Oregano (oregano) and thyme (thyme): plant differences and which is better to choose

Oregano and thyme are very common spices that are often used in cooking and traditional medicine. They have certain features. At the same time, not everyone knows the differences between oregano (oregano) and thyme (thyme). They relate to appearance, taste, aroma and chemical composition. There is also a difference in the scope of use.

What are these spices

Thyme is also called thyme. It is a spicy spice that is widely used throughout the world. The spice is mainly added to Mediterranean dishes.In appearance, the plant resembles a small shrub that has hard leaves and pink-lilac flowers. Thyme contains thymol and a large amount of essential oils. Because the plant is considered very useful.

Oregano, or oregano, is a perennial shrub that features elongated leaves and pink-purple flowers. The herb is widely used in cooking and gives dishes a spicy taste and aroma. Both crops belong to the Yasnotkov family.

How are they different

The differences between the spices under consideration affect a number of features. They relate to the appearance, taste, content of useful components.

Appearance

Oregano has a straight, not too branched stem, which is covered with fluff. It has medium-sized leaves that are placed in pairs and have pointed tips.Plant height is 50-80 centimeters. Paniculate inflorescences have tubular buds of a purple-pink hue.

Thyme has a creeping stem. It has a small height - about 35 centimeters. There are many small leaves on the stem, which are arranged in a checkerboard pattern. They are tough and pointed. The flowers are in clusters and can be pinkish, white or pale purple.

Taste sensations

Dry herbs have a similar taste. It is tart, slightly sweet and quite rich. Woody notes are also clearly felt. Thyme has a subtle camphor tinge, while oregano has a more tart taste.

Vitamin galore

Origanum is a valuable source of phytoestrogens, tannins, coumarins. It also contains many different vitamins. The stems and leaves contain fatty acids and trace elements.

Thyme has about the same vitamin composition. However, it additionally contains hepatoprotectors, flavonoids and ursolic acid.

Origin and range

Cultures belong to the same family, and therefore require similar growing conditions. Thyme is found in steppes with sandy zones. It grows in Siberia and Transbaikalia. At the same time, the south of France and Spain are considered the birthplace of culture. Oregano has similar preferences, so plants are often confused. Moreover, their flowering time comes at the same time - in July or early August.

Application

It is believed that thyme is, first of all, a medicinal crop. However, it is often used in cooking as well. This spice is added to fatty pork and lamb dishes. Thyme harmonizes perfectly with black pepper. In Mediterranean cuisine, chopped herbs are added to vegetable and fish dishes.

Oregano as a spice is often used in European and Asian countries. In France, this spice is added to mushroom dishes and sausages. Also, the spice is often used to make sauces.

Which is better to choose

When choosing a particular spice, you should focus on taste and he alth benefits. Each of the spices has its own set of characteristics and is used in different areas.

Thyme has a high biological activity. It can be used as an antibacterial, antipyretic and anti-inflammatory agent. The spice is often used to combat diseases of the respiratory organs and destroy germs. A decoction of thyme can be used to thin sputum and rinse the mouth with dental pathologies.

Gastroenterologists advise using decoctions and infusions of thyme for flatulence and disorders of the intestinal microflora. Thyme also successfully copes with dermatological disorders, eliminates inflammation, and stimulates recovery processes.Grass is often added to sedative fees. In addition, it increases stamina and strengthens the immune system.

For oregano is characterized by its own scope. This herb also helps to stop inflammation and improves the functions of the digestive system. However, it is more used to normalize hormonal levels and metabolic processes. A decoction of oregano allows you to remove excess fluid from the body and stimulates the breakdown of fats.

Oregano and thyme are unique spices that have a pleasant taste and aroma. At the same time, herbs differ in appearance, smell and effect on the body.

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