Don't even think they're very distant cousins. Oregano is that wonderful fragrant herb used in Greek food and in Herbs de Provence as well. Infact, I prefer the pungent and distinctive Greek Oregano if you can find it. I recall Shepherd's has it. The Mexican variety has a greener flavor and is less refined in my opinion.. Cilantro, Chinese Parsley and all the other names it 8s given is totally different. Smell and taste of each is terrific. Mary-Anne