Oregano is commonly used as a garnish in salads, pastas, and pizzas, but did you know that it can help boost your digestive health as well? Oregano is a popular herb in Mediterranean cuisine and has been used in traditional medicine for centuries for its healing properties. Its essential oils are rich in antioxidants, which makes it helpful in treating several digestive issues. Let’s take a closer look at how oregano can help support your digestive health.

1. Oregano has anti-inflammatory properties

Inflammation in the digestive tract can lead to various digestive problems, including irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis, among others.

Oregano contains compounds such as carvacrol and thymol, which have anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds can help reduce inflammation and protect your gut from further damage.

2. Oregano has antimicrobial properties

Oregano has been used in traditional medicine as a natural antibiotic for centuries. Its essential oils have antimicrobial properties that can help fight against harmful bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella.

These bacteria are known to cause digestive issues such as diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea. Consuming oregano can help fight against such bacteria and protect your digestive system.

3. Oregano aids digestion

Oregano is known to stimulate the production of bile, which is essential for the digestion of fats. Bile helps break down fats and aids their absorption in the intestine.

Oregano can also help increase the secretion of digestive enzymes, which can improve the digestion of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Consuming oregano can help improve digestive efficiency and prevent digestive issues such as bloating, constipation, and diarrhea.

4. Oregano helps soothe upset stomach

Oregano has been traditionally used as a natural remedy for stomach discomforts such as nausea, vomiting, and bloating. Its essential oils can help soothe the stomach lining and reduce inflammation, which can provide relief from digestive discomforts.

Consuming oregano tea or adding oregano to your meals can help alleviate stomach discomforts and promote digestive health.

5. Oregano can improve gut microbiome

Gut microbiome refers to the trillions of microorganisms that live in our gut. These microorganisms play a crucial role in maintaining digestive health and overall wellbeing.

Oregano has prebiotic properties, which means it can help feed the beneficial gut bacteria and promote their growth. A healthy gut microbiome can improve digestion, boost immunity, and reduce the risk of several digestive and non-digestive illnesses.

6. Oregano can prevent and treat digestive infections

Oregano essential oils have been found to be effective against several harmful microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Consuming oregano can help prevent and treat digestive infections caused by harmful pathogens.

Oregano oil has been found to be particularly effective against the bacteria Helicobacter pylori, which is known to cause several digestive issues such as ulcers and acid reflux.

7. Oregano can promote liver health

The liver is a vital organ that plays a crucial role in digestion and the elimination of toxins from the body. Oregano has been found to promote liver health by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the liver.

Its essential oils are also known to improve liver function and protect it from damage.

8. Oregano can reduce the risk of colon cancer

Colon cancer is a type of cancer that affects the large intestine. Some studies have suggested that oregano can help reduce the risk of colon cancer.

Oregano contains compounds such as carnosic acid and rosmarinic acid, which have been found to have anti-cancer properties. These compounds can help prevent the growth and spread of cancer cells in the colon.

9. Oregano can improve overall digestive health

Consuming oregano regularly can help improve overall digestive health in several ways. Its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and prebiotic properties can help prevent and treat several digestive issues such as IBS, ulcers, acid reflux, and diarrhea.

Oregano can also improve liver function, reduce the risk of colon cancer, and promote a healthy gut microbiome.

10. How to consume oregano for digestive health

There are several ways to consume oregano for digestive health. You can add fresh or dried oregano to your meals, salads, soups, and stews. You can also make oregano tea by steeping fresh or dried oregano leaves in hot water for a few minutes.

Oregano essential oils are also available in the market, but it is essential to dilute them properly before consumption. You can consult a healthcare professional or a certified aromatherapist before using oregano essential oils for digestive health.

Conclusion

Oregano is a versatile herb that can provide various health benefits, including digestive health. Its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and prebiotic properties can help prevent and treat several digestive issues.

Consuming oregano regularly can improve liver function, reduce the risk of colon cancer, and promote overall digestive health.