The Wonders of Oregano
Oregano (oreganum vulgare)
I have used oregano all my life, in so many of my favorite family meals. It is a traditional herb in my family, and we use it very freely as a way to bring flavor and depth to a variety of dishes. As I have journeyed further into the world of nutrition, I came to learn that oregano is not only a great herb to cook with, but that it is also an herb long known for its medicinal benefits. It’s been used for thousands of years as a traditional medicine, as a topical agent to help curb infections and alleviate sore muscles, as well as to help alleviate indigestion, lung disease, menstrual dysfunction, infection, and inflammatory issues.
Today, it is understood that Oregano contains several powerful antioxidants. These compounds have been shown to have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties; as well as supportive benefits for blood sugar regulation, and cardiovascular health.
So, with all these positive attributes and its fabulous flavor, you’re likely asking yourself: How can I get the most out of oregano when I’m in the kitchen? I will tell you that the possibilities are endless. There are myriad ways to add it to our health routine, and countless recipes that you can incorporate Oregano into.
It is also an easy herb to grow. It grows so well that I would suggest you plant some in a large pot—to help keep it contained, my experience has been that it easily spreads far and wide. This is just the kind of plant I love, my thumb is only slightly green!
For the recipe of the month I’m going to actually share two. These recipes come from Dr. Ed Bauman of Bauman Wellness. I have had the honor of getting to know him while working through his Facilitator in Training Program. In his book Spice for Life, there is an entire chapter on Oregano and these two recipes really spoke to me.
One is an oregano, orange and honey tisane.
You may or may not be familiar with the word tisane. A tisane is an herb or spice infused drink that does not contain actual “true tea,” and is typically used for medicinal purposes. And, it’s a great way to add oregano into your diet. The hot water pulls the essential oils out, while steeping. These oils contain antifungal and antibacterial properties, along with a good punch of antioxidants. The oregano does have an astringent character; which is why I like it paired with the sweetness of the orange and the honey. It’s also a great way to soothe an upset stomach or help relieve symptoms of the common cold.
The second recipe is an Italian chickpea soup.
It incorporates all the savory goodness of this wonderful herb. The soup is a traditional recipe chock full of veggies and greens. You could make it a bit heartier by adding some good quality sweet Italian sausage, or for my veggie friends you may want to add some tofu or tempeh. However you roll, this soup is a quick and easy recipe that can be ready within an hour for dinner. Add some crusty baguette or if you are gluten free (like me!) add some cheesy broccoli bread.
And if you need a third recipe that includes oregano, check out my lamb stew.
I am excited to note that I will be teaching these recipes live at Adler Commons on 42nd and Prescott in NE Portland.
First class will be at 5:00 pm on Wednesday February 23rd . If you are interested in attending, you can sign up here.
I hope you enjoy the recipes. I will be teaching once a month, live and in person, so I sure do hope I see you soon.
Be well-Live well
Rosie
References:
Dr. Bauman E, Moorthy S, Spice for Life Self-Healing Recipes, Remedies and Research. Berkeley, California: Bauman Wellness Experience; 2020.
Bozin B, Mimica-Dukic N, Simin N, Anackov G. Characterization of the volatile composition of essential oils of some lamiaceae spices and the antimicrobial and antioxidant activities of the entire oils. J Agric Food Chem. 2006 Mar 8;54(5):1822-8. doi: 10.1021/jf051922u. PMID: 16506839.
McCormick Science Institute. Oregano: Overview of the Literature on Health Benefits.