Oregano is one of the widely used herbs in continental cuisine. It is a small shrub that grows around the year and can be used in both fresh and dry forms. Dried Oregano is used as a culinary herb in Italian and Mediterranean dishes to render a unique aroma and flavour. Dried Oregano In Hindi is called by the name “AjwainKeSookhePathe” and technically belongs to the Mint family. It has wonderful medicinal properties, making it one of the most popular home remedies in the world. In this article, we shall discuss more dried oregano benefits, preparation methods and side effects.
What Is Dried Oregano?
Dried oregano is made by drying the fresh Oregano leaves under the sun or in a dehydrator. This is one of the widely used herbs in many cuisines, as it renders a distinct and appealing aroma. Dried oregano is also called “Pizza Herb”, as it is a mandatory ingredient used in making Pizzas. Dried Oregano comes in leaves or powder form, depending on how you wish to use it.
Fresh Oregano Vs Dried Oregano:
Fresh Oregano although used in cooking, has less flavour compared to dried herbs. The smell and flavour of Dried Oregano are more potent than the fresh leaves, making it a popular choice. While fresh oregano is dark green in colour with small mint-type leaves, dried oregano is brown in colour with a rustling sound. Both versions are equally good when it comes to health benefits, but the strong flavour profile of Dried Oregano makes it a winner!
Is Dried Oregano Good For You?
Dried Oregano is popular for its taste-enhancing properties. It also offers numerous advantages to our health with the abundant amounts of anti-oxidants and anti-bacterial agents in it. Dried Oregano is also known to keep treat bone-related diseases like Osteoporosis and even prevent Cancers. A warm bowl of soup with dried oregano sprinkled on it can effectively treat cold, cough and sore throat.
Read: Is Oregano Safe for Pregnant Women?
Dried Oregano Nutrition Facts:
Let’s look into the nutritional breakup of 1 tbsp (approx. 4.2 gm) serving of Dried Oregano:
- Total Calories: 11
- Total Fat: 0.2 gm
- Cholesterol: 0
- Sodium: 1.1 mg
- Potassium: 53 mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 2.9 gm
- Dietary Fiber: 1.8 gm
- Proteins: 0.4 gm
- Vitamin A: 1.4 %
- Vitamin C: 0.2 %
- Calcium: 5.2 %
- Iron: 8.6 %
How To Dry Oregano?
There are several ways to dry fresh Oregano leaves like harvesting the naturally dry leaves, Using a Microwave. Let’s look into each process in detail:
Harvest Natural Leaves:
- Pull off leaves from the Oregano plants or cut the stems with scissors.
- Tie the stems with threads before preparation.
- Place them in plastic bags and store them in a dark, cool place.
- You will have dry oregano ready in a few days.
Microwave Oven:
- Cut the stems of Oregano bushes with scissors.
- Wash them thoroughly to make sure they are from insects and chemicals.
- Spread them evenly on a microwave tray.
- Set the oven on High mode for about 2-5 minutes depending on the capacity.
- Remove when done.
Storage Tip: Store the leaves in a closed glass container.
How To Use Dried Oregano?
Dried Oregano is used in the form of leaves or powder in food. The best way to use it for enhancing the flavour of your dish is by sprinkling a little bit of herb on soups and salads. If you are making herb-infused pasta or herby sauce for Pizza, add 1 tbsp of Oregano along with other ingredients and cook well.
How Much Dry Oregano Can I Take Daily?
The robust smell of dry oregano is obtained from many chemicals in it. The recommended dosage per day should not exceed 1 tbsp-2 tbsp, as anything more can leave a strong smell in your dish and of course, your mouth!
Read: How does Oregano Oil Benefits Health?
Dried Oregano Benefits For Skin, Hair & Health:
Check out the best of Dried Oregano benefits for health, hair and skin.
Dried Oregano Health Benefits:
Here we enlisted the top 9 dried oregano health benefits. Let’s have a look at them.
1. Helps in Enhancing Immunity:
Oregano contains vitamin A and iron and manganese which are perfect for the body and regular consumption of the oregano dried leaves benefits your body. It helps in achieving good health and boosts immunity. It strengthens the immune system and keeps away many health problems.
2. For Treating Menstrual Cramps:
The pain-relieving properties of oregano make it perfect for women who are having issues with menstrual cramps. Some dried oregano leaves can be chewed 3-4 times a day to get the outcomes. This should be done during the time of the cycle.
3. Aids Digestion:
Thymol and Carvacrol help in treating all the disorders of the stomach. One can include dried oregano leaves in the dishes or else add some oregano oil drops in a glass of water and consume it each day for maximum benefits on digestion.
4. To Flavor The Dishes:
One of the well-known and most common benefits of dried oregano comes in the form of flavouring food items. You must have definitely used oregano herbs on pizzas and plates of pasta. In Italian cuisines, it is one of the popular herbs that is used.
5. Herbal Medicine:
Dried oregano is also a herbal medicine that is used for digestion along with treating vomiting diarrhoea, morning sickness and even nausea. Dried oregano can be used to prepare the tea and make use in an ideal way.
6. Treat Fever:
Oregano oil extracted from dried oregano is one of the ways to bring down the body temperature and treat fever. One can also use the dried herb for the purpose. As for the oregano oil, 4-5 drops can be mixed in water and taken each day for the next 4-5 days till the problem subsides completely. Dried oregano can also be added to the soups to get the benefits along with improving the taste.
7. Provides Vitamin C:
Along with fresh oregano, even dried oregano provides good levels of vitamin C to the body. This helps as an anti-inflammatory agent for health as well as ensures proper resistance to various infections and diseases. Vitamin C is very much an important nutrient required by the body in good amounts.
8. For Cardiovascular Health:
The good levels of minerals in dried oregano along with potassium help in regulating heart functions, especially blood pressure and heart rate. Iron, on the other hand, helps in increasing the levels of red blood cells and not only treats the signs of anaemia but also helps in preventing such issues in the later stages of life. It is one of the best benefits to use.
9. Heals Cold and Congestion:
Dried Oregano has anti-bacterial properties making it quite suitable for treating colds, coughs, sore throats and chest congestion. This can also be used for young children to help them get instant relief. The best way to use it is to boil 1 tbsp of dry oregano leaves in a cup of water and add some honey. This should be given at regular intervals for faster healing.
Dried Oregano Benefits For Skin:
Here we enlisted the top 2 dried oregano benefits for the skin. Let’s have a look at them.
10. Prevents Aging:
Oregano is rich in antioxidants which makes it a powerful ingredient to prevent signs of ageing. Regular consumption of dried oregano herbs can reduce the cell damage caused due to oxidation. It also aids in new cell growth to reveal younger, fresher skin.
11. Anti-Acne Properties:
Oregano is known to have antibacterial properties. The oil from dried oregano leaves can be used on the skin for treating acne. The best way is to warm some oregano in a little bit of oil and apply it to the affected areas It is one of the best benefits of this herb.
Dried Oregano Benefits For Hair:
Here we enlisted, dried oregano benefits for hair. Let’s have a look at them.
12. Stops Hair Loss:
Dried Oregano oil can cleanse your scalp from many infections like dandruff, eczema and itchiness. It also stimulates the roots of your hair follicles to encourage new hair from sprouting. Usage of this oil regularly can help you deal with bald patches through visible results. However, as with any natural treatment, it takes anywhere between a few weeks to a few months to notice the difference.
Read: Why is Oregano Good for You?
Dried Oregano Side Effects:
Although Oregano carries great benefits, it also carries certain side effects when taken in larger quantities.
- Flavour-filled herbs are all meant for small applications. When used in larger amounts, herbs like Oregano may give you an upset stomach.
- Some people who are allergic to certain plants from the mint family may experience an allergic reaction.
- Pregnant women are generally asked not to consume Oregano as certain studies have shown that Oregano reduces the absorption of iron into the body. Apart from these mild side effects, Oregano usually isn’t a harmful herb.
Other side effects commonly experienced include:
- Burning sensation in the mouth.
- Nausea.
- Strong smell in the mouth.
- Dry throat.
Isn’t it wonderful to know about these dried oregano uses? Oregano has been in use since time immemorial in many countries. The incredible benefits of this herb make it one of the most sought-after ingredients in many cuisines. Apart from lending a powerful flavour to your food, dried oregano can do plenty of good to your hair! It’s time your pantry is stocked with this herb!
