So far, oregano is known as a food flavoring ingredient. Even though it's not only that, there's bethe various benefits of oregano that are a pity to miss. Oregano is believed to be able to overcome various complaints ranging from relieving colds and flu, to fighting free radicals that cause various chronic diseases.
The health benefits of oregano can be obtained thanks to the content of a number of nutrients in it. Although it has almost no calories, oregano is rich in vitamin K, vitamin A, vitamin E, calcium, magnesium, and potassium which are very good for the body.
These are the benefits of Oregano
There are various health benefits of oregano, including:
1. Relieves flu and cough
Although it needs further research, oregano is believed to help relieve colds and coughs. To get these benefits, you can drip oregano oil or add enough dried oregano to warm water. Inhale the steam or use this mixed water for bathing.
2. Lowering bad cholesterol levels
Clinical research shows that taking oregano after meals, for 3 months, can help reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) and increase good cholesterol (HDL) in people with high cholesterol.
In this study, total cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood were not affected. Even so, lowering LDL and increasing HDL can still have a good effect on heart health.
3. Helps fight infection-causing bacteria
Oregano contains compounds that can fight bacteria. A study shows that oregano essential oil can inhibit the growth of bacteria Escherichia coli andPseudomonas aeruginosa, which can cause infection. However, this benefit still needs to be investigated further.
4. Kills parasites in the intestines
Although it still needs to be studied further, research shows that consuming oregano oil for 6 weeks can help reduce parasites in the intestine, such as Blastocystis hominis, which can cause diarrhea.
5. Fight free radicals
In addition to being rich in vitamins and minerals, oregano essential oil is also rich in antioxidants that are useful for fighting free radicals that cause oxidative damage to body tissues. By eating foods that are high in antioxidants, the body will not be susceptible to chronic diseases, such as heart disease and cancer.
6. Help heal surgical wounds
A study has shown that an ointment containing oregano extract is more effective in healing surgical wounds than petroleum jelly. However, once again, the effectiveness of oregano in this regard still needs further research.
To get the benefits of oregano from numbers 2 to 5, you can mix oregano oil, oregano powder, or dried oregano leaves into cooking or food.
You can also make oregano tea for its antioxidant benefits. Meanwhile, to heal wounds, you can use oregano oil as a topical medication.
Oregano Side Effects
Oregano or oregano oil is generally safe for consumption in food. Even so, there are some side effects to watch out for from its use, namely:
Allergic reaction
For those who have an allergy to mint leaves, allergic reactions may also appear after consuming oregano. The reason is, this one herbal plant is still included in the mint leaf family.
Stomach feels uncomfortable
Some people can also feel discomfort in the stomach after consuming oregano.
skin irritation
The use of oregano oil on the skin can also trigger skin irritation. Skin irritation usually occurs when oregano oil is applied to the skin in a concentration of more than 1%.
Make sure you use oregano in moderation so that the side effects of oregano can be avoided. For those of you who are pregnant or suffering from certain diseases, it is better to consult a doctor before consuming or using oregano as an herbal medicine.
