The herb “oregano” is of Greek origin and means “delight of the mountain.” It is a modest flowering plant coming from the mint family and is the most used herb in the Mediterranean cuisine. Oregano is high in vitamins A, B6, C, E, and K, as well as calcium, magnesium, iron, and potassium as well as it is rich in antioxidants. It has oils that make it a multitasking herb that gives it the full spectrum of antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory actions.
Oregano can be used to clear congestion or calm a cough or a cold. You can make a facial steam by combining fresh oregano with other healing herbs like lavender in a pot of boiling water, then covering your head with a towel over the pot and inhaling deeply for several minutes.
You can also purchase oregano oil as a supplement or essential oil, and it can be used both topically and orally. Combine it with a carrier oil (like coconut or olive) and rub it on sore muscles or on your neck or temples to relieve pain or headaches. Follow directions on the bottle for proper dosing if using it orally.