For many people, it is difficult to think of a common kitchen herb like oregano as a medical remedy, but oregano has been used as a drug and herbal remedy since the time of the ancient Greeks and Chinese. In China, doctors gave oregano to patients for relief of fever, vomiting, diarrhea, jaundice, and itchy skin, while the Greeks made compresses from the leaves to relieve sores and aching muscles.

The active constituents in oregano are thymol and carvacrol, which are also found in thyme. According to researchers, both of the compounds help loosen phlegm in the lungs and relieve spasms in the bronchial passages. Many commercial cough remedies, including cough drops and skin rubs such as Vicks VapoRub, contain thymol (a derivation of thyme).

Harvested during the flowering season and dried on the field or under a roof, oregano has bright purple flowers and an aromatic scent. Its medicinal value lies in the oil found in its leaves.

Suggested Benefits

Oregano is used as an herbal remedy for respiratory problems such as coughs and bronchitis, even though there is no scientific proof of its effectiveness on these conditions. According to folk, oregano has also been used to relieve bloating, gas, urinary tract problems, painful menstruation, rheumatoid arthritis, swollen glands, and lack of perspiration.

Preparation and Dosage

You can make an oregano tea by pouring 1 cup of boiling water over 1 heaping teaspoon of the dried herb, steeping for 10 minutes, and then straining. The tea may be sweetened with honey. To make an additive for the bath, pour 1 quart of water over 100 grams (31/3 ounces) of oregano, steep for 10 minutes, strain, and add to a full bathtub.

Sweetened oregano tea may be taken internally as needed. The unsweetened tea may be used as a gargle or mouthwash.