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For many people, it is difficult to think of a common kitchen
herb like oregano as a medical remedy, but oregano has been used as
a drug and herbal remedy since the time of the ancient Greeks and
Chinese. In China, doctors gave oregano to patients for relief of
fever, vomiting, diarrhea, jaundice, and itchy skin, while the
Greeks made compresses from the leaves to relieve sores and aching
muscles.
The active constituents in oregano are thymol and
carvacrol, which are also found in thyme. According to researchers,
both of the compounds help loosen phlegm in the lungs and relieve
spasms in the bronchial passages. Many commercial cough remedies,
including cough drops and skin rubs such as Vicks VapoRub, contain
thymol (a derivation of thyme).
Harvested during the
flowering season and dried on the field or under a roof, oregano has
bright purple flowers and an aromatic scent. Its medicinal value
lies in the oil found in its leaves.
Suggested
Benefits
Oregano is used as an herbal remedy for
respiratory problems such as coughs and bronchitis, even though
there is no scientific proof of its effectiveness on these
conditions. According to folk, oregano has also been used to relieve
bloating, gas, urinary tract problems, painful menstruation,
rheumatoid arthritis, swollen glands, and lack of
perspiration.
Preparation and
Dosage
You can make an oregano tea by pouring 1 cup
of boiling water over 1 heaping teaspoon of the dried herb, steeping
for 10 minutes, and then straining. The tea may be sweetened with
honey. To make an additive for the bath, pour 1 quart of water over
100 grams (31/3 ounces) of oregano, steep for 10 minutes, strain,
and add to a full bathtub.
Sweetened oregano tea may be taken
internally as needed. The unsweetened tea may be used as a gargle or
mouthwash.
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