What are the good gut benefits of oregano?
Oregano is a herb many of us may put on top of our food without knowing the true benefits that it may provide our bodies. Oregano comes from beautiful aromatic purple flowers and is part of the mint family. It has a strong flavor and brings warmth to dishes; it can be found fresh, dried, or as an oil and all are said to have significant health benefits. Oregano was beloved by the Greeks, who believed that oregano would bring someone happiness. Coincidentally, it actually might! The herb’s amazing antibacterial and antimicrobial properties have been found to improve one’s gut microbiome health. This is because it may affect the signaling across the brain-gut axis to promote a happy stomach and happier days.
Oregano is a good source of vitamin C, calcium, and vitamin A. All of these are important for a stronger immune system, aid in iron absorption to prevent anemia; as well as helping to prevent the immune system from becoming overactive and causing extra stress. In addition, 1 tablespoon of oregano contains 1.3 grams of fiber. Adding more oregano to your diet may help boost your digestive health by providing bulk to your stool making it easier to have a bowel movement as well as keeping the gut lining strong and less permeable from toxins.
Oregano essential oil has been found to fight pathogens, aid in digestion, and help to possibly prevent or clear out any infections such as yeast Candida. Many of the benefits that have been studied by researchers derive from oregano essential oil which provides a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties by reducing inflammation throughout the small intestine and colon, by promoting the integrity of the intestinal barrier. Oregano not only adds a special flavor to food, but it also has many #goodgut health benefits. Be sure to pick some up and add it to your spice rack for extra flavor and health benefits!
Ways to eat it
Sprinkle dried oregano on top of your food for extra flavor!
Fresh oregano can be added to pasta sauces, soups, salads, or sautés.
Fresh or dried oregano leaves can be steeped in tea.
Oregano oil is also very popular! If using essential oils, ensure you are using food grade oils prior to consumption!
Recipe: Balsamic Beets with Oregano
Ingredients (Makes 4 Servings):
1 bunch beets, trimmed (about 4 beets)
1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
2 pinches sea salt
1 pinch oregano
Directions:
Preheat oven to 400°F.
Gently scrub beets and pat dry.
Wrap in parchment paper or place in a ceramic plate with a cover, and roast until tender (about 1 hour).
Let cool, then peel and dice.
Place beets in a medium bowl, toss with balsamic vinegar, sea salt, and oregano!
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References
Bjagai, Y., Radovanovic, A., Steel, J., Stanley, D. (2021). Prolonged continual consumption of
oregano herb interferes with the action of steroid hormones and several drugs, and effects signaling across the brain-gut axis. Food and Function, 11. DOI: 10.3390/ani11020398
Cui, H., Zhang, C., Li, C., Lin, L. (2019). Antibacterial mechanism of oregano essential oil.
Industrial Crops and Products, 139,1:111498. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.indcrop.2019.111498
Levya-López et al. (2017). Essential oils of oregano: Biological activity beyond their
antimicrobial properties. Essential Oils: Chemistry and Bioactivity, 22(6). https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules22060989
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