Oregano is an aromatic spice that is extremely popular not only in Mediterranean cuisine. The herb has been used as a diverse remedy since the Middle Ages.
What is an oregano profile?
Oregano (Origanum vulgare) is an aromatic spice from the mint family. It has egg-shaped leaves and white, soft pink or purple flowers. The plant prefers warm, sunny locations and calcareous soils. Oregano is used as a spice in Mediterranean cuisine and has healing properties.
Key features and characteristics:
Name:
- Latin name: Origanum vulgare
- Common German names: Dorst, Dost, Wohlgemut
Appearance
- Plant family: Mint family
- Flowers: White, soft pink or violet, less often wine red. They sit on spherical panicles. Flowering time: From July to September.
- Leaves: Egg-shaped and tapering, in some species covered by a delicate down. Arranged oppositely.
- Fragrance: Leaves and flowers smell pleasantly spicy and aromatic. They attract many bees, butterflies and other insects.
- Fruits: The flowers develop into dark brown nuts about 1 millimeter in size that are spread by the wind.
- Growth height: Depending on the species, oregano grows to a height of 20 to 50 centimeters.
- Age: Perennial, perennial plant.
- Origin and distribution area: Oregano is native to the entire Mediterranean region. In the meantime, the conditionally hardy plants have also settled in warmer areas of Central Europe. You can find wild oregano growing in open, dry forests, along roadsides and in meadows.
- Site conditions: Oregano prefers warm and sunny places and calcareous soils. Here it grows ever denser as it gets older and forms large, fragrant cushions over the years.
Usage
Oregano is a typical spice in Mediterranean cuisine and gives dishes such as tomato sauce, pizza or moussaka their intense aroma. The leaves of the plant are heat-stable and can be cooked for a long time. The oregano flowers are also edible. When used fresh, they not only give salads a pretty look, but also enrich the dishes with their delicate, spicy aroma.
An infusion of crushed oregano leaves relieves respiratory diseases. It is also effective for abdominal cramps, flatulence, constipation and urinary tract diseases.
The tart essential oil of oregano is obtained through steam distillation and is considered one of the most effective natural substances for killing germs. It can be used internally as well as in the form of ointments, tinctures and in the steam inhaler.
Tips & Tricks
Add about 5 drops of oregano oil to the water bowl of the steam lamp. The aromatic scent promotes recovery after great physical or mental exertion. It also makes breathing easier during upper respiratory tract infections.
