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Home / Spices for Health / Super Spices / Oregano

Of all the dried herbs, oregano has one of the highest antioxidant levels. Just one teaspoon of dried oregano leaves has as many antioxidants as three ounces of almonds and ½ cup of chopped asparagus.

Rosmarinic acid is an active compound in oregano that appears to have strong antioxidant activity. Many of the studies on oregano (literally translated, "joy of the mountain") have focused on the antimicrobial properties that help fight the growth of bacteria and parasites. Researchers are continuing to explore the use of oregano in various food applications to inhibit bacterial growth.

Greek Turkey Burgers with Spiced Yogurt Sauce

Enjoy the bold Greek flavors in these easy and healthful turkey burgers. The yogurt topping is delicious with grilled fish, too.

Pictured:  Greek Turkey Burgers with Spiced Yogurt Sauce

Broccoli and Potato Frittata

With a triple hit of antioxidants from oregano, rosemary and thyme, this hearty and healthy frittata makes a welcome weekend breakfast or busy weeknight supper. Leave the potatoes unpeeled to reap the benefits of the vitamins and fiber contained in the skins.

Pictured:  Broccoli and Potato Frittata
Sources:

• Chun SS, Vattem DA, Lin YT, Shetty K. Phenolic antioxidants from clonal oregano (origanum vulgare) with antimicrobial activity again helicobacter pylori. Process Biochemistry. 2005;40:809-816.

• Hersch-Martínez P, Leaños-Miranda BE, Solórzano-Santos F. Antibacterial effects of commercial essential oils over locally prevalent pathogenic strains in Mexico. Fitoterapia. 2005;76:453-457.

• Nurmi A, Mursu J, Nurmi T, Nyyssönen K, Alfthan G, Hiltunen R, Kaikkonen J, Salonen JT, Voutilainen S. Consumption of juice fortified with oregano extract markedly increases excretion of phenolic acids but lacks short- and long-term effects on lipid peroxidation in healthy nonsmoking men. Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry. 2006;54:5790-5796.

• Nurmi A, Nurmi T, Mursu J, Hiltunen R, Voutilainen S. Ingestion of oregano extract increases excretion of urinary phenolic metabolites in humans. Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry. 2006;54:6916-6923.



    Here are some easy ways you can enjoy more antioxidant-rich oregano:

    • For a twist on the typical grilled cheese, prepare sandwich with sliced mozzarella cheese, sliced tomato and ¼ teaspoon Oregano Leaves.
    • Sprinkle sautéed cherry or grape tomatoes with Oregano Leaves, Garlic Powder, salt and pepper to taste.
    • Perk up frozen pizza by sprinkling Oregano Leaves over pizza right from the oven.
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