Oregano

This wild oregano is hand picked in the garrigues of the South of France. Workers use a small sickle in keeping with traditional harvesting methods and organic practices. The herb stems are then gently dried in the sun. Because the harvest takes place while the plants are in bloom, you may find a few flowers mixed in with the herb leaves. 

There are over 20 different varieties of oregano (origanum vulgare) that can be found from Africa to Scotland in the Northern Hemisphere. The Greek word for oregano means "joy of the mountain." In ancient Greece, oregano was the symbol of youth and love and that symbolism lasted right up to the 17th century in France. While oregano is less pungent than thyme, its fragrance is a blend of thyme and mint-like scents. Oregano is used to round out the flavors of Italian dishes and tomato sauces. It is also wonderful as a finishing herb on summer vegetables, meats, and egg dishes.