Oregano

At a Glance

Common name

Oregano

Scientific name

Origanum vulgare

Family

Lamiaceae

Region

Mediterranean

Plant part

Aerial parts

Caffeine

Caffeine Free

Evidence

Insufficient

Safety review

Safety information on file

Botanical Description

A bushy upright perennial with opposite oval grey-green toothed leaves on square stems and small clusters of tiny tubular pink-purple flowers in bracted heads; the aerial parts are used.

Also known as: Wild Marjoram, Oregano, Mountain Joy

Historical Background

Oregano has been a Mediterranean culinary and medicinal herb for millennia, prized by Greeks and Romans for its aromatic leaves. A gentle tea of the leaves is traditionally sipped for respiratory and digestive comfort.

Earliest recorded uses: Mediterranean and Greek traditions for millennia; a culinary and respiratory herb.

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Warm, herbaceous, slightly spicy, aromatic

Tea Preparation

Modern Evidence

Oregano has a tradition for respiratory and digestive comfort; preclinical work shows antioxidant and antimicrobial activity (carvacrol, thymol). Clinical evidence is insufficient; it is not a treatment for infection, cough, or any disease, and the pure essential oil should not be taken internally.

Evidence levels describe the state of research for the traditional use discussed here, not a recommendation. Historical use does not imply effectiveness.