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Italian cuisine gets much of its considerable zest from oregano.  It is aromatic and slightly bitter. The spice ajwain has notes of oregano amongst anise and black pepper in its profile. Oregano is part of the mint family, native to Eurasia and the East Mediterranean region. 

Can you use fresh and dry oregano interchangeably?

Oregano is considered more flavourful when dried than fresh. The fresh version is sharper, whereas the dried is more aromatic and milder. Due to their differences, they are best used separately, but if substituting, remember they have very differing ratios. 

What flavours go with Oregano?

• Aubergine
• Potatoes
• Marjoram
• Thyme
• Tomato

Both Oregano and Thyme share the same compound called thymol. Our 13th-century mixed herb blend Baqa and 14th-century all-purpose Sofrito both have examples of oregano with thyme amongst other alchemy. 

Health Benefits 

Oregano has antibacterial and antioxidant properties, often used to treat respiratory tract infections. 

Interesting Facts 

• The ancient Greeks believed that Aphrodite invented oregano to give to your man to make him happier. Perhaps we all need a little bit of oregano. 
• After the Second World War, it arrived in America by soldiers who came across it during the Italian campaign. 
• Folklore myths suggest oregano mixed with olive oil would cure baldness by rubbing it on your head. People would also grow it near their homes to protect them from evil. In the Greek translation, it means "joy of the mountains". 
• Oregano is another herb placed under your pillow to bring on psychic dreams. 

Chief flavour profile

Thymol: (thyme, penetrating and cooling) is a flavour compound found in Oregano. Individuals often detect a similarity between oregano and nigella because of a medicinal-tasting compound they both share. Bay, nutmeg and nigella all complement the oregano profile.