Oregano has been associated with improved human health and hygiene since pre-historic times, because of its high nutritional value. Explore more nutrition facts about oregano, through this article.

Nutritional Value Of Oregano

Oregano (oros - mountain, ganos - joy), botanically known as Origanum vulgare, is a well-known perennial herb belonging to the plant family Lamiaceae and the order Lamiales. This well-known aromatic herb is renowned for its warm, balsamic flavor and is regarded as the perfect addition to a number of traditional Mediterranean and Mexican dishes, apart from being the perfect seasoning for the world famous Italian dish - ‘pizza’. Native to the northern zone of Europe, oregano is cultivated in a number of places in the world today. The herb was especially popular with the ancient Greeks and Romans, who regarded it as a symbol of joy and happiness. Its cultivation in France started during the Middle Ages and it was only in the early part of the 20th century that the spice gained popularity among the Americans. Apart from being an important culinary addition, oregano is also known for its high vitamin and mineral levels. Due to this, it provides resistance against a number of ailments and diseases. To help you get a better idea about the high nutritional value of oregano, a Food Rating Chart is being given in the lines below.
 
Oregano Nutrition Facts
 
Amount of Oregano: 1 tsp
Total Weight of Oregano: 1 gram
 
Nutrients
Amount
Basic Components
 
Protein 
0.1 g
Carbohydrates
0.6 g
Water
0.1 g
Ash
0.1 g
Calories
 
Total Calories
13.0 KJ
Calories From Fat
3.8 KJ
Calories From Carbohydrate
Calories From Protein
8.0 KJ
1.3 KJ
Carbohydrates
 
Dietary Fiber
0.4 g
Starch
0.4 g
Sugar
 
Glucose
19.0 mg
Sucrose
9.1 mg
Fructose
11.3 mg
Galactose
1.5 mg
Fats
 
Total Fat
0.1g
Poly Fat 
0.1 g
Vitamins
 
Vitamin A
69.0 IU
Vitamin A
Retinol Activity Equivalent
Beta Carotene
 
3.5 mcg
41.1 mcg
Niacin
0.1 mg
Betaine
Choline
0.1 mg
0.3 mg
Vitamin C
0.5 mg
Vitamin E (Alpha Tocopherol)
0.2 mg
Vitamin E (Beta Tocopherol)
0.1 mg
Vitamin E (Gamma Tocopherol)
0.2 mg
Folate
2.7 mcg
Vitamin K
6.2 mcg
Minerals
 
Calcium
15.8 mg
Iron
0.4 mg
Magnesium
2.7 mg
Phosphorus
2.0 mg
Potassium
16.7 mg
Selenium
0.1 mcg
Sodium
0.1 mg
Fluoride
0.1 mcg
Saturated Fats
 
16:0 Palmitic
17.0 mg
18:0 Stearic
5.8 mg
Mono Fats
 
18:1 Oleic
5.1 mg
Poly Fats
 
18:2 Linoleic
10.5 mg
18:3 Linolenic
41.8 mg
Other Fats
 
Omega 3 Fatty Acids
41.8 mg
Omega 6 Fatty Acids
10.5 mg
Amino Acids
 
Alanine
0.1 g
Arginine
0.1 g
Aspartate
0.1 g
Cystine
0.1 g
Glutamate
0.1 g
Glycine
0.1 g
Histidine
0.1 g
Isoleucine
0.1 g
Leucine
0.1 g
Lysine
0.1 g
Methionine
0.1 g
Phenylalanine
0.1 g
Proline
0.1 g
Serine
0.1 g
Threonine
0.1 g
Tryptophan
0.1 g
Tyrosine
0.1 g
Valine
0.1 g
 

Buying & Storing Tips
 
  • To get a superior flavor, select fresh oregano over the dried variety. While purchasing the fresh variety, check for the color and texture of the leaves. They should look fresh and have a vibrant hue. Also, the stems should be firm and free of any dark spots or yellowing.
  • To get a better collection of herbs at reasonable rates, explore the local markets and spice stores, rather than purchasing from the supermarkets. This is especially useful if you want to go for the fresh variety.
  • While purchasing dried oregano, try to buy the stock that has been grown organically. This way, you can avoid all the hazards that the irradiated varieties can cause.
  • The best way to store fresh oregano is by wrapping it in a slightly damp paper towel and keeping it in the refrigerator. It may also be frozen in airtight containers, either chopped or as whole.
  • Another way to store fresh oregano is by freezing it in ice cube trays, filled either with water or stock that can be added later on, while preparing soup or stew.
  • The ideal way of storing dried oregano is by keeping it in an airtight container, in a cool, dark and dry room. This will keep it fresh for a period of about 6 months.

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