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What's the big deal with oregano? Many of you have eaten foods containing oregano, or even sprinkled it on your pizza, without knowing its healing powers. In a comparative research, oregano topped the list of healthy herbs according to the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. According to, Shiow Y. Wang, Ph.D., the study's lead researcher and biochemist, herbs with the highest antioxidant activity belonged to the oregano family. In general, oregano had three to 20 times higher antioxidant activity than the other herbs studied.

On a per gram fresh weight basis, oregano and other herbs ranked even higher in antioxidant activity than fruits and vegetables, which are known to be high in antioxidants. Oregano has 42 times more antioxidant activity than apples, 30 times more than potatoes, 12 times more than oranges and four times more than blueberries, Wang said.

But, don't head for your cupboards yet, the form of oregano that contains the most health benefits is the oil of oregano. Thanks to one of the powerful compounds found in the plant, carvacrol, it can fight off a range of infections and a variety of fungi. Extensive research has been conducted on oil of oregano and it has been credited as an effective treatment for ailments such as indigestion, Candida (yeast overgrowth), diarrhea, nervous tension, insect bites, toothache, earache rheumatism, and bronchitis (primarily for it's antispasmodic effects), among other disorders.

It's such a beneficial herb that book solely on oregano was even published. Dr. Cass InGram unveiled its overlooked health benefits in The Cure is in the Cupboard: How to Use Oregano for Better Health. He notes that "wild oregano is a veritable natural mineral treasure-house, containing a density of minerals that would rival virtually any food." The wild oregano is rich in a long list of minerals that includes calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron, potassium, copper, boron, and manganese. Vitamins C and A (beta carotene) and niacin also are contained in oregano. All of this helps make oregano oil a significant factor in treating internal and external fungi including athletes foot. Skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema can be improved with the treatment as well. Ingram explains the astonishing discovery that "oil of oregano outright destroys all variety of fungi and yeasts, regardless of where they reside."

There are many oregano supplements in the market, but beware of their content. To be beneficial the oil must be wild, mountain-grown and free of all chemicals and pesticides. It also has to be emulsified in a carrier oil such as extra virgin olive oil. True oregano grows only under specific soil and climate conditions and cannot be reproduced in your own backyard, even if the seeds are planted.

North American Herb & Spice NAHS) was the first company on the American market to introduce edible Oil of Oregano. Their oil is from 100% hand-picked, wild, Mediterranean oregano along with, documented research and testimonials of proven success.

Since June 2000, Annika has owned and operated Rockwell Nutrition, Inc., offering top of the line, professional brand nutritional supplements, as well as private consultations to individuals requiring customized eating and supplement plans for their health concerns and goals. She has become skilled at using diagnostic tests including diet analysis, food allergy testing, blood tests, and hair analysis to help asses the best treatment options for women's health and conditions including cancer, heart disease, diabetes, weight gain, low energy, and gastrointestinal ailments. Annika's specialty is her customized health programs which are unique for each client.