What Does Oregano Do For The Body?
Heal Using Jamaican Chinese Thyme

What Does Oregano Do For The Body

By Venesha Johnson | Associate Writer

When you hear the of oregano, your first thought is probably that it is a staple in your kitchen, right? Sprinkled on pizza or tossed into pasta sauces. But in Jamaica, this unassuming herb is so much more than just a spice, it’s a natural healing remedy. Recently, Wellesley had an eye-opening conversation with Jade, who shared some unbelievable benefits of this herb we casually call Jamaican French Thyme, Cuban Oregano, Mexican Mint, Spanish Thyme or Jamaican Chinese thyme.

Why Oregano is a Must-Have Herb

Whether it’s brewed into tea, chewed raw, or taken as capsules, oregano has an impressive lineup of benefits. Here are some ways this herb can work wonders for your health:

Packed with Antioxidants

Oregano is loaded with antioxidants compounds that fight free radicals, and unstable molecules that can damage cells. The buildup of free radicals in the body has been linked to chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease. Antioxidants in oregano, particularly carvacrol and thymol, help neutralize these free radicals, preventing cell damage and reducing the risk of illness.

Oregano essential oil is especially potent and can be combined with other antioxidant-rich foods like fruits and vegetables to provide a significant boost to overall health. 

Fights Harmful Bacteria

Oregano has potent antibacterial properties that make it a natural defender against harmful bacteria. Studies have shown that oregano essential oil can inhibit the growth of bacteria such as Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which are common causes of infections.

What’s even more impressive is oregano’s ability to combat multiple strains of bacteria. One study found it effective against 23 different species, making it one of the most efficient antibacterial essential oils. These properties make it an excellent addition to your natural health toolkit.

May Have Anti-Cancer Properties

One of oregano’s most exciting benefits is its potential role in cancer prevention. The herb’s antioxidants not only fight free radicals but also show promise in targeting cancer cells.

Test-tube studies have demonstrated that oregano extract can slow the growth of colon cancer cells and even help kill them. The compound carvacrol has been specifically highlighted for its ability to suppress cancer cell growth. While more research is needed to confirm these effects in humans, these early findings are incredibly promising.

Reduces Viral Activity

Oregano doesn’t just stop at bacteria, it’s also been shown to have antiviral properties. Research indicates that the compounds carvacrol and thymol can inactivate viruses such as norovirus and herpes simplex. In some studies, these compounds significantly reduced viral activity within hours, suggesting oregano’s potential as a natural antiviral remedy.

While more research is needed to understand how oregano fights viruses in humans, its use as an immune booster is already well-documented.

Natural Anti-Inflammatory

Chronic inflammation is a major contributor to diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and autoimmune conditions. Oregano, with its rich antioxidant profile and anti-inflammatory compounds like carvacrol, can help reduce inflammation.

Animal studies have shown that oregano essential oil can lower swelling and decrease markers of inflammation, especially in conditions like colitis. While human studies are needed, these findings highlight oregano’s potential as a natural anti-inflammatory agent.

Other Benefits:

• Migraine Relief: Oregano keeps migraines at bay. Its soothing properties help ease tension and discomfort.  
• Flu Fighter: Feeling under the weather? Oregano acts as a natural immune booster, especially when used as oregano oil.  
• Improved Sleep: A cup of oregano tea before bed can help calm your nerves and promote better sleep.  
• Better Digestion: Say goodbye to bloating and indigestion. Oregano supports healthy digestion and keeps your gut happy.  
• Congestion Relief: Struggling to breathe? Oregano is a natural expectorant, helping to clear up chest congestion and ease coughs.  
• Menstrual Cramps & Mood Swings: Ladies, oregano can be your best friend during that time of the month, easing cramps and balancing mood swings.  

How We Use Oregano

This versatile herb has been in our kitchens and used as a home remedy for quite some time. Here are some popular ways to use it:  

• In Cooking: Add it to rice, meats, stews, or soups, just like you would thyme or scallion. Its earthy, slightly minty flavour pairs perfectly with a variety of dishes.  
• Chewing the Leaves: Feeling bloated or stuffed up? Just chew on a leaf or two—it’s a quick and effective remedy.  
• Brewing Tea: Oregano tea is a Jamaican favourite for easing digestion, fighting the flu, and even helping with sleep.  
• Oregano Capsules: If you prefer convenience, capsules are an excellent way to get all the benefits without the strong taste.  

Oregano Oil: The Ultimate Immune Booster

Oregano oil ready-to-go remedy that we should all keep handy. With its high concentration of carvacrol and thymol, it’s one of the most potent immune boosters you’ll find. A drop or two can help fight off infections and keep you feeling strong.

A Miraculous Herb

During Wellesley’s interview, Jade shared a life-changing testimony of how oregano saved a man’s life. From its ability to fight infections to its immune-boosting properties, oregano truly deserves a spot in your daily routine.

Oregano may be simple, but its benefits are extraordinary. Whether you’re fighting cold, soothing cramps, or just spicing up your cooking, this herb deserves a special spot in your kitchen and your life.

If you are looking to start your natural healing journey, this article -  101 Jamaican Medicinal Herbs and our ebook,  101 Amazing Wellness Secrets,  are great places to start. 

Sharing IS Caring! Please help me get the message out by sharing this article with your friends on social media (links below). Thnx ;-)

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References & Sources For What Does Oregano Do For The Body?

1. Rd, R. a. M. (2017, October 27). 6 Science-Based Health Benefits of Oregano. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/6-oregano-benefits

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