During the 1950s, oregano was not commonly known in US households. However, it is now widely recognized and appreciated for its savory taste and numerous beneficial health effects.
Oregano tea is super healthy to consume and has many beneficial health effects ranging from simple pain relief to cancer-fighting properties. Oregano also contains many vitamins and amino acids that are essential to maintaining optimal physical and mental well-being.
While most of us know this herb from Italian and Greek dishes, there are many who don’t realize just how good it is for us. Below, we dive into the benefits and uses of this ancient herb.
Oregano Tea Health Benefits
Oregano is considered an antioxidant, which means that it contains compounds that fight oxidization, a natural process that over time can lead to certain cancers without the correct diet and lifestyle.
Furthermore, the vitamins, minerals, and essential oils that are found in this herb have a long list of health benefits for our bodies. These nutrients can have some amazing healing and soothing effects, including acting as natural painkillers, immune system strengtheners, and relaxants.
Oregano Tea Benefits for Lungs
The benefits that oregano tea can offer to the respiratory system are well-known and documented. Rosmarinic acid which is found in oregano can help with inflammation of the lungs caused by mucus buildup.
The added benefit of ingesting warm oregano tea is the hydration and loosening of mucus, which thereby expels pathogens from the body. Consider this remedy as an additional healing method the next time you have a cold.
Oregano Tea Benefits for Skin
Oregano is high in vitamins E and K, both of which are super important for maintaining healthy and youthful skin. You only need to drink one or two cups of oregano tea per day to enjoy these skin benefits.
Oregano Tea Benefits for Digestion
Since early on in Greek writing, there has been mention of the digestive benefits that oregano brings. Simply enjoy warm oregano tea around your mealtimes, and you should notice an improvement in stomach upset caused by certain foods.
Oregano Tea Benefits for Period
Oregano contains a natural analgesic called carvacrol, which is a chemical that can act as a painkiller. When brewed into tea, this herb may aid in stress and pain symptoms associated with menstruation.
Dehydration can also be a very real risk during periods, so one or two cups of oregano tea can do you a world of good in terms of hydration and the added nutrients from the herb.
Oregano Tea for Inflammation
Oregano contains chemicals that have anti-inflammatory properties and may be useful as a natural antihistamine. Daily consumption of oregano tea may also limit reactions to environmental stress that can throw your body’s function out of balance.
Antibacterial, Antiviral, and Antifungal Properties
Because oregano contains strong immune system benefits, it can be useful for preventing viral and bacterial infections.
Preliminary studies have found carvacrol and oregano oil to have the potential to lower infection rates from viruses, which is very promising for the use of oregano tea as a daily addition to diets.
Is Oregano Tea Good for Acid Reflux?
As a rule of thumb, hydration plays a huge part in regulating a good balance of stomach acid and may help to prevent acid reflux. Oregano is also considered alkaline with a pH of 8.0, so it certainly won’t increase acid reflux.
Because oregano works against inflammation in the stomach, it can also be a good alternative seasoning to pepper or chilis, which are often associated with acid reflux.
Is Oregano Tea Good for Sleeping?
Thymol is a chemical found in oregano that helps to fight free radicals in the body and to relax your body. Therefore, it can have a soothing effect when ingested before bedtime and promote better sleep. This is best achieved alongside a planned sleep routine and regular exercise.
Oregano Tea Side Effects
An increased intake of oregano tea may result in obvious side effects, such as increased visits to the bathroom. Larger quantities may also have opposite side effects to the benefits listed above, such as increased alertness, irritation, and gastric upset.
In rare cases, oregano may also cause allergic reactions. For those who experience irritation after consuming herbs like mint or basil, it is recommended to stay away from oregano as it can likewise cause allergic reactions.
Can I Drink Oregano Tea Every Day?
Yes, oregano tea can be consumed every day alongside a balanced diet and lifestyle that includes regular exercise such as walking or high-intensity interval training. Just remember to limit yourself to two to three cups per day.
This is because an excess of oregano can have diuretic or irritating effects; plus, variety is the spice of life, and consuming different teas as well as plain water will keep you energized, healthy, and happy.
Who Should Not Take Oregano?
Oregano is usually fine to consume for everyone who is not allergic. However, in very large quantities, it may have adverse effects on those using blood thinners or diabetes medications — this is usually the case for oregano oil, but, not the unprocessed plant product.
You should also avoid oregano if you are allergic to herbs like mint or basil, which are in the same family. If you ever feel unwell after consuming a new food, you should contact your physician.
Oregano Tea During Pregnancy
Oregano tea during pregnancy should cause no unwanted side effects, but you should always consult your doctor before changing your diet dramatically, especially when there are two lives involved.
Is Oregano Tea as Good as Oregano Essential Oil?
That depends! The less processed a food or supplement is, the better it is for you. However, oregano oil can be more beneficial for aromatherapy and for those seeking a strong and condensed tincture.
Oregano oil may also be useful for the maintenance of healthy hair, and there are reports that it is a good alternative to harsh dandruff-removal shampoos.
It is also important to remember that oregano oil can have a much more pronounced effect as opposed to consuming it raw or dried. It is therefore advisable to speak to a physician before taking using oregano essential oil to ensure that it is safe and that you can reap the benefits from it.
How To Make Oregano Tea (From Fresh Leaves)
It is super simple to make your own oregano tea: simply boil water, add oregano leaves to a heat-resistant cup, and then pour the slightly cooled water into the pot and let steep for at least five minutes.
If you desire stronger tea, let the oregano sit in the water as you sip. For milder tea, remove leaves after around 5-7 minutes.
Dried Oregano Tea
Dried oregano contains fewer nutrients and less flavor; however, it can certainly be a healthy beverage as a second choice to fresh leaves. Because dried oregano is usually much finer, you will need to use a tea strainer to contain the green matter.
Flavor Additions and Sweeteners for Oregano Tea
Any herbal tea is instantly more flavorful with a little honey added for sweetness. You can also combine herbs such as fennel seeds, mint, or thyme into your oregano tea.
A slice of lemon or ginger is also a delicious way to jazz up any tea when you are feeling a little bored of the usual brew.
Best Time To Drink Oregano Tea
Oregano tea can be enjoyed all throughout the day; however, there are benefits to drinking it around mealtimes and before bed.
Conclusion
In a world filled with man-made medicines and readily available pharmacy drugs, it is nice to find a more natural approach. Oregano tea has some wonderful benefits that can do you some serious good. Once you start adding simple wellness routines into your life, you will be amazed at how quickly you will start to feel better and also improve other areas of your life.