Oregano: therapeutic properties and contraindications

Oregano is a genus of plants that belongs to the Juniper family. One of the most popular varieties is common oregano, better known as oregano spice. This herb has not only a pleasant spicy flavor that is used in cooking. It also has useful properties and can be used in the treatment of various diseases. To know how to use oregano, it is important to understand what beneficial properties are inherent in it, what exactly is included in the composition of the plant.

Chemical Composition

Many representatives of the genus oregano have a valuable composition. The substances contained in herbal raw materials help to cope with diseases, strengthen the body, promote its rapid recovery and improve health. Oregano contains a range of health benefits.

1. The most valuable substance that is part of oregano - Carvacrol. This is a powerful antibiotic that is effective against the most common strains of bacteria.
2. Terpene is an antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory substance that helps cope with various infections.
3. Ellagic acid is a powerful antioxidant that prevents free radical damage to cells. It helps in the prevention of atherosclerosis and cancer, and has a cardioprotective effect.
4. Naringin is a substance that enhances the antioxidant effect and prevents the growth and division of tumor cells.
5. Thymol is a substance that provides antiseptic and antifungal effects, it can stimulate the immune system and cleanse the body of accumulated toxic substances. Thymol also promotes rapid healing of wounds and ulcers.
6. Sesquiterpenes - substances that have antiparasitic effect, normalize the functioning of the intestine, eliminate cramps, calm the nervous system.
7. Geranyl acetate - a component that stimulates the production of enzymes, normalizes digestion, has a mild diuretic effect.
8. Polyphenolic compounds - a broad spectrum of substances that affect the immune and cardiovascular systems.
9. Glycosides of flavonoid group (5 species) are components that have antiviral activity, stimulate hematopoiesis, increase the effectiveness of defense mechanisms.
10. Tannins - accelerate regeneration, normalize stools for diarrhea, establish the correct metabolic rate and activate the production of enzymes.
11. Antioxidant vitamins (C, A, E), B group, mineral compounds in high concentration.

The composition of the plant determines the medicinal properties. Oregano ordinary contains the highest concentration of essential oil and other active components that have a therapeutic effect.

What it looks like and where it grows

Oregano is a perennial herbaceous plant with small, fragrant flowers. In non-conventional medicine and cooking, the most common species used most often is common oregano.

This plant extends to a height of 30-50 cm. Oregano is most commonly found in countries of the Mediterranean basin. Its shoots and sprouts are green or reddish in color and it has pubescent ovate or oval leaves on short stalks. The flowers can vary in color from white to purple, depending on the species. The inflorescences are large, formed of small flowers that exude an expressive fragrance that attracts bees.

Species

Botanists and classifiers have divided the genus Oregano into 55 separate species. These species are native to South and West Asia and North America. Most of them are distributed in Mediterranean countries. Only a few species are popular in Eurasia, which grow mainly in the European part of the continent, as well as in southern Siberia. Here are the most popular species:

• common;
• marjoram;
• Syrian;
• Cretan.

Oregano is exactly the variety that is known as the popular oregano spice. This species is recognized as the most valuable in cooking, medicine and the perfume industry.

How thyme differs from oregano

Thyme and oregano have common characteristics - both genera belong to the Jasper family. In addition, thyme also has external similarities, because of which it is sometimes confused. But they are two completely different plants. Thyme is a very stunted plant, while oregano is usually larger and taller. Also oregano has larger inflorescences and leaves. The chemical composition of the plants also differs, although they have similar medicinal properties.

Harvesting and Storage

Harvesting oregano is very easy - this herb has a very long flowering period. The first inflorescences begin to open at the end of June. After 2-3 weeks, you can begin to collect it. The soft sprouts with inflorescences should be cut not lower than 25 cm from the ground. The cut twigs should be dried - on a spread out tablecloth, a diaper or a sheet of paper. Store dry, chopped herbs better in a closed container. So it will be able to retain its useful properties for 2 years.

Therapeutic properties of oregano

Due to its rich composition, the herb has a mass of useful properties. It has a beneficial effect on the female body, also contributes to a quick recovery from various childhood illnesses. In small quantities it can be used by men. There are more than three dozen diseases in which oregano can be useful.

For women

Oregano common is a "female doctor." This plant is used in the treatment of gynecological problems and hormonal disorders. Oregano has a positive effect on feelings during menstruation, helps to normalize the hormonal background and make the cycle regular. The herb is used in complex gatherings, which can be used during the planning stage of pregnancy to increase fertility.

Oregano not only contributes to normal hormonal background, it also effectively protects the female reproductive organs from tumors and malignant neoplasms. This herb is used as a preventive and therapeutic agent for erosions, inflammation of the ovaries. If diagnosed with cysts or polyps, you can also use infusions of oregano as part of complex therapy.

For Men

It is not recommended to use oregano too often for the therapy of men, because it contains plant hormones that have an identical formula and structure to estrogen. But men, too, can use the power of this herb to combat such problems:

• urethritis;
• prostatitis;
• Infections of the urogenital system.

This herb eliminates pathogenic bacterial microflora and generally has a beneficial effect on the urinary system. But the course of treatment should not exceed 7 days, because the herb can affect the functioning of the reproductive system and change the hormonal background.

Overdose, too long use and abuse of this herb can lead to sexual dysfunction. Too frequent use in the diet of the spice can cause early impotence in men or even provoke infertility. Therefore, it is important not to abuse this herbal remedy, and in the case of alarming symptoms - immediately cancel the reception and seek help from a doctor.

When pregnant.

The only period in a woman's life when you should not use oregano for intake is pregnancy. During this period, it is very dangerous to use various herbal gatherings that include plant hormones. Taking oregano or using this herb in the diet can upset the balance of hormones in the body. This scenario is especially dangerous in the first trimester of pregnancy, often uncontrolled intake of herbs ends in miscarriage.

In pregnancy, you can use oregano externally or as a means for inhalation, for example, for colds, but such actions must necessarily be coordinated with your doctor. Sometimes even a small dose of active ingredients can provoke problems related to fetal development or pregnancy.

Breastfeeding

Since ancient times, nursing mothers have used oregano as a means to normalize milk production, prevent stagnation and protect against mastitis. This herbal remedy can normalize the hormonal background, helps to recover faster after childbirth. In addition, during breastfeeding oregano supports women's health, helps to cope with fatigue, irritability, normalizes sleep.

For children

At an early age, physicians do not recommend using oregano, it is best to start using it after three years. Children can benefit tremendously from this plant. First, oregano stimulates the nervous system, helps control stress levels, as well as promoting rapid relaxation and improving memory. In addition, oregano can be used in pediatrics to treat conditions such as:

• urinary tract infections;
• allergic reactions;
• bronchial asthma;
• angina;
• stomatitis;
• sleep disorders;
• colds.

For children, a weak tea of this plant is mostly used. Too high concentration of substances of natural origin can cause endocrine disorders. You can also use oregano for teenagers - it helps with delayed puberty, normalizes the hormonal background. For girls during adolescence, oregano can be a safe natural cure for acne.

oregano in folk medicine

In folk medicine, oregano is most often used as a disinfectant and anti-inflammatory agent. In addition, plant extracts help to cope with various respiratory diseases, which are accompanied by coughing. Oregano produces expectorant, diaphoretic and choleretic effect, reduces blood pressure, normalizes the functioning of the nervous system and blood glucose levels. Also this plant is useful for diseases of the female and male reproductive systems. But for each diagnosis, the method of application is different.

In Diabetes Mellitus

Studies have shown that oregano is effective for diabetes. This herb produces the following therapeutic effects:

• lowers blood sugar levels;
• Normalizes the production of insulin;
• Increases the sensitivity of cells to insulin;
• cleanses the body of by-products of metabolism.

With diabetes herbal decoction should be drunk in courses of a week, taking 100 ml in the morning and evening, before breakfast and dinner. Decoction should be prepared from 20 grams of herbs and 500 ml of water, toast in a water bath for 30 minutes.

In pancreatitis

If diagnosed with chronic pancreatitis, you can improve your health and activate the recovery processes of the pancreas, using decoction of oregano. Drink it 2 tablespoons strictly before a meal, 10 minutes. The decoction should be prepared from 600 ml of water and 1 tablespoon of the collection, boil for 5 minutes over low heat, and then cool and strain. Store in the refrigerator. In the case of an exacerbation stop the treatment.

In chronic pancreatitis, you can also use this plant in combination with other herbs that stimulate the production of pancreatic enzymes, eliminate inflammation, cramps and pain. To restore the pancreas, use the following collection:

• 5 g of crushed licorice root;
• 10 g of oregano;
• 20 g immortelle;
• 10 g of chamomile.

It is necessary to take herbs in such proportions, mix and boil in 1 liter of water for 30 minutes. After the decoction has cooled, strain through gauze and store in the refrigerator. Drink before each meal, 40 ml of broth, with a glass of warm water. With this approach, you will be able to achieve many therapeutic effects in 1 month:

1. Stop the process of pancreatic cell death.
2. Normalize the production of enzymes.
3. Restore normal appetite and improve digestion.
4. Eliminate the need to regularly take enzyme medications that are harmful to the stomach.
5. Relieve inflammation and get rid of chronic pain in the left side.

It is important to understand that no herbal remedies will work without a therapeutic diet. To cure pancreatitis, you need at least 2 months to eat a diet, exclude sour, salty, peppery, fried food. It is also worth taking 1 cup of mineral water of carbonate composition in the morning and evening, using it to wash down the decoction.

Gastritis

If gastritis has passed into the chronic stage, the bacteria - Helicobacter - actively reproduce in the body. This is a type of pathogenic microorganisms that affect the mucous membrane of the stomach and intestines. Oregano helps to destroy them, thus eliminating the cause of gastritis. You need to drink the infusion for 3 weeks, strictly before each meal for 30 ml. Infusion can be prepared at once for several days - brew 250 ml of boiling water 1 tablespoon of the herb and keep under a lid for 2 hours.

With gastritis with reduced acidity, the use of oregano is particularly effective, but in this case it is better to combine it with other herbs that stimulate the production of gastric juice. Effective is recognized a collection of three herbs - mother-oil-bloodwort, tussock, oregano. Take all the herbs in equal parts, brew 1 tablespoon collection of 700 ml of water and drink 200 ml three times a day. The course of treatment should not be longer than 14 days. To achieve a stable remission, you should periodically carry out this treatment - no more than 1 time every 3 months.

For the intestines.

Colitis, bowel obstruction, constipation, bloating and problems with microflora are diseases and conditions in which oregano is used. A vodka tincture can be taken to treat the intestines - 1 teaspoon 2 times a day, before meals. Drink the tincture should be diluted - with boiled water. The course of treatment should not exceed 1 week. With problems with microflora and removed appendix, you can use a pinch of dried herb 2-3 times a day. It helps to restore the balance of microflora in the intestines.

For the liver

Oregano common has hepatoprotective properties, contains substances that cleanse the liver and restore its cells. To clean the liver, you can use oregano decoction - boil 2 tablespoons of the herb in low-fat milk (500 ml), infuse for 2 hours, then strain and take 50 ml for half an hour before a meal.

You can use oregano in its pure form for a quick and effective cleaning of the liver. It is necessary to brew a tea from this plant, add to it, after cooling, fresh lemon juice and drink before meals, 30-40 minutes. This tea can stimulate the production of bile and the removal of toxins from the liver. The only drawback of this plant is that it gives a pronounced laxative effect, as well as slightly increases the appetite.

Another way to use oregano to cleanse the liver is to prepare a collection. Need to take 2 parts oregano, 2 parts rose hips and 1 part artichoke fruits. Pour 50 g of the mixture in 2 liters of cold water, boil over low heat for 40 minutes to evaporate 500-600 ml of liquid. The resulting remedy to cool and strain, and then take 50 ml 3 times a day.

With cholecystitis.

Oregano stimulates the production of bile, and also tones the walls of the gallbladder, restoring their motor function. With chronic cholecystitis, if there is no blockage of the ducts, you can use this recipe:

• To brew 400 ml of boiling water with a mixture of oregano and yarrow;
• Infuse for 3 hours;
• Drink 1 tablespoon before each meal.

You need during treatment (not less than 14 days) to stick to a diet and eat small portions. Without observing this condition, the result will not be pronounced.

Cystitis

Inflammation of the gallbladder is treated with a water infusion or tea from oregano. You need to take an infusion of 100 ml 4-5 times a day, tea - 3-4 times. You can also use a strong decoction of this plant for baths to eliminate pain and burning.

The ability of the herb to stop inflammatory processes in the organs of the urinary system has long been noticed by pharmacists. They began to use this plant for the manufacture of a popular drug called "Urolesan". He proved himself well in the treatment of cystitis in men and women, recognized as one of the most effective and safe natural remedies. As part of this drug, oregano is combined with such herbs:

• peppermint;
• castor oil;
• hops;
• wild carrot.

Extracts from the plants are present in high concentrations, so even a small dose of the drug can relieve spasms, inflammation, pain, and block the reproduction of pathogens.

In prostatitis

In the treatment of prostatitis, you should not rely only on oregano. This herb can only be an aid, because to achieve results it is necessary to take a long time (not less than 45-60 days), and for men such a long reception is prohibited, it has a negative effect on potency. It is better to use oregano only in the acute period to relieve inflammation and eliminate infection. For treatment, you can use a decoction or tincture. Decoction should be taken 40-50 ml 3 times a day, the evening portion can be larger. Tincture should also be drunk three times a day, but by 1 teaspoon.

With mastopathy

Oregano is part of many popular collections that are effective in mastitis. You can use it alone - take inside 100 ml of infusion 2 times a day, as well as making compresses before going to bed. You can also use in a collection - mix oregano with acacia flower, nettle, calendula and hop cones. Take all the herbs in equal quantities. 1 teaspoon of the collection to infuse a cup of steep boiling water, infuse and take 1 tablespoon 4-5 times daily, before meals. The remainder of the evening infusion used for a compress on the sore breasts.

With sore throat

To fight sore throat, an aqueous infusion of the plant or essential oil is used. To prepare an infusion to gargle, you need 1 tablespoon of the collection to brew 500 ml of boiling water, infuse for 30 minutes. Add 3 drops of essential oil in 250 ml of water, then use to gargle. Use oregano in this way can only be used in the absence of allergic reactions.

With menopause

Oregano common is the most popular herb of all existing "female" plants. You can use it to eliminate the unpleasant symptoms of menopause and maintain well-being during the natural restructuring of the body. To cope with women's problems during menopause, you need to brew three times a day tea from oregano and drink it with honey.

With coughs

It is also possible to cope with coughs with the help of oregano, but you should not use this herb in acute pneumonia - there are high risks, it is important to consult a doctor. There are three most popular cough recipes using oregano.

1. Brew in a thermos 1 tablespoon of the herb 0.5 liters of boiling water, soak for 3 hours and drink 100 ml every 3-4 hours.
2. When you have a dry cough, it is better to use a loose tea of oregano and mother-oil. The herbs mixed in a ratio of 2:1, that is, take 2/3 of oregano and 1 part of the mother-and-forester. The collection brewed just before taking, insist 3 minutes and drink with honey.
3. With a productive cough, add 5 drops of essential oil of oregano in any massage oil and rub the chest.

Infusions can also be used externally for compresses. It is important to remember that in compresses and rubbing you should avoid the area where the heart is located.

For epilepsy

Oregano normalizes the functioning of the nervous system, helps to avoid epilepsy attacks and restore a normal quality of life with this disease. It is necessary to use a decoction of the plant to minimize the frequency of seizures. The decoction should be prepared in a water bath, boiled in 2 liters of water 3 tablespoons of grass, drink 50 ml 2 times a day, before meals.

When hypertension

Hypertension is difficult to cure only one oregano. Therefore, you need to use all available techniques, and most importantly - adhere to a diet and minimize salt intake. When hypertension, you can not use an alcoholic tincture, because alcohol can provoke an attack and cancel the therapeutic effect. It is recommended to use oregano tea - brew ½ teaspoon of the herb, infuse for 5-6 minutes and drink with honey or with a little sugar syrup. You can make a tea of mint, lemon balm and oregano.

When bronchitis.

To get rid of bronchitis, you need to prepare a strong infusion for inhalation. Boil 500 ml of boiling water with 3 tablespoons of grass, insist 10-15 minutes and breathe steam. In addition, you should drink tea from oregano 3 times a day, and complement the treatment can be rubbed - vodka tincture or massage oil with 3-5 drops of essential oil of oregano.

Oncology

Tea from oregano and cold infusion of the herb are used as aids in the treatment of cancer. This remedy helps to achieve the following results:

• Detoxify after chemotherapy;
• Block the growth of cancerous tumors;
• Improve well-being and stimulate the immune system to fight the disease.

It is categorically forbidden to use the infusion for cancer of the blood and lymphatic system. For all other types of cancer, it is necessary to consult a doctor and find the best suitable dosage.

In case of allergies.

Infusion of the herb can serve as a powerful antiallergic agent. With allergic dermatitis, you can use it for baths or wipes. Eliminate rashes, diathesis on the skin is quite possible by taking the infusion internally. You need to brew a fresh remedy for each reception (1 teaspoon of herb per glass of boiling water), insist 30 minutes and drink 3 times a day. If the allergic reaction was provoked by other plants from the family of Ornithaceae, oregano is categorically forbidden to use, it can only aggravate the condition, because it contains a similar set of substances in its composition.

With asthma

If there is no allergic reaction, you can treat asthma with an infusion of oregano. You need to boil 1 liter of boiling water 2 tablespoons of inflorescences, take 50 ml 3-4 times a day for 2 weeks, and then take a break. To enhance the effect, you can also use aromatic oil blends, which include essential oil of oregano.

When depressed

The substances contained in this herb can stimulate the production of "happiness hormones", which is why oregano is effective in combating depression. To cope with a depressive disorder, you need to use the traditional infusion of the herb, drink it 50 ml 3 times a day. Prepare an infusion of 2 tablespoons of the collection and 500 ml of water, soak in a thermos for 5-6 hours.

For insomnia

Sleep disorders associated with stress, overstress and increased emotional stress can be eliminated with a tea or tincture made from oregano. The tea should be drunk for 10 days immediately before going to bed, 20-30 minutes. Tincture should be taken about 1 hour before going to sleep, 1 tablespoon. You can dilute the tincture with water. You can use a mixture of essential oils of oregano and lavender in an aroma lamp to make your sleep sound.

Against parasites

The consumption of food prepared with the addition of oregano is the best prevention against parasite infestation. This is why in many Mediterranean countries, where the main component of the diet is seafood, this spice is used in almost every recipe.

For eliminating intestinal parasites, you can also use this plant. There are two recipes that will help get rid of worms.

1. Take in equal parts of the goldenseal, oregano and St. John's wort. Brew 1 tablespoon 250 ml of boiling water. Divide into 2 drinks and drink in the morning and evening. Repeat for a week.
2. Take dried oregano powder, grind with honey in a ratio of 1:1, take on an empty stomach 1 tablespoon (without the slide), drinking plenty of warm water.

Dried herbs can be taken internally only if there are no chronic diseases of the stomach and intestines, otherwise there may be an attack or exacerbation.

Types of healing compositions

Depending on the diagnosis and the needs of the body, different types of healing remedies are prepared. You can do it yourself, using available components.

Infusion

An aqueous infusion of oregano is used to gargle the throat with angina, stomatitis, gingivitis, from coughs with bronchitis and from other inflammatory diseases. It is also used to treat wounds, sores, abrasions, compresses, baths. From it you can prepare lotions, which are effective in the treatment of skin diseases. To prepare an infusion, you need to pour 1 tablespoon of dry grass 400 ml of boiling water, insist 20-30 minutes, strain and use. The infusion can be taken internally - 30-50 ml every 4 hours, preferably before a meal.

Tincture

Vodka tincture of oregano should be prepared in a bottle of dark glass. You need to take 2 tablespoons of raw materials, preferably use only dry inflorescences, pour 0.5 liters of vodka and cover. Tincture to stand in a dark place for 2 weeks, a maximum of 21 days. After that, strain it and pour it into a convenient container for use. Take vodka tincture directly before meals - 1 teaspoon.

Decoction

To prepare a decoction, you need to take 1 tablespoon of raw materials, pour boiling water and bring it on a water bath until tender (boil for 30 minutes). After that, remove the decoction, leave it under a closed lid until it cools, and then pour it through a sieve into a clean container. The maximum shelf life - 5 days.

Tea

Tea from oregano is prepared simply - you need to steep 1 teaspoon of the herb in boiling water and infuse for 5 minutes. This tea helps to calm the nervous system, relax, strengthen the immune system, normalize digestion and stimulate lactation. You can simply add the dried collection to green or black tea in a 1:1 ratio, or prepare a drink of oregano, mint leaves or raspberry. Take 1 teaspoon each of herbs, pour 1 liter of boiling water and soak for 15-20 minutes, strain and drink as normal tea, but no more than 2-3 cups a day.

Oil of oregano: properties and uses

The essential oil of oregano has the same properties as other therapeutic compositions, but contains the active components in the highest concentration. It can be used to fight skin infections, for gastrointestinal diseases, it is excellent for colds and coughs. In addition, oregano essential oil is widely used in cosmetology as a rejuvenating agent, it is added to shampoos, creams, balms. This oil can help with toothache and oral inflammation, eliminates runny nose and treats ear ailments.

Oil of oregano can cure such ailments:

• gastric diseases - gastritis, ulcers;
• Fungal infections of the skin and mucous membranes;
• Diseases of the gallbladder, cholelithiasis, congestion, cholecystitis;
• parasitic infections of the gastrointestinal tract;
• Infectious bacterial and viral respiratory diseases;
• food poisoning, diarrhea and intoxication;
• otitis of various types and etiologies;
• bronchial asthma and allergic reactions;
• skin diseases (fungus, acne, warts, psoriasis, eczema);
• nervous disorders;
• diseases of the genitourinary system.

Oregano is an excellent antidepressant and is successfully used not only in phytotherapy, but also in aromatherapy. For therapeutic purposes, essential oil is used for depression and nervous system disorders. You can take a few drops of oil and add it to an aroma lamp. Inhaling the vapors can lead to relief of symptoms of chronic stress, relieve headaches, restore energy and improve psychological well-being.

Cosmetic applications

To care for hair and skin, you can also use oregano. Natural cosmetics made from this plant has these properties:

• normalizes the secretion of skin glands;
• Restores skin elasticity;
• eliminates rashes and inflammation;
• Improves complexion;
• rejuvenates;
• whitens.

For hair oregano is useful because it strengthens them, stimulates their growth, improves blood circulation, due to which the hair follicles receive increased nutrition. There are especially popular recipes that can be used at home.

1. With acne, it is good to use a water infusion for washing from 2 tablespoons of grass and 500 ml of water, insist better in a thermos, so you can make the remedy more concentrated.
2. Weakened, brittle hair should be rinsed with a water infusion, prepared according to the same recipe. You can simplify the task - take boiled water and add 5 drops of essential oil.
3. To lighten the skin and even out skin tone, it is better to use an oil extract. Pour 2 tablespoons of herb in 100 ml of vegetable oil, leave for a day at room temperature and strain. Use for an evening massage.
4. To stop hair loss, you need to use masks with the addition of essential oil of oregano. Effective recipe: Mix in a clean container 1 tablespoon of burdock and castor oil, add 5 drops of essential oil of oregano, rub into the hair roots and leave for 1 hour, wash with shampoo.
5. If the skin appeared inflamed pimples, you can wipe them with hydrogen peroxide and rub oregano essential oil at bedtime. By the morning of the pimples will be left only subtle reddish traces.
6. For those who suffer from excessive sweating, there is also a recipe with oregano. You can regularly in the morning to rub the armpits with ice cubes, prepared on the basis of the infusion of the herb. This will help to cope with increased sweating. The herb contains antimicrobial components that eliminate the smell of sweat.
7. It is good to use water with the addition of essential oil of the herb or infusion of oregano in order to make baths. Such a remedy strengthens nails, nourishes the skin, eliminates pigmentation.

Oregano can cause allergies, so you should test the product before use. Essential oil should not be used undiluted - it can irritate the skin and even leave burns because of the high concentration of active ingredients.

Using oregano in cooking

Oil oregano is used in cooking, mostly in dried form as a spicy flavoring additive. This plant is versatile, it is combined with meat and fish dishes, used in the preparation of side dishes, snacks. In many countries this spice is used for cooking first courses, it is also added to various pickles and marinades. In Asian countries, for example, very popular recipes for cooking mushrooms and cucumbers with the addition of this spice. But there is a culture of using oregano in cooking in every country. Below are three original recipes using this spice.

Stuffed calamari with oregano

A versatile dish that will not leave anyone indifferent. It can be used for a weekday or holiday table.

Ingredients:

• 6 medium-sized squid carcasses;
• 1,5 cup boiled rice;
• 1.5 cups Mexican vegetable mix;
• olive oil;
• soy sauce;
• 2 to 3 tablespoons lemon juice;
• 1 teaspoon oregano.

You need to scald the carcasses, remove the skin. Mix 3 tablespoons of olive oil with the lemon juice and 1 teaspoon of soy sauce in a deep bowl. Add ½ teaspoon of oregano. Prepare the filling by mixing the vegetables and rice, adding a little soy sauce, olive oil and the remaining oregano. Stuff the calamari and send it to the oven heated to 180 degrees for 25 minutes, previously covered with foil.

Oregano drink

Therapeutic and refreshing drink will help not only quench thirst, but also clean blood vessels, strengthen immunity, increase vitality. To prepare it is very simple. It is necessary to take 2 liters of purified water, boil and cool to 70 degrees. In a clean container to put a couple of sprigs of fresh oregano, a couple of sprouts of red basil and lemon, cut into 4 parts. All this steeped a little cold boiling water, cover and infuse for 2 hours. Drink in unlimited quantities instead of water, adding honey or sugar.

Salad

You can make a delicious salad with canned green beans, eggs, green onions, pickled salmon and oregano. Boil the eggs, cut into cubes and put them in a bowl, add the green beans, chopped onions and salmon. Prepare the dressing separately - mix olive oil (2 spoons), a pinch of mustard, ½ teaspoon oregano and 20 ml of lemon juice. Dress the salad and serve, garnished with greens.

Contraindications for use

Oregano is not used in the treatment by all people, it can cause harm to health. In order not to harm the body, you need to know in which cases it is better to avoid this spicy aromatic herb.

1. Means from oregano are not suitable for the treatment of infants and children under 12 years of age.
2. Pregnant women are also forbidden to use oregano externally and internally. The essential oil of the plant leads to stimulation of smooth muscles and changes the hormonal background, which may contribute to premature birth.
3. When breastfeeding, it is advisable to refrain from using this herb, as there is a risk of diarrhea in the baby or a severe allergic reaction.
4. If a person has already been diagnosed with an allergy to other plants from the Juniper family (mint, basil, lavender, sage), you should give up oregano. There is a 90% chance of an allergic reaction.

Too prolonged use of oregano in the diet or for medicinal purposes can provoke an upset stomach. Also, do not use oregano oil for too long, as this can lead to menstrual irregularities in women and to problems with potency in men.

Interesting facts about oregano

Oregano is one of the most common and popular spices around the world. This herb is known in almost every country in the world, which is not surprising. Below are facts about this plant that are worthy of interest.

1. In Germany, oregano is primarily considered a major additive to sausages. There it is called "sausage herb".
2. This plant is considered one of the most potent sources of ascorbic acid of all members of the Leafy Orchid family.
3. Scientists are studying the composition of oregano, because there is speculation that it can be used to make antibiotics that act on those bacteria that are not sensitive to other pharmaceuticals.
4. Oregano was often used in the old days in the preparation of hop drinks. It was also used in the preparation of kvass in Rus.
5. Oregano is one of the few plants that are massively used in traditional medicine. It is added to coughing sets, and is also used in popular preparations for the treatment of cystitis.
6. Oregano is massively used in the manufacture of biologically active supplements that help normalize blood pressure, improve the quality of life in diabetes.
7. The essential oil of oregano is actively used by famous Korean cosmetics brands. This product is mainly used in cosmetics series for problematic and inflammation-prone skin.
8. Oregano helps you lose weight. If you take regularly before going to bed tea from this plant, you can many times increase the effect of any diet and exercise, while saturating the body with missing vitamins and trace elements.
9. For a long time, oregano was considered a weed, it was fought by farmers in the Mediterranean countries, where it is particularly common.
10. Oregano can be used in the preparation of marinades for kebabs of fatty meats - it helps the body many times faster to digest heavy food.

oregano is a natural remedy, an excellent spice and an effective ingredient in home cosmetics. Knowing the features of the healing potential of this plant, you can use it with health and beauty benefits.

Photo of oregano (oregano)