OREGANO OVERVIEW INFORMATION

The Oregano leaf is used to make medicine.

Oregano is used for respiratory tract disorders such as coughs, asthma, croup, and bronchitis. It is also used for gastrointestinal (GI) disorders such as heartburn and bloating. Other uses include treating menstrual cramps, rheumatoid arthritis, urinary tract disorders including urinary tract infections (UTIs), headaches, and heart conditions.

The oil of oregano is taken by mouth for intestinal parasites, allergies, sinus pain, arthritis, cold and flu, swine flu, earaches, and fatigue. It is applied to the skin for skin conditions including acne, athlete's foot, oily skin, dandruff, canker sores, warts, ringworm, rosacea, and psoriasis; as well as for insect and spider bites, gum disease, toothaches, muscle pain, and varicose veins. Oregano oil is also used topically as an insect repellent.

In foods and beverages, oregano is used as a culinary spice and a food preservative.

How does it work?

Oregano contains chemicals that might help reduce cough and spasms. Oregano also might help digestion by increasing bile flow and fighting against some bacteria, viruses, fungi, intestinal worms, and other parasites.
 

Source: http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-644-OREGANO.aspx?activeIngredientId=644&activeIngredientName=OREGANO

Oregano Confusion

There are a number of different varieties of oregano. The strongest is considered to be Mexican oregano (Lippia graveolens,, which is actually from a different botanical family. Mexican oregano is also known as Mexican marjoram or Mexican wild sage, and if your recipe calls for this specifically, try not to substitute. Spanish (Origanum vivens) and Greek (Origanum heraclites) oregano follow in depth of flavor. 

Adding more confusion to the mix is the close relationship between marjoram (Origanum majorana) and oregano, which naturally means they also look very much alike. While its gentler flavor is sweeter and its aroma not quite as pungent, marjoram is often confused with oregano. Sweet marjoram has leaves which are slightly hairy and more gray-green in color. 
 http://homecooking.about.com/od/cookingfaqs/f/faqoregano.htm

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