Fresh Oregano — Nutrients, Health Benefits, And Shopping Tips
Written by Listonic Team
Last update on September 4, 2024
Nutrition facts
Nutrition facts
Amount per 100 g
Calories
🔥 306 kcal
| Nutrition per: 100 g | Value | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Carbs | 64 g | 23.27% |
| Fiber | 43 g | 153.57% |
| Sugars | 4 g | 8% |
| Glycemic Index | 5 | - |
| Protein | 11 g | 22% |
| Sodium | 15 mg | 0.65% |
| Total Fat | 10 g | 12.82% |
*The % of Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
43 g
✅ High Fiber Content
11 g
🧀 Good Protein Content
Did you know?
Health benefits
- Rich in antioxidants, such as thymol and carvacrol, which help protect the body from free radicals and reduce inflammation.
- Supports digestive health by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes.
- Contains essential vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin K, Vitamin A, and manganese, which support overall health and well-being.
Health risks
- Potential for allergic reactions in some individuals, particularly those allergic to plants in the Lamiaceae family, causing symptoms like itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
- Digestive discomfort such as bloating or gas when consumed in large quantities, especially for those sensitive to high-fiber foods.
- Potential interactions with medications particularly blood thinners, as oregano may have mild anticoagulant effects.
- Risk of contamination with harmful bacteria or pesticides if not properly washed or sourced from a reputable supplier.
How to choose fresh oregano
Look for fresh oregano with robust, green leaves and firm stems. It should have a potent, earthy smell that is characteristic of the herb. Pinch a leaf to test its freshness—it should release a strong fragrance.
Avoid oregano that is wilting or browning at the edges. Well-kept fresh oregano should uplift your recipes with its pungent, peppery flavor.
How to store fresh oregano
Refrigeration is ideal for fresh oregano. Wrapping it in a damp paper towel and storing it in a plastic bag can help maintain its aroma and flavor. This way, oregano can stay fresh for up to a week.
Excess moisture can lead to spoilage. Washing oregano before storage is not recommended. Ensuring proper airflow helps preserve its freshness and prevents it from becoming moldy.
✅ Extra Tip
How long does it last?
Fresh oregano can last for 1-2 weeks in the refrigerator when stored in a plastic bag with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture. For longer storage, oregano can be dried and kept for up to 6 months in an airtight container.
What to do with leftovers?
Leftover fresh oregano can be used in a variety of culinary and non-culinary ways. In the kitchen, oregano is a versatile herb that adds a robust, earthy flavor to dishes like pasta sauces, pizzas, roasted vegetables, and grilled meats. It can be used fresh or dried and is a staple in Mediterranean and Mexican cuisines.
Beyond cooking, fresh oregano has several practical uses. It can be brewed into a tea, traditionally used to help relieve respiratory issues and support digestion. Oregano’s essential oils have natural antibacterial properties, making it useful in homemade cleaning solutions or as a natural disinfectant. Fresh oregano can also be added to bath sachets or potpourri to create a refreshing aroma. Additionally, it can be used in DIY beauty treatments, such as an herbal steam to cleanse and refresh the skin.
👨⚕️️ Medical disclaimer
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Listonic Team
Fact-checked
Our editorial team checked this article to make sure it was accurate at the time of publishing it.
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