Botanical Overview
Origanum dictamnus, commonly known as Dittany of Crete, Dictamnus, or Cretan dittany, is a perennial herb belonging to the Lamiaceae family. Native to the Mediterranean region, particularly the island of Crete, this plant’s aerial parts, including leaves and flowers, are traditionally used in herbal medicine.
Energetics
Origanum dictamnus is characterized as warming and drying in nature with a bitter, pungent, and aromatic taste. It shows ascending and outward directionality and is generally tonifying, particularly influencing the qi according to traditional energetic concepts.
Primary Actions
- Antimicrobial
- Anti-inflammatory
- Astringent
- Digestive aid
- Emmenagogue
- Wound healing agent
Indications
Western
- Indigestion
- Gastric discomfort
- Cough
- Bronchitis
- Skin wounds and ulcers
- Menstrual irregularities
Syndromes
- Digestive weakness
- Respiratory infections
- Skin inflammation
- Amenorrhea
TCM
No traditional Chinese medicine indications documented.
Ayurveda
No specific Ayurveda indications documented.
Unani
- Stomach discomfort
- Respiratory ailments
- Menstrual complaints
Syndromes
- Gastric weakness
- Phlegmatic cough
- Dysmenorrhea
Constituents & Mechanisms
The plant contains volatile oils rich in carvacrol and thymol, flavonoids, tannins, and rosmarinic acid, contributing to its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and astringent properties.
Dosage & Preparations
- Infusion: 1-2 g dried herb per cup, taken 2-3 times daily
- Tincture: 1:5 in 45% ethanol, 2-5 mL 2-3 times daily
- Topical: poultice or infused oil for wound healing
Safety & Contraindications
Generally safe when used in culinary and medicinal amounts. Use cautiously in pregnancy due to emmenagogue action and avoid in individuals with allergies to Lamiaceae plants.
Astrological Correspondences
No verified planetary or elemental rulers have been documented for Origanum dictamnus in reputable sources.
Selected References
- Origanum dictamnus – Dittany of Crete, Plants For A Future
- Origanum Species and Antimicrobial Effects, Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects (2nd ed.)
- Community Herbal Monograph on Origanum dictamnus L., herba, European Medicines Agency