OREGANO

Let go of the past
With the Joy of the Mountain
Hear the magic of dreams
From negative get protection

Like most of the "Italian" herbs, oregano originates from the mountains around the Mediterranean.  The word oregano is derived from the Greek term for Joy of the Mountain.  This highly useful herb is used to flavor foods from around the world but is most closely associated with Italian, Greek, Egyptian, and Mexican foods.  This is a strong herb in the mint family that is often used interchangeably with marjoram.  In my area, oregano is a slightly woody herbaceous perennial where marjoram is an annual.  I choose to grow oregano for its flavor and medicinal properties.

Many people find oregano is useful to calm aches and pains, digestive distress, and other minor issues.  When it is used as an aroma therapy, it might calm nerves.  It definitely gives a spicy aroma to the home.  The flower heads can be used to produce a reddish brown dye and the leaves can be used to polish wood.

Oregano symbolizes love, family, and joy.  It is frequently used in bouquets for weddings to encourage love and fidelity.  It is believed to encourage strong family ties.  Its uplifting scent and flavor can brighten a day.  Some people add a few sprigs to a hot bath to calm the nerves and bring courage and clarity into their lives.

For those who work with the more energetic aspects of herbs, oregano carries a wealth of potential in a small plant.  When it is used in a candle or burned as incense, it can be used to bring good luck, abundance, or protection.  Planting it around the house is believed to protect the home from evil and unwanted guests.  Burning the leaves is believed to bring justice to a situation.  Oregano can also be used to release us from the past and from negative thought patterns.

This calming herb is one that is used for deep spiritual listening.  Some use it under the pillow to promote psychic dreams, dream recall, and dream work.  It is often used to promote spiritual work.  It is used to aid ancestral work.  

No matter what your purpose, oregano is a good herb to have around.  It flavors food and drink.  It promotes good health and calmness.  It helps you hear the lessons of the past and let go of the attachments to what was.

Best of all, it is an easy herb to grow.