Description
Desert oregano is a small, rounded sub-shrub, often growing next to or under larger shrubs and trees. The younger stems of the plant are ridged, the older growth lesser so. Desert oregano’s leaves are small, oval, oppositely arranged, and delicately perched beneath tiny, whitish flower spikes. Bees are quite fond of the plant during the spring and summer when it is in flower. The scent of Desert oregano after brushing up against it or crushing a few leaves between the fingers is friendly and disarming. Actually, the plant smells much closer to a cross between Lavender and Lemon verbena – certainly not Oregano with its cutting pungency.
Distribution
From isolated outposts in southern California it ranges southeast through Arizona, southern New Mexico, and southern Texas. It is typically seen growing on hillsides, rocky slopes, and on the edges of drainage areas between 1,200-6,000 feet.
This is an essential oil listing for Aloysia triphylla or Lemon verbena. Desert Oregano contains similar compounds, but owing to its bitterness and other differences, some variation is to be expected.
Medicinal Uses
The tincture or the tea taken before meals is a functional, aromatic bitter. Through reflex, in response to bitterness, digestive secretions (particularly pepsinogen and hydrochloric acid) are stimulated. Blood flow is shifted to the stomach walls by the dilating nature of the plant’s aromatics. TakeDesert oregano when there is indigestion after a meal. If a recently eaten meal feels immovable and the stomach is bloated Desert oregano is warranted.
Indications Indigestion with bloating
Collection
If the foliage smells strongly Lavender-like, it will make good medicine. Gently strip the leaves and flowers from the upper branches. Dry the herbage for tea or use fresh.
Preparations and Dosage Leaf infusion: 4-8 ounces 3-4 times daily
FPT/DPT (50% alcohol): 30-60 drops 3-4 times daily
Cautions
Do not use during pregnancy due the plant’s potential of stimulating uterine vasculature.