What is Oregano?

Oregano is the dried leaf of Origanum vulgare, a small perennial in the mint family (Lamiaceae). It is one of the iconic Mediterranean culinary herbs, and its flavor is often stronger dried than fresh, with a warm, aromatic, slightly bitter taste.

About the plant

The Greek name "oros ganos," commonly rendered "joy of the mountain," reflects the plant's habit of growing on dry, rocky Mediterranean hillsides. Oregano is essential to Italian, Greek, Mexican, and Middle Eastern cooking. Its aromatic compounds, chiefly carvacrol and thymol, vary by chemotype. It is distinct from Mexican Oregano (Lippia graveolens), an unrelated plant with a similar flavor.

Related herbs

• Olive Leaf Powder — another Mediterranean staple.
• Onion Powder — a companion in savory blends.

Oregano: form & sizes

We carry Oregano as organic cut and sifted dried leaf, sold by weight in sizes from 1 oz to 1 lb. We make no health or therapeutic claims.

Storage

Store Oregano in an airtight container, away from heat, light, and humidity, to preserve its color and aroma.

Oregano at a glance

Botanical name

Origanum vulgare

Family

Lamiaceae

Native region

the Mediterranean basin and Western Asia

Plant part

leaf

Sourcing

Organic

Name origin

Greek "oros ganos" (joy of the mountain)

Form

cut and sifted dried leaf

Sizes

1 oz to 1 lb