Botanical Ingredient

Oregano

Origanum vulgare

Oregano is one of the most medicinally potent herbs in the Lamiaceae family, with an essential oil profile dominated by carvacrol and thymol — two phenolic compounds among the most studied for antimicrobial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. Native to the Mediterranean but naturalized in warm climates worldwide, oregano has been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years as a respiratory herb, wound treatment, and general antimicrobial. Its medicinal strength far exceeds its culinary familiarity.

AntimicrobialAntifungalAnti-inflammatoryAntioxidantCarminative
Oregano plant with small oval aromatic leaves and woody stems

Traditional Uses

  • Antimicrobial treatment for minor skin infections
  • Traditional respiratory support and decongestant
  • Anti-inflammatory poultice for wounds and joint pain
  • Antifungal skin applications
  • Greek and Roman remedy for bites, stings, and skin irritation

Key Properties

AntimicrobialAntifungalAnti-inflammatoryAntioxidantCarminative

Did You Know

Oregano's name comes from the Greek 'oros ganos' — joy of the mountain. Ancient Greeks believed it was created by Aphrodite as a symbol of happiness.

Our Sourcing

Oregano grows vigorously in InVine's Florida garden year-round, returning each season as a woody perennial. We harvest the leaves just before flowering — when carvacrol and thymol concentrations peak — then dry them slowly to preserve their volatile oils.

Why We Use It

[Janice to complete] Why oregano earns its place in the garden and what drew you to grow it.