Culinary uses
In Italian, Greek and Mexican cooking, oregano is often used dried in dishes with other strongly-flavoured ingredients like chilli, garlic, tomatoes, onions, olives and wine. Leaves and flower tops can be used in tea.
Properties
A pungent, aromatic, antiseptic warming herb that relaxes spasms, increases perspiration, benefits the digestion, stimulates the uterus and acts as a mild expectorant.
Medicinal uses
Internally for colds, influenza, minor feverish illnesses, indigestion and stomach upsets. Externally used in aromatherapy for bronchitis, asthma, arthritis and muscular pain. Oregano can also be used to treat head-lice.
How to grow
Oregano prefers well-drained to dry, neutral to alkaline soil, and it can be propagated from seed or by division in spring.
