In a world where convenience often takes precedence over health, it's essential to scrutinise our daily choices, even when it comes to seemingly minor aspects of our diet. One such instance is the decision between store-bought and homemade oregano. While store-bought oregano may appear convenient, there are compelling reasons why making your own at home is the healthier choice.
Purity and Quality Control
When you grow your own oregano or source it from local markets, you have greater control over its cultivation and harvesting. Store-bought herbs, on the other hand, may contain pesticides, preservatives, or other additives.
According to a study titled ‘Unpredictable Adverse Effects of Herbal Products,’ the most common malpractices in store-bought herbs are impurities, contaminants, and adulterants. By cultivating your oregano, you can ensure its purity and enjoy a more wholesome flavour without the worry of harmful chemicals.
Nutrient Retention
Freshly harvested oregano retains a higher level of essential nutrients compared to its store-bought counterparts. The drying and packaging process that commercial herbs undergo can lead to a loss of flavour and nutritional value, which defeats the whole purpose of oregano.
A study published in ‘Nutrition Today’ explained that the bioactive compounds in oregano possess antimicrobial properties that help counter infections and potent antioxidants that boost cardiovascular and nervous systems, possess anti-inflammatory properties and modulate blood sugar. Making your own oregano allows you to consume it at its peak, preserving its vitamins and minerals for optimal health benefits.
Customisation
Creating your oregano allows for customisation to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. You can choose to grow specific varieties of oregano with distinct flavours or experiment with organic cultivation methods. This level of control over the herb's development ensures a product that aligns with your health goals and culinary preferences.
Reduced Environmental Impact
Growing your oregano at home contributes to a smaller carbon footprint compared to mass-produced, commercially packaged herbs. By cultivating a small herb garden, you minimise transportation-related emissions and support sustainable practices. This environmentally conscious choice aligns with a holistic approach to health that considers both personal and planetary well-being.
Cost-Effective
While purchasing herbs may seem cost-effective initially, the cumulative expense over time can be significant. Home cultivation provides a sustainable, cost-effective solution, allowing you to enjoy fresh oregano without constantly replenishing your supply from the store. This not only benefits your wallet but also promotes a sense of self-sufficiency.
Also Read: Power of Oregano Oil: 7 Health Benefits to Improve Overall Well-being
Making Oregano Seasoning At Home
Oregano seasoning doesn’t just contain using dried leaves of the herb. It also involves a host of other spices that pack a punch of flavour and health benefits. To make this seasoning at home, here’s what you need to do:
Ingredients
- 20-25 fresh carom or marjoram leaves
- 1 tbsp salt
- 1 tbsp black pepper
- ½ tbsp carom or marjoram leaves powder
- ½ tbsp dried basil
- ¼ tsp dried rosemary
- 2 tbsp powdered garlic
- ½ tsp chilli powder
Instructions
- Take the carom leaves and wash them thoroughly with water 2-3 times.
- You can dry these leaves under the fan, in the sun, or simply in a microwave. Make sure the leaves are completely dried up.
- Grind these leaves into a powder using a grinder or a mortar and pestle.
- Add the rest of the spices to this mixture.
- Store it in an airtight container, and keep it in a cool dry place.
Also Read: Wondering What Makes Oregano A Must? Know These 5 Science-Backed Benefits
In the quest for a healthier lifestyle, the choice between store-bought and homemade oregano is more than a matter of convenience—it's a decision that impacts your well-being and the environment. By opting to cultivate your own oregano, you gain control over its quality, purity, and flavor, while also contributing to a more sustainable and conscious way of living.