Caraway (Carum carvi) vs Oregano (Origanum vulgare)

Caraway (Carum carvi)

Oregano (Origanum vulgare)

About

Caraway is an aromatic annual herb growing to 2 feet with a ridged stem, feathery leaves, and umbels of white flowers in midsummer. Exploding capsules release two small narrow seeds. It grows wild in Europe, North Africa, and Asia, preferring sunny sites up to 6,600 feet above sea level. Cultivated in Europe, Russia, North Africa, and the United States, the seeds are harvested ripe in late summer. Caraway has been valued since ancient times for its digestive and respiratory benefits, and the seeds are commonly used in cooking.

Oregano (Origanum vulgare) is an upright perennial up to around 32 in (80 cm), bearing square red stems, elliptical leaves, and clusters of deep pink flowers. Strongly antiseptic and aromatic, oregano is useful for respiratory, digestive, and fungal infections, as well as being a culinary herb.

Safety & precautions

Do not use the essential oil internally except under professional supervision. Generally considered safe when used as directed.

Pregnancy: Avoid in large amounts due to possible uterine stimulation. Essential Oil: Toxic to the liver when taken internally; external use must be diluted. Skin Irritation: Potentially irritating topically.

Safety text above is printed in full and is never abbreviated. For each plant’s complete precautions, drug and food interactions and preparation notes, open its own page - both are free.