History and origin of oregano

Oregano’s name comes from the Greek word oros ganos, meaning joy of the mountain.

Mediterranean oregano was originally grown extensively in Greece and Italy. Records on the use of oregano date back thousands of years: famous ‘hyssop’, mentioned in the Bible, is believed to be an Origanum syriacum L. plant.

Originally used to flavor ale and beer in Europe, oregano is an essential spice in Italian pizzas, Tex-Mex chili con carne, and Mexican beans. Early brewers used oregano in their beer to disguise off flavors before they discovered hops. 

The ancient Greek and Egyptians used oregano to flavor fish, meats, vegetables and wine. The ancient Roman scholar Pliny recommended oregano poultices for scorpion and spider bites.

As early as the 1400s, oregano had a variety of medicinal, cosmetic and household uses. It was used as a palliative for headache, rheumatism, colic, upset stomach, cough and scurvy.

Before World War II, oregano was almost unknown in the United States. However, its popularity skyrocketed with the popularity of pizza.
History and origin of oregano