Studies are accumulating that the pizza herb, oregano (Origanum vulgare), is a powerful antioxidant. Like other antioxidants contained in fruits and vegetables, the compounds in oregano may help prevent the cell damage caused by free radicals – highly unstable oxygen molecules that steal electrons from other molecules they encounter.
Free radical reactions are probably involved in inflammation, degenerative arthritis and the aging process in general. And evidence is accumulating that antioxidants may help relieve osteo- and rheumatoid arthritis.
In a test of nearly 100 plants in the mint family, of which oregano is a member, the pizzaherb was the one that had the greatest total antioxidant activity. Research has shown the antioxidant activity of oregano and other medicinal mints is due in large part to rosmarinic acid, a compound with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antiviral properties. Considering how highly it ranks for this kind of protection, oregano is definitely worth adding to your pizza, or any other food, if you have arthritis.