As the media regularly bombards the public with stories of harmful germs, bacteria and the ever dreaded “Superbug”, also known as M.R.S.A. more and more people are becoming ‘germaphobes’, excessively using anti-bacterial soap to the point of creating dry, cracked skin, which allows bacteria even more access to the internal body. People are lining up for the latest and greatest vaccine to prevent them from getting viruses, even as said viruses are mutating into newer, untouchable forms.
How did we get so far away from living at one with the natural world?
My theory is that we have been brain-washed to believe that, through scientific know-how and excessive cleanliness, we will ultimately control Nature by outwitting it and out-cleaning it. Unlike our ancestors we have become almost completely disconnected with the free and very effective medicines our planet provides. One of those potent healing agents is probably sitting in your spice rack right now… its name? Oregano!
Studies have shown that micro amounts of the compound Carvacrol, found in Oregano, is effective against MRSA. In fact, it was found to be more effective against this “superbug” than the over 18 different pharma drugs normally used to fight it. Nature’s antibiotics, which include anti-virals like oregano oil, have pungent, spicy or bitter flavors which our ancestors would traditionally use on meats to prevent spoilage. They were also applied topically as an “anti-inflammatory”. Herbs such thyme and Oregano have these pungent, spicy or bitter flavors and also have a long history of medicinal use in the mediterranean, so this isn’t new news!
Our diets also play a key role in preventing common colds, flu, and staph infections. By greatly reducing or eliminating the food source for the bacteria and viruses, which includes refined sugar, refined flours, and excess carbohydrates, we give our immune system a chance to fight on a level playing field, supported by powerful oregano and other herbal medicines. While they are not as debilitating to the healthy flora of our intestines, I still strongly recommend taking a probiotic on a daily basis, at least an hour away from the time Oregano is consumed.
According to my herbal instructor, Michael Tierra, a typical dose of one part 100% pure essential oil of oregano should be diluted with three parts of olive oil. This can be taken orally, and applied to the skin about 10 times a day (if you don’t mind smelling like yummy spaghetti sauce for a while). A child’s dose would be at least half that and can be mixed with juice or milk to dilute its potent taste. Undiluted Oregano oil may cause gastric upset so dilution is highly recommended. Personally, I find the oil quite strong tasting. Instead, I place the oil in empty vegetarian capsules (available at your local health food store) and consume them in this form. As with most herbal remedies two weeks on then two weeks off is best. This allows the body time to overcome the infection without becoming dependent on the herbal medicine. If you are pregnant please consult with a certified herbalist or Naturopath before taking oregano oil.
Sources: Michael Tierra, L.Ac, O.M.D.
