Greek Oregano

OREGANO - Rigani - Origanum vulgare - Mint FamilyCommon names: wild oregano, wild marjoram, common marjoram, true oreganoHISTORY OF USE Oregano has been used since prehistoric times as both a food and medicinal plant. It is well-known in the culinary world; it adds distinct pungency and flavor to classic Greek and Italian dishes. Considered an old world mint, it is commonly used in cooking and medicine. The Greeks called oregano “joy of the mountain” and favored it for use in wedding wreaths, garlands, and on floors to release a sweet scent when walked upon. Hippocrates used oregano as an antiseptic, as well as a cure for stomach and respiratory ailments. Oregano is still used today in Greece as a remedy for sore throat. In Austrian folk medicine, oregano was used internally (as tea) or externally (as ointment) for treatment of disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, respiratory tract, and nervous system. The ancient Greeks considered it a sign of happiness when the plant was found gr