Oregano Tea

Oregano tea, with its strong flavor and fairly bitter taste, is an herbal drink prepared from the fresh or dried leaves of oregano. This beverage contains many biologically active compounds, including polyphenols, flavonoids, and other phytonutrients, which make it an effective remedy for several ailments.

Oregano Tea

Oregano Tea

History and origin

The famous Greek physician Hippocrates recommended the use of oregano for its antiseptic properties as well as for the treatment of respiratory and stomach disorders. It was popularly believed in Greece that Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, created oregano to symbolize joy and happiness. Thus, it was considerably used in marriage ceremonies by the Greeks, as also in funerals to bring peace to the soul. Not just the Greeks, but the Romans too were known for its extensive usage. In Austria, oregano tea was consumed to treat respiratory, nervous, and gastrointestinal disorders.

Oregano tea benefits: what is it good for

Heart health

Since oregano is rich in potassium, one of the primary constituents of body fluids, its consumption is useful for the maintenance of a steady blood pressure and heart rate. Clinical studies have confirmed its efficacy in reducing the bad or LDL cholesterol and at the same time increasing good or HDL cholesterol. Therefore, regularly drinking a cup of oregano tea reduces the chances of strokes and other cardiovascular diseases.

Treatment of flu

The essential oils in oregano along with its antiviral property, help in lessening some of the common symptoms of flu including cough, fever, sore throat, vomiting, and headache. The presence of powerful antioxidants and flavonoids, as well as the antiseptic properties, make it a possible cure for common cold.

Fights intestinal parasites

Its antiparasitic properties owing to the presence of antimicrobial compounds like carvacrol and thymol help in getting rid of harmful parasites of the intestines. This decreases the risks for many disorders of the gastrointestinal tract.

Oregano Tea Pictures

Pictures of Oregano Tea

For weight loss

Recent animal studies have shown that the active components in oregano, including carvacrol helps to dissolve fat buildup in the body and checks obesity caused by an unhealthy diet. It does not have constituent cholesterol and is thus useful for maintaining a healthy weight.

Eases menstrual cramps

Because of its pain relieving effects, the infusion works as a natural remedy for menstrual cramps. Having it regularly also aids in regulating the menstrual cycle.

For sinus infection

Scientific research has shown that treatment of sinusitis can improve the symptoms of asthma. As a natural antihistamine, oregano tea with its anti-inflammatory property can be consumed on a regular basis to clear congestion of nasal passages, as well as to relieve headaches, and inflammation of sinuses caused by sinusitis. This in turn, helps to provide relief from the symptoms of respiratory conditions like asthma and bronchitis.

Cancer preventive properties

According to some research studies, the antioxidant content in oregano is useful for controlling the growth of cancerous cells and for improving the symptoms of colon cancer.

Oregano Tea Photos

Oregano Leaves

Indigestion and bloating

Since it promotes stomach acid production, its intake is beneficial for the treatment of indigestion and heartburn, as well as for reducing the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.

How to make oregano tea

• Place 2-3 teaspoons of fresh or dried leaves of oregano in a teapot
• Fill it with 8-10 ounce of boiling water
• Steep the mixture for 5-10 min
• Strain it
• Add some sweetening agent like honey or sugar to boost its taste

Safety and precautions

Side effects

Its consumption is considered safe, even though some side effects like mild allergic reactions and upset stomach have been reported in a few people. Those with bleeding disorders should avoid taking this tea since it might aggravate the condition. It may also lower blood glucose levels significantly, and thus diabetic patients should have it cautiously.

During pregnancy

Its intake should be avoided by expecting women as it might induce preterm labor or miscarriage. Also, there is a lack of information about its safety for nursing mothers.

Oregano Tea Images

Where to buy

Apart from ordering oregano leaves packed in tea bags online, you can purchase them from the local groceries and herbal tea stores.