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Oregano Benefits (According to Ayurveda)
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  • SERVING SIZE: 1/8 tsp
  • FAMILY: Lamiaceae
  • SPECIES: Origanum vulgare
  • EAT IN: SPRING

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Is Oregano Good for My Ayurvedic Diet?

Find out by taking this free, easy quiz. You'll learn your body type, and whether 'Oregano' is a good fit. Complete the basic quiz in 1 minute, or go deeper with additional quizzes at your own leisure to learn more about your body.

Take the Quiz

AYURVEDA'S GUIDE TO VITALITY & WHOLESOME NOURISHMENT

Your Ayurvedic diet is tailored to your individual body and your specific imbalances. With an Ayurvedic diet you feel joy and satisfaction because what you are eating truly nourishes and balances you. Disease results from diets and lifestyles that are incompatible with your nature. By eating a personalized diet matched to your body, you experience optimal health. See How it Works.

Metabolic Nature of Oregano

See a complete list of all biocharacteristics.

METABOLIC NATURE

Metabolic Nature

Ayurveda assesses metabolic imbalances through 20 main biocharacteristics (gunas). Aggravating them weakens your body and causes imbalance. By knowing which biocharacteristics are habitually imbalanced in your body, you will be able to identify and correct metabolic imbalances before you get sick. Every biocharacteristic has an opposite which balances it (i.e. hot balances cold). You restore balance by favoring diet and lifestyle choices that increase the opposite biocharacteristic.

Find Out More

DRY

ABOUT DRY BIOCHARACTERISTIC

Dry is identified by lack of moisture, lack of fat, or anything that causes diuresis.

LEARN MORE ABOUT DRY

HOT

ABOUT HOT BIOCHARACTERISTIC

Hot is identified by increased body temperature, metabolism, or inflammation.

LEARN MORE ABOUT HOT

DOSHAS

The Three Doshas / Body Types

Ayurveda is a metabolic theory of medicine that explains individual health, tendencies, and disease patterns through the concept of doshas, which can be understood as your metabolic patterns and tendencies.

Each dosha reflects a distinct metabolic nature and describes strengths & weaknesses in bodily function, and how these affect energy levels, digestion, susceptibility to disease, and many other tendencies.

Your metabolic nature not only affects your physical characteristics, but also influences your mental thought patterns, confidence, and enthusiasm.

Ayurveda balances these metabolic strengths & weaknesses to support your body's vitality and prevent recurrent disease cycles. This support is a critical aid, especially in chronic or incurable disease conditions.

The 3 metabolic body types (doshas), are Catabolic (Vata), Metabolic (Pitta), and Anabolic (Kapha).

Through dosha, Ayurveda empowers people to identify metabolic imbalances early, break repetitive patterns of disease, and cultivate habits that support long-term vitality and well-being.

Ultimately, these metabolic patterns also provide a framework for understanding yourself, including body, mind, and spiritual tendencies.

Find Out More

PACIFIES
Kapha pacifying Vata pacifying
AGGRAVATES
Pitta aggravating

GREEK MEDICINE / TEMPERAMENTS

The Four Temperaments / Humors

Ayurveda & Greek Medicine were the dominant form of medicine along the Silk Road from England to China and South Asia. They work by assessing your metabolic type, patterns, and nature. Greek medicine recognizes 4 metabolic temperaments, Melancholic, Choleric, Sanguine, and Phlegmatic.

Find Out More

PACIFIES
MELANCHOLIC

ABOUT MELANCHOLIC BIOCHARACTERISTIC

Cold and dry with a slow, variable or erratic metabolism. Colicky, tense. Withdrawn, pensive, anxious, and hesitant. Analytical, intelligent, detail oriented and creative. Prone to ojas depletion, dehydration, an overactive nervous system, and depression.

LEARN MORE ABOUT MELANCHOLIC

PHLEGMATIC

ABOUT PHLEGMATIC BIOCHARACTERISTIC

Wet & cold. When out of balance becomes congested, stagnant, and overweight. Loving, trusting, and patient.

LEARN MORE ABOUT PHLEGMATIC

SANGUINE

ABOUT SANGUINE BIOCHARACTERISTIC

Hot and oily with a moderate metabolism and a well nourished body. Vigorous, vivacious, outgoing and generous, and prone to impulsivity and self indulgence. Bullish and intense when out of balance.

LEARN MORE ABOUT SANGUINE

AGGRAVATES
CHOLERIC

ABOUT CHOLERIC BIOCHARACTERISTIC

Has a hot and dry metabolic nature. Enthusiastic, vibrant and bright. In excess burns up fluids and ojas, irritable. Corresponds to high bilirubin in the blood that irritates and heats up the body and liver.

LEARN MORE ABOUT CHOLERIC

Other

Subtaste:
Aromatic

AROMATIC

Herbs or spices with volatile essential oils that present strong aromas. Aromatic oils shock, refresh and numb tissue, with the end result of relaxing, opening and clearing stagnant fluids in tissues.

SEE ALL 'AROMATIC' FOODS / HERBS

Family:
Lamiaceae

Medicinal Benefits, Uses & Herbal Actions of Oregano
Experiences are Personal
Experiences vary according to the person and constitution. Individual results may vary. The list of herbal-actions below has not be approved by the FDA and should not be used to treat a medical condition.

(see all)
Digestion:
Carminative

STRONG CARMINATIVE

Stimulates the release of gas. Helpful for bloating or cramping abdominal pain. Propels food downward. Carminatives typically expel gas by relaxing the muscles of the intestines.

SEE ALL 'CARMINATIVE' FOODS / HERBS

,
Digestive

DIGESTIVE

Herbs that encourage healthy digestion.

SEE ALL 'DIGESTIVE' FOODS / HERBS

,
Spleen Tonic

SPLEEN-TONIC

An herb that strengthens spleen function by improving strength of the blood. Spleen tonics Builds agni, brighten the person's appearances & firms up tissues.

SEE ALL 'SPLEEN-TONIC' FOODS / HERBS

Cleanse & Detox:
Burns Toxins

BURNS-TOXINS

An herb that detoxifies by helping your body metabolize toxins, as opposed to eliminating them.

SEE ALL 'BURNS-TOXINS' FOODS / HERBS

,
Internal Detoxicant

INTERNAL-DETOXICANT

Liquefies, dissolves, decongests or dislodges internal stagnant toxins. Decongests the lymphatic system.

SEE ALL 'INTERNAL-DETOXICANT' FOODS / HERBS

Mind, Stress & Sleep:
Analgesic

ANALGESIC

Pain reliever, reduces pain without eliminating sensation. Also known as anodyne.

SEE ALL 'ANALGESIC' FOODS / HERBS

,
Nervine

NERVINE

Balances the nervous system. They can help with stress, memory, early alzheimer's, and even chronic pain. Often they are aromatic in nature.

SEE ALL 'NERVINE' FOODS / HERBS

Immune System:
Antimicrobial

STRONG ANTIMICROBIAL

An agent that kills microorganisms or inhibits their growth. Antimicrobial is an umbrella term that can be broken down into specific categories of target microorganism, such as anti-bacterials, fungals, and virals.

SEE ALL 'ANTIMICROBIAL' FOODS / HERBS

,
Antibacterial

ANTIBACTERIAL

Herbs that kill bacteria or slow their growth.

SEE ALL 'ANTIBACTERIAL' FOODS / HERBS

,
Antifungal

ANTIFUNGAL

Herbs that destroy fungus.

SEE ALL 'ANTIFUNGAL' FOODS / HERBS

Heart & Circulation:
Cardiac Stimulant

CARDIAC-STIMULANT

Herbs that increase the heart rate. Useful in cardiovascular health, blood stagnation, and subjective feeling of heaviness in the chest area.

SEE ALL 'CARDIAC-STIMULANT' FOODS / HERBS

,
Vasodilator

STRONG VASODILATOR

A vasodilator is an herb that widens the blood vessels by the relaxation of smooth muscle cells within the vessel walls, thereby increasing circulation systemically or to a local area.

SEE ALL 'VASODILATOR' FOODS / HERBS

Reproductive Health:
Anti Prolactin

ANTI-PROLACTIN

Reduces prolactin, a female hormone that suppresses the uterus, fertility, menstruation.

SEE ALL 'ANTI-PROLACTIN' FOODS / HERBS

Foods with a Similar Nature to Oregano

  • Cloves

    Cloves has these Actions in Common

    Burns-toxins, Digestive, Spleen-tonic, Antifungal, Cardiac-stimulant, Internal-detoxicant, Vasodilator, Analgesic, Antimicrobial, Carminative, Nervine, Antibacterial

    LEARN MORE

  • Mint

    Mint has these Actions in Common

    Carminative, Nervine, Antifungal, Digestive, Spleen-tonic, Analgesic, Burns-toxins, Internal-detoxicant, Vasodilator, Anti-prolactin

    LEARN MORE

  • Allspice

    Allspice has these Actions in Common

    Spleen-tonic, Analgesic, Cardiac-stimulant, Internal-detoxicant, Vasodilator, Antibacterial, Carminative, Nervine, Burns-toxins, Digestive

    LEARN MORE

  • Cinnamon

    Cinnamon has these Actions in Common

    Antifungal, Cardiac-stimulant, Internal-detoxicant, Analgesic, Antimicrobial, Carminative, Spleen-tonic, Antibacterial, Burns-toxins, Digestive

    LEARN MORE

  • Rosemary

    Rosemary has these Actions in Common

    Antimicrobial, Digestive, Spleen-tonic, Analgesic, Burns-toxins, Internal-detoxicant, Vasodilator, Antifungal, Cardiac-stimulant, Nervine

    LEARN MORE

  • Turmeric

    Turmeric has these Actions in Common

    Antifungal, Carminative, Spleen-tonic, Analgesic, Antimicrobial, Digestive, Vasodilator, Antibacterial, Burns-toxins, Internal-detoxicant

    LEARN MORE

  • Ajwain

    Ajwain has these Actions in Common

    Cardiac-stimulant, Internal-detoxicant, Vasodilator, Antibacterial, Carminative, Nervine, Burns-toxins, Digestive, Spleen-tonic

    LEARN MORE

  • Caraway Seeds

    Caraway Seeds has these Actions in Common

    Burns-toxins, Digestive, Vasodilator, Analgesic, Cardiac-stimulant, Internal-detoxicant, Antimicrobial, Carminative, Spleen-tonic

    LEARN MORE

  • Nigella (black cumin)

    Nigella (black cumin) has these Actions in Common

    Burns-toxins, Digestive, Spleen-tonic, Cardiac-stimulant, Internal-detoxicant, Vasodilator, Analgesic, Carminative, Nervine

    LEARN MORE

  • Thyme (fresh)

    Thyme (fresh) has these Actions in Common

    Antimicrobial, Internal-detoxicant, Vasodilator, Anti-prolactin, Burns-toxins, Nervine, Antibacterial, Digestive, Spleen-tonic

    LEARN MORE

Herbs & Supplements with a Similar Nature to Oregano

  • Thyme White Essential Oil - 1/3 oz

    Thyme White Essential Oil - 1/3 oz has these Actions in Common

    Antibacterial, Antimicrobial, Burns-toxins, Digestive, Internal-detoxicant, Nervine, Spleen-tonic, Anti-prolactin, Vasodilator

    LEARN MORE

  • Wild Ginger

    Wild Ginger has these Actions in Common

    Carminative, Digestive, Internal-detoxicant, Spleen-tonic, Vasodilator, Analgesic, Burns-toxins, Cardiac-stimulant

    LEARN MORE

  • Dong Quai

    Dong Quai has these Actions in Common

    Analgesic, Anti-prolactin, Cardiac-stimulant, Carminative, Digestive, Internal-detoxicant, Nervine, Vasodilator

    LEARN MORE

  • Holy Basil Leaf (Tulsi)

    Holy Basil Leaf (Tulsi) has these Actions in Common

    Nervine, Vasodilator, Antibacterial, Antifungal, Antimicrobial, Burns-toxins, Cardiac-stimulant, Internal-detoxicant

    LEARN MORE

  • Yogaraj Guggulu

    Yogaraj Guggulu has these Actions in Common

    Analgesic, Burns-toxins, Cardiac-stimulant, Carminative, Internal-detoxicant, Nervine, Vasodilator

    LEARN MORE

  • Yarrow

    Yarrow has these Actions in Common

    Internal-detoxicant, Vasodilator, Analgesic, Anti-prolactin, Antifungal, Antimicrobial, Carminative

    LEARN MORE

  • Ginkgo

    Ginkgo has these Actions in Common

    Analgesic, Antibacterial, Antifungal, Antimicrobial, Internal-detoxicant, Nervine, Vasodilator

    LEARN MORE

  • Trikatu

    Trikatu has these Actions in Common

    Burns-toxins, Cardiac-stimulant, Carminative, Digestive, Internal-detoxicant, Vasodilator

    LEARN MORE

  • Eucalyptus Essential Oil

    Eucalyptus Essential Oil has these Actions in Common

    Analgesic, Antibacterial, Antifungal, Antimicrobial, Nervine, Vasodilator

    LEARN MORE

  • Kushta

    Kushta has these Actions in Common

    Carminative, Digestive, Internal-detoxicant, Vasodilator, Antibacterial, Antimicrobial

    LEARN MORE

  • Hyssop Powder

    Hyssop Powder has these Actions in Common

    Vasodilator, Antimicrobial, Cardiac-stimulant, Carminative, Internal-detoxicant, Nervine

    LEARN MORE


Joyful Belly is a recognized college of biocharacteristics medicine.

how to use Oregano medicinally

The typical dosage of oregano leaves depends on the form in which they are used. Here are some general guidelines:

Fresh or Dried Oregano Leaves (Culinary Use):

Oregano Leaf Powder or Capsules:

TRADITIONALLY INDICATED FOR
THESE SYMPTOMS

Oregano may be beneficial for these symptoms. The suitability of any food for a condition is highly dependent on the individual. Please see your doctor before using this food to treat a medical condition.

CONTRAINDICATED FOR
THESE SYMPTOMS

Oregano may be harmful or contraindicated for these symptoms. Note this is not a complete list of all possible contraindications. Please see your doctor before using this food to treat a medical condition.

Oregano leaves, when used in their natural form (as opposed to concentrated oregano oil), are generally considered safe for most people when consumed in moderation, either as a culinary herb or in herbal teas. However, there are still some contraindications and precautions to be aware of:

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: While oregano in culinary amounts is typically considered safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding, oregano oil (which is much more concentrated) should be avoided during pregnancy due to its potential to stimulate uterine contractions.

Allergies: Individuals allergic to plants in the Lamiaceae family (which includes basil, mint, thyme, lavender, and sage) may also be allergic to oregano. Symptoms can include rashes, itching, or breathing difficulties.

Gastrointestinal Issues: Large quantities of oregano, particularly in concentrated forms, may cause digestive discomfort. People with conditions like gastritis, ulcers, or acid reflux may experience irritation in the stomach or digestive tract, leading to symptoms like heartburn or nausea.

Blood Thinning: Oregano contains compounds that may have mild blood-thinning effects. If you're taking anticoagulant medications (i.e. warfarin, aspirin), using in conjunction with oregano may increase the risk of bleeding.

Lowers Blood Sugar Levels: Oregano may lower blood sugar levels, so individuals with diabetes or those on diabetic medication should monitor their blood sugar levels carefully when consuming oregano.

Surgical Considerations: If you are planning surgery, it's advisable to stop using oregano at least two weeks before, as it may have a mild blood-thinning effect that could increase the risk of bleeding during and after surgery.

Herb Drug Interaction Risk

Here are some potential herb drug interactions with Oregano. Please see your health care provider for more information.

View other ingredients
for Spring

Oregano is recommended for Spring. Check out these other Spring foods here.
VIEW ALL SPRING FOODS MORE FOODS FOR VATA / KAPHA MAIN INGREDIENT PAGE

HOW DOES EATING AYURVEDICALLY MAKE YOU FEEL?

Eating Ayurvedically makes you feel nourished and energized. Food digests with ease when right for your body type (dosha). Healthy digestion is seen as the cornerstone of well-being in Ayurveda. Healthy digestion generally prevents illness. If you do get sick, a strong digestive fire reduces the severity of illness and increases your resilience. It also improves your mood. Once you begin eating Ayurvedically, you will feel refreshed, vital and strong.
CONTINUE READING

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About the Author

John Immel, the founder of Joyful Belly, teaches people how to have a healthy diet and lifestyle with Ayurveda. His approach to Ayurveda is clinical, yet exudes an ease which many find enjoyable and insightful. John also directs the Joyful Belly College of Ayurveda, offering professional clinical training in Ayurveda for over 15 years.

John's hobbies & specialties include advanced digestive disorders, medieval Catholic philosophy, & botany. He holds a bachelor's degree in mathematics from Harvard University. His wife and family of 7 kids live in Asheville, NC.

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