

The first information about oregano (what kind of plant) was recorded in ancient Greece. In the book Medicinal Plants, Dioscoridos described his many years of research and proved that all herbs and roots have medicinal properties to a greater or lesser extent. Later, already in ancient Rome, Celius Apicius compiled a list of dishes that rich Romans preferred. Almost all of them contain significant amounts of spices, including oregano.

The main place of growth of this spice is 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, creeping root. Oregano contains thymol, essential oils, tannins, carvacrol and rosmarinic acid. Thanks to the aromatic properties of oregano, its use extends to the cosmetics industry.

When it comes to cooking, the flavor of the spice pairs perfectly with salads, ham, fish sauces, lamb and pork, baked potatoes, kebabs and soups. If during the cooking process you didn’t have oregano at hand, how to replace it without sacrificing taste is a solvable issue. to help youmarjoram will come, but it should be remembered that its aroma is more tart and rich.

Thirty years ago almost no one in Russia knew about the existence of oregano. What kind of spice it was, only foreign chefs had an idea. Today it is used both in well-known dishes and in their home gastronomic experiments. Try and add these fragrant leaves to tomatoes, eggs, beans or game.

Research carried out in England has revealed other useful properties of oregano. That it is a medicinal plant has now been 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, relieves spasms, and regulates the digestion process. Preparations based on it have anti-inflammatory, analgesic and expectorant agents. In addition, this seasoning has laxative and diuretic properties.

Oregano is also used in folk medicine. For example, it is added to tea for chronic bronchitis, tonsillitis, influenza, pneumonia and diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. Those suffering from rheumatism, boils and rashes are advised to take baths, make compresses. People with gum disease should dorinsing with an infusion of this plant.

Such a number of useful properties makes you seriously think about the "status" of oregano. What is it: seasoning or medicinal plant? In any case, it is worth remembering the measure. Abuse of oregano is contraindicated in women during pregnancy and men who have problems with the genitourinary system.