This Herb Can Do Wonders for Your Immune System

Madeleine Steinbach/Shutterstock

Your immune system is a complex network responsible for defending your body against pathogens. Consider including this herb to fight the common cold and support your gut microbiome.

STORY AT-A-GLANCE

• Oregano is an herb with a potent antioxidant capacity that not only is high in the phytonutrients carvacrol and thymol, but has one of the higher Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) measurements in the herb family
• Oregano oil can be purchased as an extract or essential oil. The extract, oil of oregano, can also be made at home from fresh leaves. Take care when purchasing oils since some manufacturers sell adulterated products
• The extract and essential oil can be used topically to help treat fungal infections, such as athlete’s foot or ringworm. Data show diluted oil can be used in wound care dressings to prevent infections and topically to treat pain and swelling
• Oil of oregano is a popular treatment for the common cold and can be used to support beneficial bacteria in your small intestines by treating bacterial overgrowth and norovirus that triggers gastroenteritis

Oregano (Origanum vulgare) is usually associated with Italian cooking. The perennial plant is part of the mint family (Lamiaceae) and is native to Mediterranean and western Asian countries. Today, it’s one of the most widely used herbs and is even one of the herbs found in chili powder.[1]