Oregano flakes: Health Benefits, Uses and Important Facts

Oregano flakes is one ingredient you almost certainly choose if you order an Italian dish because you enjoy it on pizza and you love to mix it in with pasta. Oregano flakes have a potent flavour that adds warmth and a touch of delicate sweetness to your food.

The herb oregano is a member of the Lamiaceae, or mint, family. For thousands of years, people have used it to flavour food and alleviate illnesses. 

Oregano was connected with joy and happiness by the Greeks and Romans. The Greek words "oros," which means mountain, and "ganos," which means joy, are the source of the name.

Oregano comes in a variety of forms. The most typical kind is Oregano vulgare, sometimes referred to as wild marjoram and Spanish thyme.

Properties of oregano flakes:

The herb gets its flavour and aroma from the antioxidants thymol, carvacrol, limonene, terpinene, ocimene, and caryophyllene. They additionally support the therapeutic effects of oregano oil. When used in the diet, oregano also contains additional antioxidants.

Cooking with dried oregano or oregano flakes:

Since dried herbs are more concentrated and potent, they will give food a stronger flavour. A general rule of thumb among chefs is to quadruple the quantity when using fresh herbs or spices in place of dried ones. As a result, you can use one tablespoon of fresh oregano leaves in place of one teaspoon of dried oregano in your recipe.

However, dried oregano might not be as nutrient-dense as fresh oregano. Heat, which may be applied during industrial processing, destroys vitamin C while exposure to light destroys vitamin A.

Chlorophyll is one substance that will probably deteriorate regardless of how you dehydrate your oregano. And despite what you may have learnt in biology class, it now seems that humans may also engage in this wonderful process by consuming leafy greens and spending time in the sun. Because of this, fresh oregano can be generally healthier than dried.

Health benefits of Oregano flakes:

1. Lowers infection rates

Oregano's antibacterial qualities aid in the efficient treatment of illnesses. This herb's antioxidants shield your body from viral infections that can impact your skin, intestines, and other organs. Oregano also acts as a stimulant. More white blood cells are produced as a result, facilitating quick recovery from diseases.

2. Aids in digestion

It makes sense that Italian food does not upset your stomach unless you are lactose intolerant or have any food allergies. Oregano is an excellent source of fibre in spite of its modest size. Your stools will be more substantial as a result, which will regulate your bowel movements. Your digestive system must be properly moved through your body to remain in top condition.

3. Enhances bone health 

Oregano helps to improve the health of your bones. Your bones begin to degenerate as you get older. Iron, manganese, and calcium are some of the most crucial elements for your bones, and guess what? Oregano is a great source of all three. Therefore, if you want to prevent osteoporosis later in life, sprinkle a little more oregano on your food.

4. Treats common cold 

The cause of viral infections is free radical-induced oxidative damage. It causes toxins to build up in your body and raises your risk of getting the common cold. Here, oregano's antioxidants may be able to offer some assistance. You only need to drink a glass of water or juice with a few drops of oregano oil added to it three times every day for five days straight. You can lessen your common cold symptoms with its assistance.

5. Reduces the discomfort of menstrual cramps

Menstrual cramps can be as bad as the darkest nightmare for some women. Cramps in your legs, arms, back, thighs, and stomach are likely to occur. Ladies, let oregano be your saviour! Oregano has pain-relieving qualities, thus it can also aid you with menstrual cramps. All you have to do to relieve discomfort is chew on some oregano leaves. Oregano not only eases menstruation cramps but also eases the symptoms of menopause. Oregano, according to some research, may also delay the onset of menopause.

6. Detoxes body

Oregano, which is abundant in beneficial nutrients including calcium, fibre, vitamin K, iron, and manganese, can also aid in your body's detoxification process. According to studies, oregano facilitates the appropriate removal of toxins from your body and speeds up liver function.

7. Promotes good heart health

Oregano, which is a great source of omega 3 fatty acids, can also help your heart. This herb lowers inflammation, lowers your risk of cardiovascular disease, and aids in controlling your cholesterol levels.