Monograph #5

Oregano

By Daibhaid A. O'Broder

Common Name —

Mountain Mint, Origanum, Wild Marjoram

Genus —

Origanum vulgare

Source —

Oregano is principally derived from the above ground parts of the genus plant. The Origanum vulgare is a member of the mint family (Labiatae). It should not be confused, however with the close relation, marjoram.

Chemical Components —

This plant contains tannins, gallic acid, and an iron-binding phenolic substance along with tocopherols.

Parts Used —

Flowers, leaves, stem, and essential oils

Description —

This woody perennial has a pungent, dark green leaf structure, and clusters of flowers, late in the summer. The leaves have an antiseptic quality and can be chewed for temporary relief of a toothache. The Origanum vulgare (Aureum Crispum) has a mild savory flavor.

Actions —

Antioxidant properties have been associated with this herb due to the high levels of tocopherol. An oregano extract showed antimutagenic activity against carcinogens of the dietary order. Gamma-tocopherol also occurs in high concentrations. This homologue is reported to be the most beneficial next to the alpha-tocopherol regarding antioxidant activity. (Lagouri & Boskou, 1996)

Phenolic compounds, such as the gallic acids in the oregano, may join/bind with iron and decrease its absorption in the lower GI area. (Brune et al. 1989). A common food mold composed of Oregano has shown to inhibit the mycelial growth of Aspergillus parasiticus. (Tantaoui & Beraoud, 1994).

Common Forms —

It is commonly found in:

Capsules: 450 mg

Oil: 0.45 fl. Oz.

Also as a spice.

Reported Uses —

Herbalists and Naturopaths have used the herb as a mild tonic, diaphoretic, and menstrual stimulant. It is a flavoring agent and a preservative in kitchen use as well. The antibacterial and antioxidant properties of the herb have led modern herbalists to recommend its use for superficial and systemic infections.

Dosage —

As a supplement to the daily diet it is recommended that 2 capsules be administered once to twice daily, preferably with a meal. You may also add a few drops of the oil to 8 fl oz. of milk or juice.

For topical use apply the oil directly to the affected region once or twice daily. After shampooing, you may allow it to remain for a few moments then rinse the hair. Add to pump soaps and use during showering and hand washing as an additional antiseptic.

Adverse Reactions —

Hypersensitivity has been noted to manifest in the form of pruitus, facial edema, dysphasia, dysphonia, and upper respiratory distress.

Interactions —

Iron Supplements should be administered 2 hours before or after the ingestion of oregano.

Contraindications —

Use cautiously if iron deficiency has been diagnosed.

Special Considerations —

Inform the individual that any previous hypersensitivity to herbs in the mint family may indicate a reaction to oregano.

Instruct the individual to discontinue use of oil or herb if rash or irritation occurs.

Inform the individual to avoid taking oregano with 2 hours of ingesting iron-based / containing foods or supplements.

Points of Interest —

Oregano is a wild, coarse plant with sprawling stems, pink or white flowerets, and a balsamic aroma; very pleasing to the senses and often confused, in the dried state, with cannabis.

The Greeks crowned newlyweds with the herb and planted it on graves.

Links to visit —

http://www.suite101.com/article.cfm/701/24422

http://www14.geocities.com/Heartland/1930/Oregano.html

http://www.herbaldave.com/Therapies/Aromatherapy/Single_Oils/Oregano-Wild.htm

References —

Benito M., et al. "Labiatae Allergy: Systemic Reactions Due to Ingestion of Oregano and Thyme," Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 76:416-18, 1996.

Brune, M., et al. "Iron Absorption and Phenolic Compounds: Importance of Different Phenolic Structures," Eur J Clin Nutr 43:547-48, 1989.

Lagouri, V., and Boskou D., "Nutrient Antioxidants in Oregano," Int J Food Sci Nutr47:493-97, 1996.

Tantaoui-Elaraki, A. and Beraoud, L., "Inhibition of Growth and Afaltoxin Production in Aspergillus parasiticus by Essential Oils of Selected Plant Materials," _J Environ Pathol Toxicol Oncol 13:67-72, 1994.

Fetrow, Charles A. and Avila, Juan R., Professional's Handbook of Complementary & Alternative Medicines. ISBN 0874349710.