Mexican oregano, scientifically known as Lippia graveolens, is a herbaceous perennial plant native to Mexico, Central America, and Southwestern United States. This aromatic herb, often used in traditional Mexican cuisine, imparts a robust, earthy flavor with a hint of citrus and mild licorice undertones, enhancing the taste of various dishes like moles, salsas, soups, and stews.
Unlike Mediterranean oregano (Origanum vulgare), which belongs to the mint family, Mexican oregano is a member of the verbena family. Due to its distinctive taste, Mexican oregano is considered a key ingredient in authentic Latin American dishes and is increasingly gaining popularity among home cooks and consumers.