What you once knew as a herb strictly relegated to Mediterranean cuisines and your kitchen spice rack, oregano contains a variety of natural healing properties.

Oregano oil has been used for centuries in both a culinary and medicinal context. For the ancient Greeks, it was considered a cure-all but we now know it is mostly beneficial for intestinal and immune health – in particular, digestive complaints and respiratory infections.

In an age where detoxifying is the epitome of health, oregano is revered for its purifying and cleansing properties. When sourcing oil of oregano, the oil from the leaf is best with its main active constituent being Thymol (also found in thyme and bergamot), which has a high antioxidant content.

"In an age where detoxifying is the epitome of health, oregano is revered for its purifying and cleansing properties."

For the everyday

It’s so easy to include herbs in in cooking. Typically, oregano is a staple in Mediterranean foods. Aromatically, it is herbaceous and green yet sharp. Try dried oregano in bolognese sauce or on roast lamb chops.

The elixir

For immune or digestive support, dilute one drop of pure essential oregano oil in 200mL of water and drink. This is a great remedy for tonsillitis, bronchitis, asthma and bloating.

On your body

Topically, you can add one to two drops of oregano oil to jojoba or coconut oil and massage sore joints. It is particularly energising when massaged into sore feet or on the temples for tension headaches. Oregano extract is amazing as a purifying agent for the scalp and can be found in Josh Rosebrook Balance Shampoo and Conditioner, available at Luna Beauty & Apothecary.

Fay Halkitis is a naturopath and facialist at Luna Beauty & Apothecary, Sydney.