Oregano is a hardy plant from the mint family, native to the Mediterranean but also grown in not-too-hot, not-too-cold regions worldwide. It comes in many varieties, each with its flavor. In the Indian subcontinent, it's known as ‘Jungali Tulsi’ or ‘Himalayan marjoram’ and is a popular spice. Oregano is used traditionally to help with issues like coughs, digestion, and menstrual problems.
Besides its health benefits, oregano is a kitchen favorite. Its dried leaves and oil are used to flavor pasta, sauces, pizzas, and salad dressings. Adding oregano to your meals can boost their flavor and make them more aromatic. It's tasty and nutritious, that's why people love it.
Key Nutrients Found in Oregano
Oregano is packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Here's a breakdown of the key nutrients found in one teaspoon (1 gram) of dried oregano:
Nutritional Profile:
- Calories: 3
- Protein: 0.1 grams
- Dietary Fiber: 0.4 grams
Vitamins:
- Vitamin A: 0.9 micrograms
- Vitamin B6: Less than 0.1 milligrams
- Vitamin E: 0.2 milligrams
- Folate: 2.4 micrograms
- Vitamin K: 6.2 micrograms (7% of the recommended daily value)
Minerals:
- Calcium: 16 milligrams
- Potassium: 12.6 milligrams
- Iron: 0.4 milligrams (2% of the recommended daily value)
- Magnesium: 2.7 milligrams
Oregano is particularly high in dietary fiber, calcium, iron, potassium, and Vitamin K, making it a great addition to a balanced diet. Even a small amount can contribute to your daily nutritional needs, especially for Vitamin K and iron.
Oregano Benefits for Health
Boosts Immunity: Oregano is rich in vitamins A, C, and E, which help boost your immune system. Regular consumption can protect you from seasonal illnesses.
Aids Digestion: Oregano is high in fiber, aiding digestion and alleviating issues like gas, indigestion, and bloating. It can help keep your digestive system healthy and efficient.
Reduces Cholesterol: Oregano contains bioactive components like carvacrol and gamma-terpinene, which can help lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels, supporting heart health.
Manages Diabetes: Oregano helps regulate glucose and insulin levels in the body, making it beneficial for managing blood sugar and keeping diabetes under control.
Relieves Joint Pain: The anti-inflammatory properties in oregano can help reduce joint pain and inflammation, offering relief and improving mobility.
Eases Menstrual Pain: Oregano's antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties can help reduce menstrual pain. Consuming a decoction made from oregano leaves can provide significant relief.
How to Use Oregano
- Sprinkle on Cooked Vegetables: Enhance the flavor of your veggies by adding oregano while cooking.
- Use in Marinades or Stuffing: Incorporate oregano into your marinades or stuffing for a herby twist.
- Add to Bread or Pizza: Sprinkle oregano on bread or pizza before baking for added flavor.
- Mix in Salads: Fresh oregano leaves can be a tasty addition to salads.
- Combine with Tomatoes and Olive Oil: Mix tomato slices with olive oil and feel the different taste.
- Add to Soups: Boost the flavor of your soups by adding oregano.
- Make Oregano Tea: Brew tea from dried oregano leaves for a warm, health-boosting drink.
Himalayan Oregano
At Nirvana Organic, we're proud to source Himalayan oregano directly from women farmers in Uttarakhand. We offer a wide range of natural products, including rare organic herbs, herbal teas, handmade jams and chutneys, kitchen essentials, and much more.
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