What is the history of oregano?

Answer 1

Oregano is native to northern Europe, although it grows throughout many regions of the world, and was first used by the Greeks. The word "oregano" is actually derived from the Greek phrase, "joy of the mountains." In Greek mythology, the goddess Aphrodite gave oregano to mortals to make their lives happier. Brides and grooms were crowned with wreaths of it. It was also put on graves to give peace to departed spirits. Ancient Greek physicians prescribed oregano for a variety of ailments. Hippocrates used it, as well as its close cousin, marjoram, as an antiseptic.

The Romans later conquered Greece and adopted much of its culture. The ease of oregano's cultivation coupled with the Roman thirst for Empire spread oregano's use throughout Europe and much of Northern Africa. In these regions it was used to flavor food and even wine.

In the middle ages, oregano cultivation had reached what is now France. It became one of the few strong flavorings available to give variety to the otherwise bland daily diet. People chewed oregano leaves as a cure for rheumatism, toothache, indigestion, and cough.

Oregano found its way to China probably via the spice road through the Middle-East during the Medieval period. Chinese doctors prescribed oregano to relieve fever, vomiting, diarrhea, jaundice, and itchy skin.

Later, the English used oregano as an additive to snuff and as a perfume in sachets. Oregano was relatively unknown in the United States prior to the Second World War. Soldiers returning from Italy brought home an increased demand for it.

Answer 2

Its name is from the Greek word oreganos, which loosely translated means "joy of the mountains."

Answer 3

Dried oregano is made form the dried leaves of the oregano plant.