Monday, June 14, 2010

Oil of Oregano

I have been sick for almost five weeks now.  The strangest part is that I don't often get sick... no colds, no flus... This time, some wretched disease grabbed me by the throat and has been hanging on.

In these five weeks, I was (incorrectly) told I may have developed allergies and prescribed a puffer, tried cold medications, teas, you name it, to get rid of this thing.  Then, yesterday, after hearing about it for a while, I went out and bought Oil of Oregano.  It tastes awful.  It leaves this slick oily coating in my mouth.  And, it sort of burns on the way down.  But, after one day of taking it, I have noticed a significant improvement in my coughing - especially at night which is when it was the worst.

So I'd like to share some information with you about what is thought to be a potent infection fighter, which you can buy at most grocery and natural food stores for about $15-$30.  *Consult your physician or naturopath first to make sure it's okay for you to take. 

Source | Home Remedies Web

Oil of Oregano is a natural substance that is extracted from wild oregano plants, and two key compounds found in it are carvacrol and thymol. Studies have shown that both of these compounds have significant effects on harmful microorganisms that cause many illnesses in humans. 

(Note: This is not the same as common (cooking) oregano which is typically Origanum Marjoram. Oil of Oregano is derived from Origanum Vulgare.)

Some benefits:
  • Destroying organisms that contribute to skin infections and digestive problems.
  • Strengthening the immune system.
  • Increasing joint and muscle flexibility.
  • Improving respiratory health.

Read more on the above site about how Oil of Oregano can help with skin infections, digestive issues,  sinus congestion, colds and sore throats.

However, as with anything, you have to be careful.  Oregano oil may reduce the body's ability to absorb iron. Therefore, it is recommended that any regular use be combined with regular consumption of iron supplements. For this reason, pregnant women are advised not to take Oil of Oregano regularly.

A few more sites with information:
http://www.oiloforegano.com/
http://www.thestar.com/article/176197

If you've ever taken it, successfully or not, let me know.  I'd love to hear any other opinions and experiences.

3 comments:

  1. Mike used to take it like water. I kid. Anytime I feel the onset of something, I take it instead of echinacea. I now think echinacea is a big joke. This stuff actually works.
    -Dana

    ReplyDelete
  2. Nice - glad to hear you're a supporter as well! I heard it's much better to take the actual extract form of echinacea... rather than the much weaker pill form, which probably has a few other additives, anyway.

    ReplyDelete
  3. I'm going to have to look into this stuff... after a week this cold is still hanging in there and I don't really want to break your five week record. Plus I am growing tired of the Neo Citron taste. Blech.

    Though I might just ask June about it this weekend instead trying to see my doc. Seems like a lot less work.

    Good post!

    ReplyDelete

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