Cretan Oregano

2024 Author: Gavin MacAdam | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-12-16 13:38

Oregano Cretan (lat. Origanum dictamnus) - one of the most useful species of the genus Oregano of the Lamb family, or Lipocytes. Another name is oregano dictamnus. It got its name in honor of the mountains called Dikti, located on the Greek island of Crete. In nature, it is found only at home. Typical growing areas are hard-to-reach areas, for example, ravines, gorges, rocks.

Characteristics of culture

Cretan oregano is represented by perennial herbaceous plants, reaching a height of 30 cm. Often in nature, and in culture, you can also find tall specimens exceeding 80-90 cm in height. The root of the core culture under consideration reaches deep layers. The lower foliage is trifoliate, complex; the top is simple. The flowers are pink, collected in dense inflorescences, equipped with purple-colored opaque foliage. Externally, the inflorescences are very similar to hop cones.

From the history

Myths tell that Aphrodite herself collected oregano of Crete. By the way, this aspect is confirmed by numerous images that have survived to our times. Since then, Cretan oregano has been ranked among the plants of love, even famous scientists have described its extraordinary effect on the body. Culture was previously thought to provide strength, enhance sexual performance, reduce the risk of inflammation, heal wounds, and reduce pain during childbirth.

Usage

Nowadays, Cretan oregano is used not only in medicine, but also in cooking. It has also firmly established its niche in the cosmetic industry, especially in cosmetics produced in Greece. Among the healing properties of the plant, one can note the ability to eliminate pain in the gastrointestinal tract, minimize pain in rheumatism (through rubbing), and also normalize high blood pressure and improve cerebral circulation.

Tea made from leaves of Cretan oregano is advised in case of malfunctions of the digestive system, lung diseases, as well as flu and colds. Cretan oregano tea will defeat the hated sore throat, as it is famous for its high anti-inflammatory properties. Tea and infusions of Cretan oregano can easily cope with insomnia.

In cooking, Cretan oregano is used as a spice, it is added to soups, meat and fish dishes. It is also irreplaceable in vegetable salads along with the popular parsley and dill. The plant gives dishes an amazing taste and aroma, which will be appreciated by even the most fastidious gourmets who understand food. Cretan oregano is also added when salting and pickling vegetables.

Essential oil and oregano extract are used in cosmetology. They are known to be famous for their powerful anti-aging properties, as they increase the firmness and elasticity of the cover. Often, Cretan oregano essential oil and extract are added to cosmetics designed to care for problem skin that is faced with acne and pimples.

The components under consideration are also suitable for the manufacture of cosmetics for dry skin, because they boast moisturizing properties, moreover, they lock the life-giving moisture to the "lock". By the way, an old recipe is popular in Greece, which includes olive oil and Cretan oregano oil. This mixture relieves irritation, moisturizes, soothes and nourishes the skin with a huge dose of vitamins, but especially vitamin E (aka tocopherol).

Growing on a windowsill

Experienced gardeners have more than once tried to grow Cretan oregano on their windowsills; in natural conditions on the territory of Russia, this process is impossible, since the plant belongs to heat-loving plants. Sowing is carried out in a substrate purchased in specialized stores, but first they carry out preparation - they soak the seeds for two days, renewing the water at least 3 times a day. It is important for the emerging seedlings to provide proper care (watering and feeding), otherwise the plants will not please with active growth.