Elements For A Healthier Life Magazine Issue 04 | August 2016 | Page 45

Research has shown oregano oil contains carvacrol and thymol; ingredients that are effective against E. coli, Listeria, Salmonella and specific strains of fungi. Oregano oil also contains a substance called rosmarinic acid; an antioxidant and antihistamine which may help reduce allergic reactions and fight free radical formation in your body.

For my personal needs, I have used Oil of Oregano to deal with a few medical concerns. The first was the ever- nagging sinus infection. Oil of Oregano is very strong and does not have a pleasant taste (some like it, not me) so I found some organic Oil of Oregano in gel capsules and was able to take them orally and voila’ - sinus infection gone! If you like the taste of the oregano oil, you can also use it in non-capsule form, adding it to tea or soups.

I took it every night at bedtime for two weeks, followed a Candida eating plan (low sugar Paleo for me). It can kill good gut bacteria, so make sure to use a good probiotic and take it at least four hours away from the Oil of Oregano). We tried it on a family member’s recurring warts on their hand/fingers topically for four weeks and they disappeared. We have successfully done this before with the over the counter wart treatments but within a few weeks the warts always came back. Not this time!

My favorite success story is a friend who was suffering from the dreaded toenail fungus. After trying several over the counter products with no luck, he went to the doctor and got a prescription This particular medication is extremely hard on the kidneys and can have serious lasting side effects. I suggested he to try Oil of Oregano after his daily shower and before bed each night. The fungus slowly began to dissipate and after three months (the time it takes for the toenail to grow out) it was gone!

Oil of Oregano is very strong and it can be harsh on sensitive skin and can be diluted with a carrier oil like olive, almond, or jojoba oil.

Discovering natural remedies to replace the old faithful commercial chemical ones has turned out to be fun and an adventure for me.

Disclaimer: Kimberley Andrews is not a doctor and cannot diagnose or prescribe treatment. The following article is based on her research and personal experience. It is not intended to treat or recommend any type of treatment. Consult a medical physician before trying any essential oils. You are solely responsible for your actions.

Measuring It

3 teaspoons = 1 tablespoon

4 tablespoons = 1/4 cup = 2 oz

1 cup = 1/2 pint = 8 oz

2 cups = 1 pint = 16 oz

4 cups = 1 quart = 1/4 gallon

16 cups = 4 quarts = 1 gallon