Oregano is a type of herb that grows year after year and belongs to the plant family as mint, basil, thyme, rosemary and sage. It has a smell and taste that can enhance the flavors of dishes particularly in Mediterranean cuisine. Furthermore oregano is packed with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals that offer health benefits.
Now what makes oregano a herb for burning fat? Interestingly enough oregano contains compounds that can boost your metabolism and curb your appetite—two factors, for achieving weight loss. Let's delve deeper into how oregano can assist you in shedding those pounds.
How Oregano Boosts Your Metabolism
Carvacrol, a compound found in oregano, has properties that can assist in burning fat. It belongs to a class of chemicals called terpenoids, which exhibit biological activities. Studies indicate that carvacrol possesses inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial qualities.
Now the question arises; How does carvacrol impact metabolism? According to a 2015 study this compound can activate proteins and genes in the body that regulate synthesis and breakdown processes. As a result carvacrol increases the rate at which the body consumes stored fat for energy production. This effect is particularly prominent in the liver and brown adipose tissue (BAT).
Brown adipose tissue is responsible for generating heat by burning calories. Unlike adipose tissue (WAT) which stores energy as fat deposits, BAT helps expend energy and maintain body temperature. While BAT is more abundant in infants and hibernating animals adults also possess some BAT located in their necks, chests and backs.
Carvacrol stimulates BAT activity by enhancing the expression of uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) a protein that facilitates heat production within mitochondria – the powerhouses. By boosting thermogenesis (heat generation) within BAT carvacrol aids in calorie. Fat reduction, throughout the day.
How Oregano Suppresses Your Appetite
Another way in which oregano can assist in weight loss is, by curbing your appetite and reducing cravings. Oregano contains thymol, a type of terpenoid that shares qualities with carvacrol. Thymol has been found to possess anti antioxidant and antiseptic effects.
Furthermore thymol can impact your appetite by regulating the levels of hormones and neurotransmitters involved in hunger and satisfaction control. For instance it may decrease ghrelin levels, a hormone for stimulating hunger while increasing leptin levels, a hormone that signals fullness.
By doing thymol could aid in making you feel content with smaller meals and prevent overindulgence. Additionally it might reduce cravings for calorie foods such as sweets and fats by influencing the reward system within your brain.
How to Use Oregano for Weight Loss
Oregano is a herb that you can easily add to your meals. Whether using dried oregano leaves you can sprinkle them on salads, soups, stews, sauces, pizzas or pasta dishes to enhance the flavor. Another idea is to make tea by steeping either dried leaves in hot water for around 10 minutes.
Alternatively there's oil. It's an extract of oregano containing levels of carvacrol and thymol. You can find it in form or, as drops that you can take orally or apply topically. Nevertheless it's important not to overdo it with the oil as it might cause irritation or adverse reactions in individuals.
The recommended dosage for oil varies depending on the product and its intended use. As a guideline for weight loss purposes try not to exceed 500 milligrams (mg) of oil, per day.. Always consult your doctor before using oil if you have any medical conditions or are currently taking any medications.
Conclusion
Oregano, a herb known for its potential to aid in burning and metabolism boosting can be incorporated into your diet to enjoy these benefits. You can add around 1–2 teaspoons of dried oregano. Use 1–2 drops of oil in your meals or beverages on a daily basis. However it's important to exercise caution and avoid consumption or taking it on a stomach as it may lead to discomfort or irritation. Remember to consult with your doctor before making any modifications to your diet or supplement routine.
