Health Benefits of Oregano

Most people associate oregano with Italian and Hispanic dishes, but actually, the herb originates in Northern Europe where it grows in the wild. Its scientific name is Origanum vulgare, and to the ancient Greeks it was considered the “joy of the mountain”. In fact, it gets its name from the Greek words oros (mountain) and ganos (joy).

Growing Oregano

Oregano is also known as Winter Sweet, Pot Marjoram, Mountain Mint or Winter Marjoram. It is a perennial plant that thrives in well irrigated loamy soil in Zones 5-10. Plant seeds in the early spring after the last frost, or grow them indoor in plugs then transplant the new plants 12-18 inches apart in the spring garden.

After four weeks, the plants will flower. It is best to harvest the leaves before when the plants reach 4-5 inches in height to avoid it returning to seed. Always clip the stem near the ground instead of plucking only the leaves. This stimulates more growth and also will allow the plant to more easily hang to dry.

To dry oregano, tie the branches together and hang upside down in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight for five or so days. Then, seal the dried plants in an airtight container. Oregano