Oregano

Oregano

Botanical name: Origanum vulgare

Life cycle: Perennial

Height: 30-60 cm

Position: Full sun

Soil preference: Well drained

Description

Oregano, also called origanum or wild marjoram, is an aromatic, perennial herb of the mint family (Lamiaceae) known for its flavourful leaves and flowering tops. Oregano is a spreading perennial ground cover plant. It has compact, oval, dark-green leaves with a reddish brown stalk. The pinkish purple flowers are small and borne in clusters. The plant is approximately 30-45 cm in height reaching up to 60 cm when in flower.

Uses

Oregano is a well-known herb common in Mediterranean cuisine.  Leaves are used fresh or dried in pizza, spaghetti, and marinara sauces, plus many other Italian dishes. It also complements beef or lamb stews, gravies, salads, soups, even tomato juice, poultry, cheese, and fish. It combines well with other ingredients such as tomatoes, chilli, onions, garlic, olives, parsley, and basil.

Oregano is often used dried, and is typically harvested just before the flowers bloom, when the flavour and aroma is at its peak.

Oregano contains a volatile oil (containing carvacrol and thymol), tannins, resin, sterols, and flavonoids. Both carvacrol and thymol are antibacterial and antifungal.

Oregano is strongly antiseptic with potent activity against many bacteria and fungi. It can aid many acute and chronic infections affecting the gastro-intestinal and respiratory tracts, especially gastroenteritis, bronchitis, coughs and tonsilitis.

Oregano inhibits gut flora (bacteria naturally occurring within the gut) and as such it can be useful to alleviate symptoms such as wind, bloating and abdominal discomfort.

Oregano and its oil can be used externally for arthritis, painful joints, and muscular pain (Caution: external use may cause irritation to the skin).

A tea made of the leaves is soothing and restful. 

The plant repels many insect pests, so it useful to grow in the vegetable garden. They flowers are also very attractive to attract bees.

Growing conditions

Oregano prefers a well-drained soil in full sun. Stems can get woody with age and regular trimming encourages fresh new growth.

Organically grown plant in a biodegradable coir pot.