- Region
- Europe
- Origin
- Europe, Asia (west and central), Africa (north)
- Other names
- Wilde marjolein
- Traditions
- Folk magic and herbal magic
Europe · Herb · № 217
Origanum vulgare
Herb · Europe
Oregano
Origanum vulgare
A culinary herb with carvacrol and thymol, which inhibit bacteria and fungi in the laboratory. There is no good evidence that oregano oil treats infections in humans; undiluted oil irritates skin and mucous membranes.
Safety notes
Not with bleeding disorders, diabetes or allergy to the mint family. Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Cautions by tradition (1)
- Herbs for viral infections: Not with bleeding disorders, diabetes or allergy to the mint family.
Preparation
Fresh or dried as a culinary herb; as tea. The oil only well diluted, externally.
Use in traditions
The name comes from Greek: 'joy of the mountain'. Greeks and Romans crowned bridal couples with oregano. In the Middle Ages the herb was used for coughs and stomach ache. After the Second World War American soldiers returning from Italy made it popular on pizza in America. In herbal magic associated with love, courage, action and peace.
Applications
Use by tradition
How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.
Herbs for viral infections
Attributed effects
Antiviral (terpenes, thymol); especially for respiratory infections; further for muscle pain, athlete's foot, dandruff, earache, flu, acne, varicose veins.
Preparation and amount
In food, or as an oil or cream; 200 mg 3 times a day, no longer than 6 weeks.
Caution: Not with bleeding disorders, diabetes or allergy to the mint family.
Folklore and herbal magic
Symbolic meanings from folk use and modern herbal magic. These are handed-down associations, not effects.
Love, courage, action, peace.
Home, kitchen and folk use
Preparation and amount
Culinary herb; in cheese-and-herb rice and herb bread.
- Ways to prepare herbs
- Tea (infusion)Salve and balmPowder and kitchen