The Evidence Based Diet: Fresh Oregano Pesto Might Keep Colon Cancer Away
By Robert Latkany, MDEdited by Sarah Varney
Images by Barbara Lock, MD
June 28, 2009
Many of us know oregano mostly as a key ingredient in pasta sauces or pizza. But oregano is a star in many orbits. in 2005, The International Herb Association’s named oregano “Herb of the Year”. (We’re guessing the trophy is a gilded cooking spoon.)
But it doesn’t just taste great; it may also help keep your colon safe from cancer. The extract from oregano has been shown to kill specific colon cancer cells according to Savini et al. This is in addition to the well-documented anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of the mighty herb. It is likely that the Mediterranean Diet's health-giving properties are due in great part to oregano.
Yes, Origanum vulgare is an anti-oxidant standout. Zheng and colleague found that greek oregano ranked highest in antioxidant capacity among 27 culinary herbs. And oregano may prevent atherosclerosis or hardening of the arteries, according to Mueller et al.
Fresh oregano is relatively easy to grow (this author is not known for his green thumb but there is now a massive planting of oregano growing in his backyard), and is an attractive plant as well. It is a great option for a perennial garden, offering a beautiful white to purple flower according to James Adams author of Landscaping with Herbs.
The Evidence Based Diet: Oregano Pesto
Ingredients
2 ½ cups of fresh oregano leaves
½ cup olive oil
½ cup of pine nuts
¾ cup of water
Salt and pepper to taste
1 clove of garlic
1 lb spaghetti
1. Boil water in a large pot with a pinch of sea salt
2. Blend the oregano, oil, garlic, pine nuts and water in a blender and set aside.
3. Add the spaghetti to the boiling water and cook for 7-8 minutes or to al dente.
4. Drain the water and return spaghetti to the pot and add the pesto, mix, and serve.
Enjoy!
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Reply #1 on : Sat November 14, 2009, 05:58:07
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