Oregano has a long history of being used as a healing plant. It is not only used for flavoring food, but it also has a wide range of medicinal benefits. In this article, you will learn about the health benefits of oregano and why you should grow oregano in your home. It is a social herb that is good for bonding with other people. It is a great stress reducer, and it can help you manage your blood pressure and heart rate. Here are some great reasons why you should grow oregano in your home.
Oregano Is a Perennial Herb
It is a perennial herb that doesn’t need to be replanted every year, and can grow outdoors in the garden or as indoor plants if you put them on sunny windowsills. Harvesting oregano is easy – just cut the stem close to ground level when it reaches 4-5 inches tall!
Oregano Is Drought Tolerant
Oregano is a tough plant that thrives in an environment where it’s difficult. It is native to the Mediterranean region, and can grow anywhere with rocky, dry soil to call home! These plants prefer just sunlight and well-draining ground without needing any extra help from fertilizing or watering. Mild winters aren’t something oreganos struggle with – they’ve been known to survive temperatures as low as 0 degrees Fahrenheit!
Oregano Attracts Pollinators
The vibrant, colorful flowers on oregano plants are attractive to pollinators like honeybees. What a great way to attract bees into your garden! The bright colors will also make it more appealing for visitors who stop in and see your garden.
Oregano Repels Garden Pests
This common plant repels and kills pests, including mosquitos and cucumber beetles. These little bugs will also eat aphids or whiteflies with relish if they’re hatching from an oregano flower!
Oregano Pairs Well With Strong Flavors
Oregano is a natural pairing with many dishes, including garlic, lemon and fish. It also works well in tomato sauce or as an ingredient for cooking meats like chicken parmesan!
Dried Oregano is a Versatile Herb
When oregano leaves are dried, it becomes a minty and earthy spice that can be used to enhance the flavor of tomato sauce or soups. It is an excellent ingredient all by itself!
Oregano Fights Bacteria
Oregano is an antioxidant and antibacterial plant that can be used to fight various infections. One study found that carvacrol compounds present in oregano oil are effective when fighting drug-resistant strains of bacteria, such as Staphylococcus! The researchers combined these with silver nanoparticles for a more powerful treatment against the bacteria.
Oregano is Good For Digestion
Oregano is often used as a remedy for digestive health and has been found to possess both carvacrol and thymol, which are also found in thyme. In fact, oregano oil has been shown to be an ally against many fungal infections.
