Sicilian oregano is among the finest thanks to its intense, faintly bitter flavor. Oregano is known to have anti-inflammatory and disinfectant properties. The name derives from the Greek Origanos, composed of ?oros?, meaning ?mountain?, and ?ganos?, meaning ?beauty, joy?. The meaning, therefore, is mountain beauty. The Egyptians used it for the preservation of mummies and to massage the body after bathing, as well as to prepare ointments.

The Romans used it in cooking, but also in some medical recipes.