Oregano (Origanum compactum), sometimes referred to as "wild marjoram", is a perennial herbaceous plant growing to a height of thirty to sixty centimetres. It belongs to the Lamiaceae family, along with marjoram (Origanum marjorana), though it is not native to Asia like this latter.
Growing spontaneously in Mediterranean areas (Spain, Morocco), its stems are hairy and its leaves are pointed and slightly dentate. Its flowers are grouped in compact and fragrant pinkish to red inflorescences.
Main aromatic molecules: Monoterpene phenols (carvacrol, thymol), monoterpenes (α and β-pinenes), monoterpenols (linalool).
Family: Lamiaceae.
Producing organs: Aerial parts.
Yield: 1 to 2kg of essential oil per 100kg of plants.
Equivalence: 1ml → 34 drops (dosage calculated for a calibrated dropper European Pharmacopoeia).
