Oregano (Dried)
Score
Dried oregano is one of the most antioxidant-dense culinary herbs, exceptionally rich in vitamin K, calcium, iron, and the phenolic compounds carvacrol and thymol.
Why Oregano (Dried) scores 97
Nutrition
per_100g
Health benefits
Provides potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory protection
moderate evidenceCarvacrol, thymol, and rosmarinic acid scavenge reactive oxygen species and downregulate NF-κB and COX-2 signaling, lowering systemic oxidative and inflammatory load
Exerts broad antimicrobial activity
moderate evidenceCarvacrol disrupts bacterial and fungal cell membranes, increasing permeability and dissipating ion gradients, which inhibits a wide range of pathogens including E. coli and Candida
Supports bone health and proper calcium handling
strong evidenceHigh vitamin K activates osteocalcin and matrix Gla protein, directing dietary calcium into bone while inhibiting arterial calcification
Aids digestion and gut comfort
limited evidenceVolatile phenolics stimulate digestive secretions and exert carminative and antispasmodic effects on the gastrointestinal tract
Pairs well with
- ·Pair with olive oil and tomato because oregano's carvacrol and thymol are fat-soluble and dissolve into the oil, improving absorption and flavor distribution
- ·Combine with legumes and red meat because its iron and vitamin C-independent phenolics complement plant and heme iron in hearty dishes
- ·Use with garlic because their combined antimicrobial compounds act synergistically
Practical tips
- ·Best timing: anytime
- ·Crush dried oregano between your fingers before adding to release the volatile oils trapped in the dried leaf
- ·Add early in cooking for sauces and braises since the dried form withstands heat well, unlike delicate fresh herbs
- ·Store in an airtight jar away from light and heat; potency fades within 1-2 years
