Oregano is endemic to Mediterranean region but is cultivated in Mexico, Italy, Turkey, Dominican Republic and Greece. In India it is found in temperate Himalayas from Kashmir to Sikkim. It is a hardy plant and can be grown in all warm garden soils. Temperate to sub-tropical climate is preferred by the plant and it grows in light, well-drained soil in a sunny position.
Oregano is used in meat, sausages, salads, dressings, stews and soups.
In food industry, oregano oil and oleoresin is used in food and beverages.
Oregano oil is used in alcoholic beverages and in baked goods. It is a
most common spice for pizza.
The oregano oil possesses carminative, stomachic, diuretic, diaphoretic
properties. It is used in whooping cough and bronchitis. It is also used
as an external application for healing wounds. It has antioxidant and
anti-microbial properties.