Unlocking the Power of Oregano: Why You Should Make It a Staple in Your Kitchen

Oregano, the well-known spice, is a plant with a variety of powerful healing properties. It possesses numerous benefits. The plant contains vitamins and minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium. What makes it potent and effective for healing are the antioxidants—the phytochemicals it contains.

Oregano has been studied for its effective compounds in combating bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. The plant contains two main components: Thymol – a compound with strong antiseptic activity; and Carvacrol – a substance proven in studies to have the ability to destroy contaminants. It is also what gives oregano its unique aroma.

One way to prevent illnesses is through an anti-inflammatory diet, which includes foods with anti-inflammatory properties. This, of course, doesn’t replace medication when there’s a disease, but antioxidant-rich foods added to your diet can be very helpful. Try incorporating oregano into your daily menu as a spice that not only adds flavor but also improves health and prevents disease. You can mix it into salads, add to pesto spreads, or cook in dishes.

You can prepare homemade oregano oil, which has a moderate but definitely sufficient potency. Add three tablespoons of dried oregano to a jar and pour in a cup of good olive oil. Store in a closed cabinet for three weeks, shaking the jar occasionally. The oil absorbs the plant's properties and can be used to dress salads and cooked meals.

Whether used as a spice or plant, even small amounts offer significant gains.

Oregano oil has therapeutic strength that can be used as a complementary treatment. It acts similarly to antibiotics but without chemicals. It aids various digestive processes and is particularly effective against the H. pylori bacterium, especially for those struggling to eradicate it. It’s also beneficial for sore throats and respiratory issues like coughs and phlegm.

For external use, oregano oil can help with skin problems such as fungal infections, eczema, mosquito bites, and more. It’s also good for applying to sore muscles. Avoid applying it on open wounds.

It's important to use oregano oil in proper doses, as the oil is not selective. It is potent and can potentially affect the good gut bacteria, so for prolonged use, taking probiotics is recommended to maintain friendly bacteria.

Zohara Sharvit is a seasoned N.D. naturopath and an iridology-based diagnostician, with extensive experience in treatment, consultation, and workshop facilitation. To book a free workshop, call 073-2221290