Oregano could be used to treat inflammation

An active substance in the spice oregano may display potential as a treatment for inflammatory disorders such as osteoporosis and arteriosclerosis, according to a study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

Beta-caryophyllin (E-BCP), also found in basil, rosemary, cinnamon and black pepper, docks with cannabinoid-CB2 receptors and inhibits the cell's production of phlogogenic signal substances. Researchers at Bonn University in Germany fed the substance to mice with inflamed paws. Seven out of 10 of the animals later showed improvement of symptoms.

Many natural substances that affect the CB2 receptor, cannabis, for example, also affect CB1, which can produce intoxication. E-BCP is the first natural agent that only targets CB2, and has no such effect.