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Oregano oil is best known as an herbal remedy for colds and flu. The plant it is derived from is highly prized for its culinary and medicinal uses. It gives off a distinct aroma and pleasant flavor usually associated with Italian dishes, but it also has a significant presence in many different cuisines from all over the world. It is one of the herbs extensively used as medication in folk medicine of Europe and Asia. Its antimicrobial properties have been noted since ancient times. Oregano oil in particular has become more popular in the past few years.<\/p>\n
Origanum vulgare<\/em> is the plant species we refer to as oregano. It is native to the Mediterranean region. During Greek Antiquity it made its way to the Middle East and consequently China and the rest of Asia. Scholars believed that the Ancient Greeks first cultivated wild oregano as it was a sacred herb in Greek Mythology. Hippocrates, the father of Western medicine, first documented its antiseptic properties. Followers of Hippocratic medicine and early physicians used parts of the plants, usually the leaves, in treatment of respiratory and digestive ailments.<\/p>\n Oregano oil is sometimes confused with marjoram, which is in fact Origanum majorana<\/em>. True oregano oil is obtained entirely from oregano, never from marjoram.<\/p>\n Fights off Infections<\/strong><\/p>\n Folk medicine practices of different communities have utilized extracts of the oregano plant to fight off infections. Oregano oil is a purified form of oregano extracts. It is a reputed expectorant that noticeably alleviates dry couch and related problems of the upper respiratory tract, the reason why it is in wide use to fight off colds.<\/p>\n Reduces Inflammation<\/strong><\/p>\n Oregano oil contributes to muscle and joint health. In the old days, physicians believed that the strong taste of crushed and juiced oregano leaves strengthens the body and promotes flexibility. It has long been used as a therapeutic remedy for arthritis. Today the discovery of organic compounds naturally occurring in Origanum vulgare<\/em> explains its analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects.<\/p>\nOregano Health Benefits<\/h2>\n