The hidden health benefits of oregano you should know about
What's the story
Oregano is a well-known herb with aromatic flavor, commonly used in several cuisines. While most spice lovers enjoy its taste, not many are aware of the other, lesser-known benefits it offers. Apart from making dishes delicious, oregano has some properties that can actually do wonders for your overall health. Here, we take a look at five surprising benefits of adding oregano to your diet.
Antioxidant power
Rich source of antioxidants
Oregano is loaded with antioxidants, which help fight free radicals in the body. These compounds are key to protecting cells from damage and reducing oxidative stress. By adding oregano to your meals, you can increase your intake of these good stuff. This aids your body's natural defense against a host of health problems.
Digestive aid
Supports digestive health
Oregano also contains compounds that may help you digest food better by promoting the production of digestive enzymes. These enzymes help in breaking down the food better, potentially relieving common digestive discomforts like bloating and indigestion. Adding oregano to your diet may improve your digestive health and nutrient absorption.
Inflammation reduction
Natural anti-inflammatory properties
The active compounds present in oregano have been studied for their anti-inflammatory effects. Consuming it regularly might help keep inflammation in check within the body, which is associated with several chronic conditions. Adding this herb to your meals could be a simple way to keep an even inflammatory response in check.
Microbial defense
Potential antimicrobial effects
Studies suggest that oregano has antimicrobial properties due to the essential oils it has. These oils are powerful in curbing the growth of many harmful bacteria and fungi. This property offers an additional layer of protection against infections, making oregano a worthy addition to a balanced diet for improving the microbial defense.
Immune boosting
May support immune function
Oregano's abundance of vitamins and minerals can help you fight infections. It has vitamin C and other nutrients known for their contribution to immune health. Adding this herb regularly to your diet might help give an extra boost to your immune system, keeping it healthy all year round.