Our oregano is grown in the mountains of Crete, it is considered wild and is related to the herbal marjoram, sometimes referred to as wild marjoram. It is perennial, although it is grown as an annual in colder climates, as it often does not survive the winter. Oregano is planted in early spring. It prefers a warm, relatively dry climate, but does well in other environments. Many subspecies and stems of oregano have been developed by humans for centuries for their unique flavors or other characteristics. Flavors range from spicy or astringent to more complex and sweet. Simple oregano sold in garden stores as Origanum vulgare may have a milder taste and larger, less dense leaves and is not considered the best for culinary use, with a less noticeable and intense flavor. It can pollinate other more advanced strains, but the offspring rarely have better quality. Oregano was used in herbal medicine even by the ancient Greeks. Hippocrates used it as an antiseptic. Possible medicinal uses of oregano include the treatment of respiratory disorders, gastrointestinal disorders, menstrual cramps and urinary tract disorders. With topical application it can help treat certain skin conditions, such as acne and dandruff, because it has 1) Antibacterial properties 2) Anti-inflammatory properties 3) Cancer protection