Oregano tea, also known as a “tisane,” is made from fresh or dried oregano leaves and has both culinary and medicinal value. It can relieve colds, flu, asthma, and menstrual cramps, aid digestion, and has antibacterial properties. Oregano can be grown in a garden or in a pot on a sunny porch.
Oregano tea is an herbal infusion made from fresh or dried oregano leaves, a mixture that is generally referred to as a “tisane” rather than “tea.” Oregano is a flavorful herb that has both culinary and medicinal value. It makes a tasty addition to the herb garden or can be purchased fresh or dried at the market or herb vendor. An infusion can be prepared with fresh or dried oregano leaves.
An infusion made from oregano leaves is called a “tisana” instead of “tea.” True tea is a name reserved for beverages that use tea leaves from the Camellia sinensis plant. The name “tisane” is derived from the French word for “herbal tea.” A steeped drink that does not contain true tea leaves is considered a tisane. Technicalities aside, the name “tea” is commonly used to refer to herbal teas, including oregano tea.
Medicinally, oregano tea is used to relieve colds and flu, nasal inflammation, and asthma symptoms. It may also be beneficial for rheumatism and general aches and pains. Oregano tea is also used to relieve menstrual cramps and nausea. An infusion made from oregano leaves can also aid digestion and relieve nausea.
As a culinary herb, oregano leaves add a spicy flavor, well suited to Mexican and Mediterranean-style cooking. The leaves can be harvested and used fresh from the garden. However, using dried or powdered oregano is a convenient way to keep this herb on hand in the kitchen.
Oregano tea, and the oregano herbs used in cooking, are naturally high in antioxidants and vitamin K. The herb also has antibacterial properties. Oregano tea can be used as a topical wash or mouthwash, for example, to prevent and help cure bacterial infections.
Growing oregano is one of the best ways to keep fresh herbs on hand. Even if there is no space available in the garden, a pot on the windowsill or a sunny porch can be used. As long as the area receives a minimum of six hours of sun per day, the oregano will grow well. In the garden, oregano should be spaced 8 to 12 inches (about 20 to 30 cm) apart. A pot 8 to 12 inches in diameter (about 20 to 30 cm) works well for a single plant.
The leaves can be harvested as needed throughout the season. The best way to harvest oregano is to simply pinch the leaves off the stem, taking only a few leaves from each area. The entire plant can also be harvested and dried in the fall for use in winter.
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