The sun is finally out today, after a long winter, and one of the first things I see poking through the ground is oregano. Oregano is in the mint family and spreads itself to fill the space it is planted in. It is an easy to grow perenial and has both culinary benefits and medicinal virtues. It is a well known ingredient in spaghetti and pizza sauce, but it also offers its antioxidant properties to those who take it. 

One of the ways I like to use oregano is for sinus issues. It has an affinity for the upper respiratory tract and helps with sinus infections, colds, coughs, asthma and fevers. Oregano has antibacterial, antiviral, and antibiotic properties making it something worth growing and collecting to be used during the cold and flu season. It can be used for headaches, sore throats and digestive issues as well. It can be beneficial in cases of colic and bloating due to gas in the GI tract. It will help expel the gas and relieve the cramping.

The use of oregano originated in Greece and was used to flavor meat or fish. They would combine it with olive oil and lemon juice and use it in many of their food dishes. Greeks also crowned newlyweds with wreaths of the herb and placed it on the graves of the deceased to help bring peace to their spirits. Medicinally they used oregano to aid in the treatment of stomach and respiratory ailments, for bacterial skin infections and wounds, to treat and prevent food poisoning, and in creams used for aching muscles.[1]

According to Jethro Kloss in his book Back to Eden, the extracted juice is excellent for deafness or pain and noise in the ears. Drop a few drops in the ear whenever necessary. The oil dropped in the hollow of an aching tooth will stop the pain. 

Early spring is a good time to get oregano started in the garden. It can be started indoors from seed and transplanted into the garden. You can also dig the root of an existing plant and replant it in another location. Be aware that it will spread, but it is worth having. Cut the stems throughout the growing season and dry them. The leaves can be stripped off the stem when dried. Several cuttings can be obtained each year. 

Oregano has many benefits and is easy to grow in and outdoors. Start some today to use in flavorful dishes and as medicine. 

Jo Francks, MH is a Master Herbalist working at the School of Natural Healing.