Present in the kitchen of every pizza lover, oregano has much more to offer than just taste. Did you know that herb tea has many benefits? It is known to be anti-inflammatory, help to regulate menstruation, and support the weight loss process.
It is a widely used condiment, especially its leaves, in Mediterranean cuisine and belongs to the group of “ Provencal herbs ”, such as sage, rosemary , fennel , lavender, etc.
The dehydrated version of oregano is the most used and easy to find. However, it is in the fresh herb that most of its benefits are concentrated. Check out some of them below:
Table of Contents
The main benefits of oregano tea
It is bactericidal
Oregano is capable of fighting bacteria that are very harmful to health, such as Escherichia coli, associated with cases of food poisoning.
The herb’s essential oil also fights Salmonella enterica , which causes salmonellosis, a disease that passes from chicken to human beings.
Boosts immunity
Oregano is a source of several vitamins. Among them: vitamin A, responsible for the regeneration of body tissues, and vitamin C , essential for immunity.
It is also a source of minerals such as zinc , iron, magnesium, calcium and potassium, which play very important roles in our body, such as healthy muscles, bones and teeth, metabolism and muscle contraction.
According to nutritionist Adriana Lima, “the seasoning is rich in omega 3 . This fatty acid is essential for the proper functioning of the brain, and also protects the body from cardiovascular diseases, in addition to preventing cancer”, he pointed out.
Controls Asthma
Asthma is a chronic disease, that is, it has no cure. However, it is possible that it is moderate. Oregano is one of the herbs that can help fight the disease.
For the treatment of asthma, as well as bronchitis, the use of essential oil for inhalations is recommended . Another natural possibility that helps to fight asthma is foods rich in m omega-3s .
Helps to lose weight
Adriana Lima explained that carvacrol, a substance present in the herb, can help with weight loss, because it reduces inflammation in fat cells.
“Tea also helps to reduce fluid retention, which causes a lot of swelling, especially in women and during high temperatures,” added the nutritionist.
Indirectly, oregano loses weight by prolonging the feeling of satiety.
Important! The consumption of tea should be part of a weight loss strategy, which should be combined with the practice of physical activity and healthy eating.
Regulates menstruation and relieves cramps
For many women, menstrual periods can be quite painful. Swelling, cramps, pain in the legs…
Oregano tea can help regulate the menstrual cycle, and even prevent early menopause. And because it is antispasmodic, that is, it relaxes the muscles, it can be used as a remedy during colic attacks .
Prevents premature aging
Free radicals are largely responsible for several diseases such as cancer and Alzheimer’s and are also protagonists in the aging process.
Oregano is rich in phenolic acid and flavonoids, which gives it its antioxidant action . Therefore, it acts as an aid in combating premature aging.
Lowers cholesterol
These same antioxidants fight cholesterol by decreasing the oxidation of LDL particles ( bad cholesterol ). This also reduces its ability to clog blood vessels.
Aids digestion
The herb stimulates the secretion of bile, which helps to digest fat from food. It’s also great for alleviating the discomfort of indigestion and gas.
Oregano tea: how to make it?
The fresh leaves of oregano are not so easy to find, but it is the most appropriate way to use the herb. So it’s worth looking a little more at fairs or larger markets.
It’s also a good idea to have a potted plant at home. So you can include in your routine the daily consumption of tea.
How to make oregano tea
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons of oregano leaves
- 1 cup (of tea) of water.
Preparation mode
After boiling the water, add the oregano leaves. Cover and let stand for 5 minutes. Consume without sweetening. The recommendation is to take 2-3 times a day.
Contraindications
Even though it is a 100% natural tea, its consumption requires some care. People with an allergy to oregano should not drink the tea. During pregnancy it is also recommended to avoid ingestion.
My name is Ellie Lauderdale, MD and I am USA based professional Nutritionist .
I am a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and board certified specialist in sports dietetics who is trained in integrative medicine. I have worked with hundreds of clients, from those suffering with chronic disease to professional and olympian athletes. My goal is to help optimize you from the inside so that you can feel, perform, and look your best on the outside.