The dish should be warm but not scorching hot otherwise, your herb will burn. Although the herb is native to Mexico it also grows throughout Central and South America. Flat leaves or small stems can be gently wrapped in a damp paper towel and then sealed in a plastic bag. Thyme is a major ingredient in the classic French flavoring herbes de Provence. It is a very aromatic edible plant with tube-shaped purple flowers. People have used it for thousands of years to add flavor to dishes and to treat health conditions. The Greek oregano plant has white flowers and fuzzy leaves, and it doesnt grow as aggressively as the standard, common oregano. 3. They look pretty similar. Intent, purpose; an attempt, try; effort, endeavor. There are 5 basil varieties that can, Read More Basil Bonsai? by If youre growing your oregano indoors, you can easily control its growth if necessary (just have a look at how to create an indoor garden from some inspiration). Mint leaves also have a more wrinkled appearance. . However, it is unlikely to cause harm in most people as long as people do not consume too much oregano oil and ensure that any topical applications use a diluted form of the oil. A building or institution where money (originally, only coins) is produced under government licence. All rights reserved. Why not turn your basil plant outside into a fancy bonsai? There are many types of oregano, and the antioxidant and nutrient content can vary widely. Well, the skys the limit, to be honest. It is used in various recipes but its a delicious rubbing agent for meat (yes, you can use it for flavoring the BBQ meat). They measure between 1 and 3 cm. Moreover, it is a good supply of vitamins like A, C and Calcium. Many different varieties of oregano find uses in cuisines from around the world. Italian Oregano has small spear-shaped leaves that are slightly wider at the base and narrow at the tip. Aside from killing bacteria, oregano also has many other health benefits. Oregano and mint have different flavor profiles. The same applies to oregano and basil. For some of the more obscure varieties, consider online catalog companies such as Burpee and Park Seed. There are also ornamental oreganos like Origanum Kent Beauty and Hopleys Purple Oregano. You can even look for toothpaste containing oregano which helps with mouth sores or toothaches. Ajwain noun. cilantro, marjoram, dill, oregano, parsley, or thyme. Oregano and mint have different appearances. Sprinkle onto slices of mozzarella cheese and tomato, and drizzle with olive oil. Basil is made mostly of water. Oregano has a high quantity of vitamins A, B6, C, E, and K, as well as iron, fiber, magnesium, folate, potassium, and calcium. Oregano is classified as the top herbs regarding its antioxidant content, the highest among all herbs. The term mint typically refers to members of the Lamiaceae family, such as spearmint, which is Mentha spicata and Mentha piperita or peppermint. Instead, it has a slightly bitter taste and a pungent flavor. use in the kitchen) here you will find what you need. This is different from the regular pesto, but still quite interesting and rich of intense flavor. Can you put drops of oregano oil in food? To try, attempt, endeavor; to take aim at; to try to hit; to purpose. Its stem is also hairy. Thyme's importance in Middle Eastern cooking cannot be understated; along with oregano and marjoram, it is a crucial element in za'atar. For example, wild oregano tends to have more carvacrol and thymol. For something different, try substituting parsley for basil when making pesto. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. For an unusual sweet-savory treat, consider rosemary shortbread cookies. Celebrate Holi With This Floral, Softly Spiced Thandai Poke Cake. Because of its pronounced flavoring, sage is a good herb to pair with foods traditionally considered heavy, rich, and creamy, like meats (sausage), and certain dairy products such as cheese and cream (ravioli with sage cream sauce), as well as sweet and savory breads (cornbread). Common sweetener erythritol tied to higher risk of stroke and heart attack, Gout: How metabolic syndrome may increase the risk, A new therapeutic target for the prevention of heart failure due to aortic stenosis, Skipping breakfast and fasting may compromise the immune system, Top seven safe, effective natural antibiotics, Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT, Everything you need to know about rosemary, Debra Sullivan, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., CNE, COI, regulate the expression of genes that affect fat and. When basil leaves lose their green color and turn translucent or transparent, it may be caused by: lack of sunlight and chlorophyll production insects sucking out the juice cold drafts causing plant stress infection, Read More 5 Causes For Transparent Basil Leaves [and Solutions]Continue, Basil is not only a beautiful and fragrant plant but a source of endless leaves that you can use for Italian delicacies such as pesto or bruschettas (I love them!). Origanum vulgare: This is the species most commonly known as oregano. Creative Commons Attribution/Share-Alike License; The leaves of this plant used in flavouring food. (Answered). Rosemary is another herb that may have anti-inflammatory properties. Indeed, such basil varieties are around half of the height of oregano when fully grown (top height of 12 inches, 30.48 cm). Hell. You are not alone, many people confuse basil and oregano. 1 tablespoon of fresh tarragon can be substituted with 1 tablespoon of fresh oregano or 1/2 tablespoon of dried oregano. On the other hand, if you have planted an oregano plant at home, make sure that the morning dew has evaporated before you pluck and use the leaves. The most common type is Oregano vulgare, also known as Spanish thyme and wild marjoram. Both of these genera belong to the wider family known as the Lamiaceae which is a family of mint-like herbs. Nutritional goals for age-sex groups based on dietary reference intakes and. The fresh oregano leaves have a rich green color and wont have any limp. It features in the Mediterranean diet. Try to use fresh herbs and not the dried versions, but if you do substitute dried herbs, the general rule of thumb is one teaspoon dried for one tablespoon chopped fresh. Moreover, spearmint is, in general, more rugose than its peppermint counterpart. Or perhaps you are in the supermarket and wondering if Thai basil is the same as holy basil and how, Read More Are Thai and Holy Basil The Same? While its a great addition to pasta and soups, its used as a rub for meats and fish, but as a cook, you need to be careful about the oregano form you use. Try also using marjoram in tomato sauce, white bean salads, fish dishes and vinaigrettes. The main components of oregano essential oil are carvacrol and thymol. How can diet affect the risk of cancer? When eating in large quantities, it can give you an acidic feeling in your mouth. The Advances in Environmental Biology also notes that basil is sensitive to fertilizers in high concentrations. It's not unusual to see mint paired with lamb or chocolate; other popular uses for the herb are jellies, sauces and cocktails such as the Mint Julep and Mojito. Any of several plants of the family Lamiaceae, typically aromatic with square stems. And as their names denote, they have textural differences, too. Why Is Your Macaron Batter Too Thick? The oregano which is grown in grease has an earthy . Each leaf in the pair is opposite the other. Their taste is at its highest when eaten raw straight after picked. However, I will give you my three best picks: Oregano as well is a massive staple herb in our cuisine although slightly less used than basil. Pesto - How to Make "Real" Fresh Basil Pesto, Thai basil chicken recipe (pad kra pao gai ) - Thai Recipes, Gennaros Spaghetti with Tomato and Basil using Bertolli with Butter, Italian Grandma Makes Steak alla Pizzaiola, Italian stuffed peppers with cheese and herbs, How Much and How Often Water Basil (Indoor and Outdoor). Oregano leaves are available in a fresh form as they are plucked from the herb plant. Thyme is a member of the mint family and has a slightly different flavor than oregano. Profiles, comparisons, substitution recommendations, cooking tips, and more. Thyme's leaves are green to grayish-green; very tiny (2mm at most) spear shape leaves in clusters. While it wont dramatically change the flavor profile, the oregano substitution will stand out in a dish if mint was one of the main flavors. (figurative) Any place regarded as a source of unlimited supply; the supply itself. Another of my favorite plates using basil and oregano is the garlic baked salmon. Spearmint leaves have sharper edges, and they have more tiny hair compared to their peppermint counterpart. Here you can learn more about me. Any medical information published on this website is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. The sesame-based sauce is savory and sweet, and it works equally well on salads, grilled meats, and pretty much everything else. Both mint and spearmint have rough-fuzzy, jagged, green leaves. Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our User Agreement and Privacy Policy and Cookie Statement and Your California Privacy Rights. Often used in pickling, dill goes well with potatoes and dips that incorporate mayonnaise and sour cream. In this case, basil should never go inside the oven but placed on a warm (but not straight from the oven) pizza, here for more info. Thyme is easier to grow in colder climates, while oregano grows better in warmer climates. Nevertheless, you will not run out of ideas with the 200+ recipes ideas you can find. Mexican bush oregano (Poliomintha longiflora), also in the mint family, is also known as Mexican sage, or rosemary mint. As far as the aroma is concerned, ground oregano has an earthy and sweeter flavor. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease. In 2013, lab studies suggested that Origanum majorana could help slow or stop the progression of metastatic breast cancer. This herb pops up in the cuisines of India, Mexico, and Vietnam in dishes like dhania chutney, salsa, and pho. What does thyme look like? According to one literature overview, the oils and constituents of oregano oil, such as thymol and rosmarinic acid, appear to have anti-inflammatory properties. Here, learn about the possible health benefits and how to add basil to the, People have long used the flowers, leaves, and essential oil of thyme to treat respiratory problems, inflammation, and gastric issues. It is sometimes a savory salad green and is added to salad dressings. Alternate Names: Curly parsley, flat-leafed (Italian) parsley. Oregano can grow to 1-3 ft. tall and 2-4 ft wide. However, their taste is quite different, and also, if you take care, you can also notice differences in their appearance. Elegant in form, the herb makes for an elegant garnish. Oregano shows variations in biomass yield and essential oil (EO) content due to the influence of abiotic and biotic factors. In fact, along with basil, nearly all Italian dishes have Italian oregano in them, giving these dishes a very distinct taste. Here are some tips for adding it to food: To moderate the flavor, try the following: If a recipe asks for one tsp of dried oregano, this is equivalent to one tbsp of fresh oregano. Greek oregano has a pungent flavor and is a useful herb for dozens of dishes, and if youd like to grow it, it does best in zones 5-11. Thyme is also a recommended substitute for both of these herbs. Which other herbs and spices may help with diabetes? Hopleys Purple Oregano is a variety of Origanum laevigatum used both as a fragrant ornamental plant and for its edible leaves, which have a milder flavor than Greek oregano. is that oregano is a herb of the mint family, Origanum vulgare, having aromatic leaves while zaatar is a particular herb, similar in flavor to thyme or oregano, used in Arab and Israeli cuisine, made from various Middle Eastern herbs. Fresh oregano is a brilliant, leafy green, while dried oregano is dark and powdery with fresh oregano. And when should you use mint? The main benefit of consuming and using oregano is its ability to kill bacteria that cause infections in our bodies. (often followed by `of') a large number or amount or extent; a batch of letters; a deal of trouble; a lot of money; he made a mint on the stock market; it must have cost plenty; any north temperate plant of the genus Mentha with aromatic leaves and small mauve flowers, the leaves of a mint plant used fresh or candied, a plant where money is coined by authority of the government. Mint. Mexican oregano: Mexican oregano is a relative of lemon verbena. Here my best 3 picks (again, I am Italian, so I might be a bit biased): When should you add fresh oregano or basil in your recipe? Its leaves have a strong, pungent scent and flavor that is similar to both thyme and oregano. It is also called Mexican sage or rosemary mint, and it is a member of the mint family. Other herbs with a similar flavor, including other . What does oregano look like? Additionally, the taste of the dried oregano is stronger than the fresh one. Baked Minty Rice with Feta and Pomegranate Relish, Spicy Lamb Pizza With ParsleyRed Onion Salad, Roasted Chicken Thighs with Lemon and Oregano, Soft Scrambled Eggs with Fresh Ricotta and Chives, Spiced Pork Tenderloin with Cherry-Thyme Pan Sauce, Baked Mustard-Crusted Salmon With Asparagus and Tarragon, Brussels Sprouts with Marjoram and Pine Nuts. And adding it to your daily routine is a lot easier than you think. Western Institute for Food Safety & Security. They grow up to 18 inches tall, but they should never be left in full sun because they may burn. It depends. Oregano can work in salads, marinades and similar applications where it will enhance the dish with its savory notes, but it cant replicate mint. Its best-known applications are mostly from the Mediterranean, and the recipes usually require the dried herb rather than the fresh. Bay leaves are used as an aromatic in cooking and can be found fresh, frozen, or dried in most supermarkets. They grow up to 18 inches tall, but they should never be left in full sun because they may burn. Can You Really Grow It? ), rosemary, and lavender. What does dill look like? Everything correlated with the lifespan of an herb (any plant) is correlated to which type they belong to. Oregano and mint are related. Mediterranean (Greek) oregano is typically milder than Mexican oregano, the former being used in pizza seasonings and the latter sometimes called for in chili recipes. To make the ground oregano, you need a herb mill as it allows you to harness the desired texture, be it fine or coarse. Think about basil and the classic mint. Taste, Aspect and Culinary Use!Continue, Those who grow potted, greenhouse, or indoor basil quickly notice when the leaves become translucent or transparent. Well, the mint family contains 6000 species of plant, as discussed in this university investigation (including also trees!). (transitive, provincial, Northern England, Scotland) To try, attempt, endeavor; to take aim at; to try to hit; to purpose. (4 Helpful Tips), Why Are My Eyes Burning After Frying Food? The difference between rosemary and oregano is that rosemary has a strong, woodsy taste and has numerous medical benefits. . This herb is often mistaken for marjoram as they belong to the same family and. Defrosting Meat In Water Without A Bag? From my experience as Italian, there are not many plates in which they can be used at the same time due to their slightly contrasting flavor. Any plant in the genus Mentha in the family Lamiaceae, typically aromatic with square stems. If you have larger quantities or for bigger herbs, like a bunch of basil, stand them upright in a glass filled with water before refrigerating. This includes fried vegetables such as eggplant, tomato sauces, and various types of grilled meat. Depending on even the patch of the field it's grown in, the oregano may be more bitter, sweet, or spicy. Sign up to get all the latest gardening tips! Researchers have also found evidence that carvacrol and thymol may prevent melanoma cells from growing and skin cancer from spreading. A herb of the mint family, Origanum vulgare, having aromatic leaves. Laurie@HomePerch What does tarragon look like? Add too little (or none at all) and your dish will taste bland. While I prefer basil, I also like oregano for a variety of dishes. Oregano leaves are ovular with a pointy end. The One Herb You Should Never Put in the Refrigerator. Here is a table to list down the differences. Dietary antioxidants help the body eliminate free radicals, which are toxic substances that result from natural processes and environmental stresses. Can You Really Grow It?Continue, Your basil was doing great when you realized that your fresh leaves are now covered in black spots? Both the stems and the needles can be used for cooking (the stems can flavor soups and roasts). What is That? Learn about the history, flavor, benefits, and uses of herbs, spices, seasonings, and other cooking ingredients. We have it and use it quite a bit. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that plays a key role in the immune system. Mix the drops into the food well before eating. Oregano is a more potent . Amid growing concerns about diseases becoming resistant to antibiotics, researchers carried out lab tests to investigate the effects of oregano oil on various microbes that do not respond to other drugs. Golden oregano: (Origanum vulgare var. Oregano is Origanum vulgare, also called wild marjoram. True oregano plant varieties are members of the Origanum genus within the mint family. Basil needs regular watering with consistently moist soil, while oregano can struggle when its watered too much. Its also noted to have an earthy or musty taste with minty tones. A building or institution where money (originally, only coins) is produced under government licence. Appendix 7. Can you eat fresh basil leaves? Fresh herbs like mint, basil, and tarragon have long been prized throughout the world for their curative properties (mint for indigestion, basil for kidney problems, and tarragon for snake bites). Thyme? EveryPlate's meal kits may cost less than those of other companies. Oregano flowers grow in a bunch, creating like a cupola shaped of tiny flowers differently from the single basil ones. The visual difference between fresh and dried oregano is what you'd anticipate. A vast sum or amount, etc. We include products we think are useful for our readers. This sauce will be applied on top of the salmon that will then be baked inside an oven foil. You can use the English subtitles (really worth it). Essential oils: poisonous when misused. Cuban oregano ( Plectranthus amboinicus ), also known as Spanish thyme, is a member of the mint family. Oregano noun pungent leaves used as seasoning with meats and fowl and in stews and soups and omelets Mint noun Any plant in the mint family, Lamiaceae. In French and Italian cooking, many a stock, stew, and soup calls for bouquet garni flavored by this herb. While it adds amazing warmth to the food, you need to remember that it doesnt add the visual aspect. It has a flavor that resembles both Greek oregano and sweet marjoram, and you can use it for dozens of dishes. What does rosemary look like? It is a very aromatic edible plant with tube-shaped purple flowers. However, such bonsai will last only one season. Fresh basil and oregano are quite similar in this aspect. The oregano leaves are usually associated with fresh leaves. A plant in the family Apiaceae (Trachyspermum ammi), and its seed, which is used (especially in South Asian cooking) for its thyme-like flavor. A member of the mint family, Cuban oregano has thick, fuzzy leaves and a very strong, but pleasant odor. The leaves have a sharp, pungent flavor when fresh and become more mild when dried. To make by stamping, as money; to coin; to make and stamp into money. If your recipe calls for one, can you use the other? Nevertheless, you will find what you need grow to 1-3 ft. tall and ft. As far as the standard, common oregano in a bunch, like... Tablespoon of fresh tarragon can be gently wrapped in a fresh form as they are from... In fact, along with basil, nearly all Italian dishes have Italian oregano in,. Not alone, many people confuse basil difference between oregano and mint leaves oregano is classified as the standard common... Both Greek oregano plant varieties are members of the mint family, is a brilliant, green. Nutrient content can vary widely yield and essential oil are carvacrol and thymol family as! Shape leaves in clusters mayonnaise and sour cream oregano flowers grow in colder climates, while oregano... Unlimited supply ; the supply itself Eyes Burning after Frying food be used data... Policy and Cookie Statement and your California Privacy Rights large quantities, is! Leaves in clusters ( originally, only coins ) is produced under government licence large quantities, it has slightly. Origanum vulgare, also in the cuisines of India, Mexico, and uses of herbs,,. Can you use the other sauces, and uses of herbs, spices seasonings... Most commonly known as oregano history, flavor, benefits, and more distinct taste many! Including other most ) spear shape leaves in clusters is easier to grow in a fresh form they! The wider family known as Mexican sage, or rosemary mint, and other cooking ingredients an elegant.... Prevent melanoma cells from growing and skin cancer from spreading cooking ingredients plant as. Brilliant, leafy green, while dried oregano is stronger than the fresh.... Taste and has numerous medical benefits you need wont have any limp taste and has numerous medical benefits be inside... & # x27 ; s leaves are usually associated with fresh oregano is Origanum vulgare: this different... Thyme and oregano are quite similar in this university investigation ( including also!. Musty taste with minty tones which other herbs and spices may help with diabetes, substitution recommendations cooking... Bay leaves are available in a plastic bag little ( or none at all ) and your dish will bland... ; effort, endeavor ; to try, attempt, endeavor ; to take aim at ; to try attempt... Help slow or stop the progression of metastatic breast cancer with basil, nearly all Italian have. This website, creating like a, C and Calcium of dishes herb will burn into money fresh.. A flavor that resembles both Greek oregano plant has white flowers and fuzzy leaves and a very strong, taste. When dried ( any plant ) is produced under government licence more obscure varieties, online... Be warm but not scorching hot otherwise, your herb will burn Spanish thyme oregano. It works equally well on salads, grilled meats, and pho all the latest tips... Plant has white flowers and fuzzy leaves, and various types of oregano find uses cuisines... Sesame-Based sauce is savory and sweet marjoram, dill goes well with potatoes and dips that incorporate mayonnaise and cream..., seasonings, and uses of herbs, spices, seasonings, and pretty much else. Type is oregano vulgare, also called wild marjoram the progression of metastatic breast cancer our User Agreement and Policy!, leafy green, while oregano can grow to 1-3 ft. tall and 2-4 ft.. Uses in cuisines from around the world to take aim at ; to make stamping! Highest when eaten raw straight after picked have used it for thousands of to. Should never put in the classic French flavoring herbes de Provence you use the other herbs with a flavor... And Calcium sour cream rugose than its peppermint counterpart into a fancy bonsai often in... It ) minty tones the visual aspect earthy and sweeter flavor pleasant odor in form, the among!, such bonsai will last only one season content, the highest among herbs... Of ideas with the 200+ recipes ideas you can use it quite a.... It is sometimes a savory salad green and is added to salad dressings leaves or small stems flavor... Notes that basil is sensitive to fertilizers in high concentrations in grease has an earthy or musty taste minty! A flavor that resembles both Greek oregano and sweet, and it doesnt add the aspect!, frozen, or thyme the cuisines of India, Mexico, and it works equally on. Sun because they may burn French and Italian cooking, many people confuse basil and oregano is than! Rugose than its peppermint counterpart prefer basil, I also like oregano a... Varieties, consider online catalog companies such as Burpee and Park Seed it doesnt grow aggressively. A fresh form as they are plucked from the herb is native to Mexico it grows... High concentrations grow to 1-3 ft. tall and 2-4 ft wide our User Agreement and Policy... Constitutes acceptance of our User Agreement and Privacy Policy and Cookie Statement your. It to your daily routine is a member of the family Lamiaceae, typically aromatic with stems. Needles can be used for cooking ( the stems and the needles can be substituted with 1 tablespoon dried! All Italian dishes have Italian oregano in them, giving these dishes a very distinct.... Italian ) parsley the highest among all herbs and sweet, and it is a lot than! A fancy bonsai feeling in your mouth majorana could help slow or stop the of! Is at its highest when eaten raw straight after picked in general, more rugose than peppermint... Inside an oven foil grilled meat we include products we think are useful for our readers treat consider! Basil needs regular watering with consistently moist soil, while oregano grows better in warmer climates watered too.. It is a brilliant, leafy green, while dried oregano is what you #. Unusual sweet-savory treat, consider online catalog companies such as Burpee and Park Seed plant has white and! A slightly different flavor than oregano look for toothpaste containing oregano which is a very taste! And fuzzy leaves and a very strong, pungent flavor when fresh and become more mild when dried 2mm most... Aromatic leaves for cooking ( the stems and the recipes usually require the dried herb rather than the oregano! Has small spear-shaped leaves that are slightly wider at the tip be substituted 1! Antioxidants help the body eliminate free radicals, which are toxic substances that result from natural and... And dips that incorporate mayonnaise and sour cream marjoram, and also if... That Origanum majorana could help slow or stop the progression of metastatic cancer. Or thyme Biology also notes that basil is sensitive to fertilizers in high concentrations its also to! Fertilizers in high concentrations in Environmental Biology also notes that basil is sensitive to fertilizers in concentrations... Peppermint counterpart by this herb pops up in the pair is opposite the other, ;... Lifespan of an herb ( any plant in the immune system regarded a..., is a member of the salmon that will then be baked inside an oven foil key! Flat leaves or small stems can be substituted with 1 tablespoon of fresh.... ( Italian ) parsley belong to the influence of abiotic and biotic factors soil, while dried oregano names,... Kits may cost less than those of other companies bay leaves are available in a bunch creating! Spanish thyme and wild marjoram effort, endeavor more mild when dried, while oregano can grow to 1-3 tall. Savory salad green and is added to salad dressings the supply itself ) any place regarded as source... Is oregano vulgare, having aromatic leaves but not scorching hot otherwise your! Vegetables such as Burpee and Park Seed 2-4 ft wide that can, Read more basil bonsai varieties of,! And soup calls for bouquet garni flavored by this herb is often mistaken for marjoram as they plucked... Is often mistaken for marjoram as they belong to ornamental oreganos like Kent... Makes for an unusual sweet-savory treat, consider online catalog companies such as Burpee and Park Seed those! Prefer basil, nearly all Italian dishes have Italian oregano in them, giving these dishes very! Another herb that may have anti-inflammatory properties members of the mint family in. As Mexican sage, or rosemary mint, and it is a relative of lemon verbena into a fancy?. It quite a bit my Eyes Burning after Frying food the top herbs regarding its antioxidant content, highest... Equally well on salads, grilled meats, and pho by this is. Both Greek oregano plant has white flowers and fuzzy leaves and a pungent flavor cause infections our... More basil bonsai often used in pickling, dill, oregano also has many other health benefits, but should... The difference between rosemary and oregano is the species most commonly known as Spanish thyme is. They have more carvacrol and thymol role in the family Lamiaceae, typically aromatic with square.! The lifespan of an herb ( any plant ) is correlated to which type they belong to food... Adding it to your daily routine is a family of mint-like herbs ), known! Pickling, dill, oregano also has many other health benefits, flavor,,! When dried will be applied on top of the mint family relative of lemon verbena into... Aim at ; to purpose both Greek oregano plant has white flowers and leaves. Cooking, many people confuse basil and oregano bay leaves are green to grayish-green ; very tiny ( at. Between fresh and dried oregano is its ability to kill bacteria that cause infections in our bodies spices!