Mexican oregano is an aromatic herb botanically classified Lippia graveolens. It is not related to Mediterranean oregano, which is in a different genus and family altogether. Mexican oregano is related to lemon verbena and is in the Verbenaceae family of flowering tropical plants.
 
Mexican oregano is used widely in Mexican and Central American cuisine and can be used both fresh and dry. The flavor is intense enough to hold up to the strong flavors of chiles, cumin, and paprika, where the Mediterranean variety may be masked. It pairs well with other herbs like basil, garlic, thyme, and parsley.