Oregano (Origanum vulgare) Description and Use

Origanum vulgare also known as Oregano

Oregano is considered a remedy for respiratory problems such as coughs and bronchitis, although there is no conclusive proof of its effectiveness. Unverified uses in folk medicine include treatment of bloating, gas, urinary tract problems, painful menstruation, rheumatoid arthritis, swollen glands, and lack of perspiration.



It's difficult to think of a common kitchen herb like Oregano as a medical remedy, but it has in fact been used as a drug since the time of the ancient Greeks and Chinese. In China, doctors prescribed it to relieve fever, vomiting, diarrhea, jaundice, and itchy skin, while the Greeks made compresses from the leaves to treat sores and aching muscles.


The primary ingredients in Oregano are thymol and carvacrol, which are also found in thyme. These compounds, researchers have found, help loosen phlegm in the lungs and relieve spasms in the bronchial passages. Many commercial cough remedies, including cough drops and skin rubs such as Vicks VapoRub, contain thymol.















Source: http://www.en.wikipilipinas.org/index.php?title=Origanum_vulgare