A member of the mint family, this botanical is native to Southern Europe. Oregano has bushy peppery upright spreading stems with purple, pink or white flowers. Popularly known as the “pizza herb”, this herb has a balsamic aroma flavor and is relative of basil and marjoram.
The main use of this herb is in culinary preparations. There are many different varieties in flavor and Greek and Spain have the stronger flavors but the Mexican variety is perhaps the strongest and is used in chili and other spicy Mexican dishes. Italian and common oregano are milder in taste.
Oregano is used in many recipes around the world for dishes such as garlic bread, Italian tomato sauce, Greek salads, grilled fish and much, much more. Origanum is the oil in oregano that is used in scented oils for flavoring liquors, toiletries and other finished products.
Parts used are the leaves, oil and the whole plant. In medicine, it is taken internally in cold and cough remedies. This botanical is also used for menstrual cramps, stomach complaints, and to relieve colic and flatulence. Externally it is applied on the body for muscular and skeletal pains. It is also used to rid the scalp of lice and in aromatherapy.
This herb makes a great addition to any garden, if you have the right climate zone of course. Make sure you select the variety that you will use in your cuisine and use the leaves, as you need them. There is nothing better than fresh herbs in a recipe and guests will never know why your cooking always comes out better! |
