Oregano, more than just an Italian herb?

I love to use oregano in my culinary efforts. The smell and taste are amazing but did you know that oregano and many other herbs have amazing health benefits too? Not only does oregano help protect the immune system, but it can also increase energy levels, protect against diabetes, improve digestion, strengthen your bones and even help your heart. It is more than just a tasty addition to an Italian meal.

Oregano is an that is closely related to mint. In both of these plants, the leaves are used but interestingly when they are dried, their flavor increases. Oregano has been used for thousands of years in medical treatments. Oil of oregano is a very concentrated form of oregano and as with most essential oils should be diluted or used with a carrier oil.

I write a lot about antioxidants because they are so important to your health and oregano contains two very powerful antioxidants rosmarinic acid and thymol. Antioxidants reduce oxidative stress in your body, think of it like rust in your body. Free radicals can cause cancer and other chronic diseases and adding antioxidants improve your health greatly. Sprinkle with some oregano to improve your health and keep those free radicals at bay. The antibacterial properties in oregano can help the body defend itself against bacteria that can affect the body. Because it has a stimulating agent, oregano can increase the production of white blood cells and your metabolism to help you heal quicker. Because your metabolism is functioning better, your body will feel energized, your circulation is improved and you are receiving more oxygen-rich blood. Oregano’s unique composition contains B vitamins which help with this process.

I always say, “Eat the things that God created without chemicals or GMOs and you will be healthier.” and oregano is full of good things including manganese, calcium, iron and vitamin K, and when you add its fiber in you can see what it is awesome at detoxifying the body. Research has proven that it can help liver function and even speed up toxin removal. Fiber is essential for a healthy digestive system and keeps things, well, moving along so to speak and for something so small, it contains a lot so sprinkle it on.

Osteoporosis is becoming common in the older generation. Calcium, iron, and manganese are some of the most critical minerals that are needed for bone health and we just do not seem to get enough of them. And as you have read oregano has all of them in significant amounts. Oregano also contains omega-3 fatty acids in the most natural form. Though there is a lot of talk about cholesterol and how bad it can be we need good cholesterol that improves your health. Healthy cholesterol such as omega-3 can help you rebalance levels and reduce inflammation in your heart. This will help to prevent strokes and heart attacks. So much power in a tiny leaf right?

If you have never tasted oregano give it a try, you will love it and its health-giving benefits. If you are allergic to mint try just a small bit to make sure you do not have a reaction. It is very easy to grow and is delicious fresh in your salads. Experiment with it in your foods and reap the health benefits of this tiny giant.

Resources:
www.organicfacts.net