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 20^th 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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