Oregano

In shrublands, sparse forests, stony barren meadows and road sides. It is found from the lowest altitudes of the mountain up to approximately 1,500 m asl. and sporadically up to 1,700 m.

Scattered and locally abundant. It is a perennial, herbaceous plant. Stems erect or ascending, sparsely hairy, up to 70 cm tall. Leaves opposite, with small petiole, ovate to ellipsoid, with sparse hairs and visible glands. The flowers are arranged in dense inflorescences at the top of the stems. Calyx and corolla with densely visible glandular dots. The corolla is usually pink. Oregano plants prefer well-lit places and are drought resistant. It flowers from July to September. It is an aromatic, medicinal, flavoring and beekeeping plant. It is the most popular spice in Mediterranean countries, used to flavor grilled meats and sauces. Its essential oil has a very high yield and is used in perfumery and pharmacopoeia, while after drying it is also used as a flavoring. Its action is considered tonic, expectorant, diuretic, laxative, emmenagogue, anti-psoriasis, antiepileptic and sedative for the digestive system. Its content of phenols and flavonoids gives it a strong antioxidant effect. In folk medicine, the extract from its leaves (oregano oil) is considered effective as anti-inflammatory for the ears.

Although collected by humans, no great pressure was observed on its population in Paggaio. It is widespread; therefore, any local pressure cannot be particularly harmful to lead to a large reduction in its population or distribution.

Least Concern.

The oregano is assigned to the “LC-Least Concern” category by IUCN, which does not necessarily mean that the species is safe or should not be protected. It rather means that the species “is not in immediate extinction risk if the current conditions are maintained”. It is not subjected to any national or international conservation status.