A True Herbal Antimicrobial - the Power of "True" Oregano Oil

Wednesday, July 28th 2004

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Medical researchers are currently investigating the antimicrobial action of Oregano and its oil. Comparing the effects of a number of plant oils, researchers at the Tennessee Agricultural Experiment Station in Knoxville, USA found that oregano oil offered the greatest protection against Staphylococcus aureus, E coli, Aspergillus niger and other harmful microorganisms, making Oregano an effective alternative to conventional antimicrobial additives. Modern herbalists recommend it for the common cold, fungal infections, psoriasis and warts

A recent British study found that two components of Oregano oil - cavacrol and thymol - inhibit Staph. bacteria. Research at Georgetown University Medical Center in Washington D.C. suggests that edible Oregano oil is more effective against Staph. aureus than these components alone. Harry G. Pruess M.D. at Georgetown has also found Oregano oil to be as effective against Candida albicans as conventional drugs.

Oregano oil contains 31 anti-inflammatory agents, 28 antioxidants and several COX-2 inhibitors (substances that fight inflammatory enzymes in osteoarthritis). Taking Oregano oil reduces inflammation and decreases platelet stickiness-without causing bleeding or ulcers.

The American Botanical Safety Handbook ranks Oregano as one of the safest plants. For fungal infections of the skin, Cass Ingram DO, recommends rubbing Oregano oil on the infected areas: "For athletes foot, apply the oil and immediately cover with a sock, as this helps hold the active ingredients against the skin." For warts treat directly with several drops of Oregano oil - open a Nature's Way Oregano Oil capsule and apply.

Nature's Way provides "true" standardized Oregano oil (Origanum vulgare hirtum) in vegetarian capsules with a guaranteed natural potency of 75-85% carvacrol. Nature's Way recommends taking just 1 capsule daily with food. Because Nature's Way "true" oregano provides the full natural potency of powerful carvacrol, no higher dose should be taken without consulting a qualified health professional.

Nature's Way also recommends taking Primadophilus capsules along with and after using "true" oregano oil. This will allow you to re-fortify and balance your system with friendly microflora.

Reproduced unabridged from the July - September 2004 issue of Health and Herbal News, with the kind permission of Health and Herbs International Ltd.

The following products are all useful for Yeast Problems:

Braggs Liquid Aminos
CandAid
Caprylac
Garlicin - Cholesterol Control
Kolorex Capsules
Kolorex Cream
Oregano Oil
Primadophilus
Tea Tree Oil
Cat's Claw

Related health information can be found here:

Antibiotic Use
Athletes Foot
Candida
Colds and Flu
Cystitis
FOS - Prebiotic Food
Fungal Infections
Ringworm
Skin Health
Yeast Infections

Related articles can be found here:

Benefits of Friendly Bacteria

Doctors recommend a multi-vitamin a day

Colostrum supports the immune system

The power of "true Oregano Oil"

Winning the battle with candida & chronic fatigue syndrome

If you need help or advice, you are welcome to email our naturopathic team with your health question.

Disclaimer: The health information presented here has been written for the New Zealand health consumer. It is of a general nature and is only intended to provide a summary of the subjects covered. The information is not intended to be comprehensive or to provide medical advice to you. While all care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information, no responsibility or liability is accepted, and no person should act in reliance on any statement contained in the information provided. All health ailments should be treated by a qualified health professional.

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