Armstrong Memorial Research and Demonstration Farm

Greek Oregano—A Niche Crop for Iowa?

Authors: Linda L. Naeve (Iowa State University) , Raymond S. Hansen (Iowa State University) , Lester A. Wilson (Iowa State University) , Sabina Quint (Iowa State University) , Leah B. Riesselman (Iowa State University)

Abstract

The project was the result of a discussion with an Iowa-based company specializing in allnatural health care products for livestock and companion animals. They are interested in finding local sources of oregano oil because they currently import more than 8,000 lb annually from a European supplier. Greek oregano oil is used in animal care products and other pharmaceuticalsfor its carvacrol content, which has shown to have antimicrobial properties. Their product specifications require oil that contains a minimum of 65% carvacrol and 3% thymol.

Keywords: Food Science and Human Nutrition

How to Cite: Naeve, L. L. , Hansen, R. S. , Wilson, L. A. , Quint, S. & Riesselman, L. B. (2009) “Greek Oregano—A Niche Crop for Iowa?”, Iowa State University Research and Demonstration Farms Progress Reports. 2008(1).