The health benefits of oregano can be obtained thanks to the number of nutrients in it. Although it has almost no calories, oregano is rich in vitamin K, vitamin A, vitamin E, calcium, magnesium, and potassium which are very good for the body.
So far, oregano is known as a food flavoring ingredient. Even though not only that, there are various benefits of oregano which are a pity to miss. Oregano is believed to be able to overcome a variety of complaints ranging from relieving colds and coughs, to fighting free radicals that cause various chronic diseases.
These are the Benefits of Oregano
There are various health benefits of Oregano, including:
1. Relieves colds and coughs
Although it needs further research, oregano is believed to help relieve colds and coughs. To get this benefit, you can drop in oregano oil or add dry oregano to taste in warm water. Breathe in the steam or use this mixed water for a shower.
2. Lowering bad cholesterol levels
Clinical research shows that taking oregano after meals, for 3 months, can help reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) levels and increase good cholesterol (HDL) levels in people with high cholesterol.
In this study, total cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood were not affected. Even so, a decrease in LDL and an increase in HDL can still have a good effect on heart health.
3. Helps fight infection-causing bacteria
Oregano contains compounds that can fight bacteria. A study shows that oregano essential oil can inhibit the growth of the bacteria Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which can cause infection. However, this benefit still needs further investigation.
4. Kills parasites in the intestines
Although it still needs further study, research shows that consumption of oregano oil for 6 weeks can help reduce parasites in the intestines, such as Blastocystis hominis, which can cause diarrhea.
5. Ward off free radicals
Apart from being rich in vitamins and minerals, oregano essential oil is also rich in antioxidants which are useful for fighting free radicals that cause oxidative damage to body tissues. By eating foods high in antioxidants, the body will not be susceptible to chronic diseases, such as heart disease and cancer.
6. Helps heal surgical wounds
A study has shown that ointments containing oregano extract are more effective in healing surgical wounds than petroleum jelly. However, once again, the effectiveness of oregano in this regard still needs further investigation.
To get the benefits of oregano from number 2 to 5, you can mix oregano oil, oregano powder, or dried oregano leaves into cooking or food. Meanwhile, to heal wounds, you can use oregano oil as a topical medicine.
Oregano Side Effects
Oregano or oregano oil is generally safe for consumption in food. Even so, there are some side effects that need to be aware of from its use, namely:
Allergic reaction
For those who are allergic to mint leaves, allergic reactions may also occur after consuming oregano. The reason is, this one herbal plant is still included in the mint leaf family.
Stomach feels uncomfortable
Some people may also experience stomach discomfort after consuming oregano.
Skin irritation
Using oregano oil on the skin can also irritate the skin. Skin irritation usually occurs when oregano oil is applied to the skin in concentrations of more than 1%.
Make sure you use oregano within reasonable limits so that side effects of oregano can be avoided. For those of you who are pregnant or suffering from certain diseases, it’s a good idea to consult a doctor before consuming or using oregano as an herbal medicine.
