Vitamins in Oregano

Oregano adds zest to food dishes and health benefits to those who eat them. According to the California Academy of Health, oregano contains several antioxidant compounds, including flavonoids and essential oils, that combat conditions from colds to upset stomach. Oregano also offers nutritional benefits that include fiber, essential minerals and vitamins.

Vitamin K

The USDA National Nutrient Database reports that 1 tsp. of ground oregano contains 11.2 mcg of vitamin K. The recommended daily intake of vitamin K for adult women is 90 mcg; 120 mcg for adult men. Vitamin K is necessary for blood to clot properly. The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that without it, what may start as mild bleeding can turn into hemorrhaging. Vitamin K is also beneficial to healthy bones and is used in the treatment of liver disease.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A is actually an umbrella term, as there are several different compounds that fall under the name. The vitamin A in oregano is primarily composed of three carotenoids -- beta-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin. Vitamin A plays an important role in several different bodily functions. It boosts the immune system, fights viruses and infections, and promotes good eyesight, healthy bones, a healthy reproductive system and proper cell division, according to the National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements.

Vitamin C

One teaspoon of ground oregano contains a trace amount of vitamin C, according to the USDA, but 1/2 cup of oregano contains 2.3 mg. Vitamin C needs to be consumed daily, as it is a water-soluble vitamin that is excreted in urine. Its duties include the production of collagen, which maintains the integrity of skin, mucous membranes, bones and blood vessels. Vitamin C is also a chief antioxidant vitamin and may be able to help prevent heart disease, stroke, cancer, cataracts and gout, according to the Linus Pauling Institute.

Vitamin E

An antioxidant vitamin that works closely with vitamin C and vitamin K, vitamin E protects blood cells, organs and tissues from damage caused by outside stimuli or the aging process, according to MedlinePlus. Vitamin E may also help prevent heart disease. The USDA National Nutrient Database states that oregano contains 0.3 mg of vitamin E in a 1-tsp. serving.

B-Vitamins

The B-vitamins found in a teaspoon of crushed oregano include folate, pantothenic acid or B-5, thiamin or B-1, pyridoxine or B-6 and vitamin B-3, also known as niacin. The USDA reports that the highest concentration is folate, at 4 mcg in 1 tsp. of ground oregano. The primary function of B-vitamins is to convert food to energy by breaking down proteins and carbohydrates. The American Cancer Society explains that if you don't get enough B-vitamins, you may experience depression, muscle cramps, numbness in the arms and legs, hair loss, dry skin and respiratory infections. Children who lack B-vitamins may experience a slow growth rate.