Essential Oils Study - Oregano Oil Against Pathogens by rabbitears ..... Ask Microbe Detectives
Date: 6/3/2008 3:55:55 PM ( 16 years ago ago)
Hits: 13,781
URL: https://www.curezone.org/forums/fm.asp?i=1187003
by Bill Sardi
Oil pressed from oregano leaves that contain the active ingredient carvacrol may be an effective treatment against sometimes drug-resistant bacterial infection. Georgetown University researchers have found that oil of oregano appears to reduce infection "as effectively as traditional antibiotics."
Oil of oregano at relatively low doses was found to be efficacious against Staphylococcus bacteria and was comparable in its germ-killing properties to antibiotic drugs such as streptomycin, pencillin and vancomycin. [Science Daily 10/11/2001] The findings were presented by Harry G. Preuss, MD, professor of physicology and biophysics, Georgetown University, at the American College of Nutrition'a annual meeting in Orlando, Florida. The oregano oil was obtained from North American Herb and Spice Company, a Waukeegan, Illinois company that sponsored the study and markets their non-prescr*iption products in retail stores un the trade names Oregamax and Oregacyn.
Earlier this year researchers at the Department of Food Science at the University of Tennessee reported that, among various plant oils, oil of oregano exhibited the greatest antibacterial action against common pathogenic germs such as Staph, E. coli and Listeria. [Journal Food Protection, Volume 64, July 2001] Last year British researchers reported oregano oil had antibacterial activity against 25 different bacteria. [Journal Applied Microbiology, Volume 88, February 2000] A clinical study in Italy has shown that oil of oregano can be used to treat intestinal parasites. [Phytotherapy Research, Volume 14, May 2000]
The body of positive evidence for oregano oil as a major antibiotic is growing. Among 52 plant oils tested, oregano was considered to have "pharmacologic" action against common bugs such as Candida albicans (yeast), E. coli, Salmonella enterica and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. [Journal Applied Microbiology, volume 86, June 1999] Pseudomonas is a type of germ that is getting more difficult to treat as it has developed strains that are resistant against antibiotic drugs.
Of recent interest are reports showing that carvacrol from oil of oregano kills spores, such as Bacillus cereus and Bacillus anthracis (anthrax). [Archives Microbiology, Volume 174, October 2000; Quarterly Review Biology, Volume 73, March 1998] Bacillus cereus is considered to be from the same species as Bacillus anthracis (anthrax). [Applied Environmental Microbiology, Volume 66, June 2000] In tests of antibiotics and antiseptics, Bacillus cereus is often used in studies in lieu of the anthrax strain. [University of Michigan News & Information Service, Sept. 23, 1998]
Oil of oregano is not to be confused with common oregano in the kitchen spice cupboard, which is usually marjoram (Origanum majorana or O. vulgare) rather than true oregano (Origanum vulgare).
The growing problem of antibiotic resistance has health authorities concerned. Already various germs are showing resistance to vancomycin, particularly to intestinal bacteria (Enterococcal species) among hospitalized patients. [Southern Medical Journal, Volume 94, August 2001] Vancomycin is considered to be the most potent antibiotic available and is withheld from use as a drug of last resort. Vancomycin costs about $16 per pill versus about $1 for the purest-strength oregano oil. Drug resistance does not develop against naturally-occuring antibiotics such as garlic and oil of oregano.
October 13, 2001
Bill Sardi is a health journalist at www.askbillsardi.com.
******
http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0NAH/is_7_32/ai_91563260
OREGANO IS A WOODY SHRUB NATIVE to the Mediterranean. The oil is steam-distilled from fresh or dried leaves.
How It Works
Carvacrol is the primary component in oregano oil. Research suggests that oxygen molecules in it react with water in your body to create heat that kills germs by dehydrating them.
Evidence
Preliminary research for oregano oil supports its use for infections. Several test-tube studies have shown that oregano oil can inhibit or destroy many strains of bacteria, fungi, and parasites. A handful of human and animal studies, sponsored by an oregano oil manufacturer, have found similar results. Anecdotal evidence supports its use for athlete's foot.
In an abstract in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition that appeared last year, 18 mice were injected with the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus. Three of the six mice that received oregano oil orally survived the infection, while two of the six mice that received the antibiotic vancomycin did. All six of the mice that received no treatment died within three days.
The same researchers also tested oregano oil's effects on mice who had been injected with the yeast Candida albicans. In the study, published last year in the Journal of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, all six of the mice fed oregano oil survived more than 30 days with no sign of Candida infection, while all six mice that were fed just olive oil died within seven days.
A small study published in Phytotherapy Research in 2000 examined the effects of oregano oil on n adults with the intestinal parasite Blastocystis hominis, which can cause diarrhea, anal itching, and weight loss. Participants took 600 mg of oregano oil daily for six weeks. Eight were completely free of the parasite, and the remaining three participants had a reduction in symptoms.
How to Take It
For an infection in your gastrointestinal tract (whether bacterial, fungal, or parasitic), take 0.3 ml of enteric-coated oregano oil capsules three times a day before meals, says Jennifer Brett, N.D., a naturopathic physician and chair of the botanical medicine department at the University of Bridgeport College of Naturopathic Medicine in Connecticut. The enteric coating ensures that the capsule won't release the oil before it reaches your intestines.
To treat bacterial and fungal infections that occur in other parts of your body, place I drop of the pure oil under your tongue twice a day, suggests Brett.
For fungal infections on your skin and nails, dilute I teaspoon oregano oil in 2 teaspoons olive oil and apply with a cotton swab to the affected area up to three times a day, she says.
Oregano oil is potent, so you should not exceed these doses. Also, discontinue use within three weeks, Brett advises.
Caveats
Oregano oil is safe for low-dose, short-term use. High doses cause headaches and nausea and may be toxic to the liver. Avoid it if you're pregnant.
Health Claims
Oregano oil (Origanum vulgare) contains natural compounds that combat bacterial, fungal, and parasitic infections. It can be used for ailments ranging from athlete's foot to food poisoning.
The Bottom Line
Though more human studies need to be done, oregano oil has shown promise as a treatment for bacterial, fungal, and parasitic infections. It's a powerful remedy that should be used carefully.
Stephen Camelio is a freelance writer in New York City.
COPYRIGHT 2002 Weider Publications
COPYRIGHT 2002 Gale Group
******
http://www.oreganoworld.com/uses.html
Here’s a member of the mint family that’s simply loaded with antiseptic compounds. Oregano is useful as a hot tea (inhale the vapors as you drink) or in a massage lotion. You can add a few drops of the Essential Oil to any skin lotion or to vegetable oil. (Page 391)
The Green Pharmacy
By James A. Duke
“The Essential Oil of Oregano is the most powerful plant-derived antiseptic known.
William Harrison Martindale
Publisher Of The Extra Pharmacopoeia
British Pharmacology Reference Book
"Antibiotic resistance, the ability of germs to become impervious to modern antibiotic drugs, has been called one of the most challenging health threats of our modern era. Yet researchers report that Carvacrol, an ingredient found in Oil of Oregano, kills off bacteria without causing antibiotic resistance."
“Microbiology Letters”
Federation Of European Microbiological Societies
January 2004
British researchers reported Oregano Oil had antibacterial activity against 25 different bacteria.
“Journal Of Applied Microbiology”
Volume 88
February 2000
What we found was that certain spices added to foods would be useful in preventing and even killing organisms like E. Coli that can cause disease," said Dr. F. Ann Draughon, a UT microbiologist who is co-director of the UT Food Safety Initiative.…The study found that Oil of Oregano was the most effective at killing all the pathogens.
“Tennessee Today”
Current News From The University Of Tennessee
June 14, 1999
"Researchers at the Department of Food Science at the University of Tennessee reported that, among various plant oils, Oil of Oregano exhibited the greatest antibacterial action against common pathogenic germs such as Staph, E. coli and Listeria."
“Journal Of Food Protection”
Volume 64
July 2001
"Because the essential oils are so sweet smelling, it might be easy to suppose that their value is essentially one of charm. That would be a mistake. The Essential Oil of Oregano, for example, is twenty-six times more powerful as an antiseptic than Phenol, which is the active ingredient in many cleansing materials." (Page 8)
The Complete Book Of Essential Oils And Aromatherapy
by Valerie Ann Worwood
"General (Effects): The Essential Oil, which contains carvacrol, is antimicrobial in vitro. (Page 609)
Physicians’ Desk Reference For Herbal Medicines
by Joerg Gruenwald (Editor)
"Wild Oregano, which is quite different than the variety on most kitchen spice racks, has over 50 antibacterial compounds."
“The London Times”
May 8, 2001
"Researchers from the University of Thessaloniki in Greece discovered that Oregano was highly bactericidal (it killed bacteria and sterilized septic water) at 1/4000 dilution."
“Journal Of Agricultural Food Chemistry”
American Chemical Society
Volume 44-1996
A First Aid Kit In A Bottle
“Egyptians valued Oregano for its ability to disinfect wounds and speed the healing process…. After Aristotle observed that tortoises ate snakes and then ate Oregano to avoid dying, he recommended it as an antidote for poisoning….
“Oregano Oil is one of the strongest antiseptic and antiviral essential oils. It boosts immunity and is especially effective against allergies, Candidiasis, chronic fatigue syndrome, and fungal infections. It stimulates sluggish lymphatic circulation. During convalescence or in states of general weakness, the body can be strengthened and energized by Oregano. Its antibacterial action makes Oregano ideal for spraying in a sickroom to cleanse or sterilize it and to prevent the spread of infection.
“Respiratory ailments as asthma, bronchitis, colds, flu, sore throat, and even whooping cough respond well to Oregano Oil’s ability to fight bacterial and viral infections, relieve congestion, loosen and release phlegm, and soothe coughs, while it eases aches and pains and reduces muscle spasms. Oregano alleviates the pain and inflammation of joint and spinal problems such as arthritis, backache, bursitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, rheumatism, and sciatica. It is often used in a pack or poultice to treat sprains, swelling, and stiffness.
“Oregano is helpful for all digestive disorders, particularly those resulting from nervousness. It eases indigestion that results from eating too rapidly. It calms the stomach, can stimulate appetite, relieves diarrhea, and can even cure hiccups. Oregano can soothe headaches, migraines, and nervous tension. Its antiseptic abilities help to fight infection of earaches. Some people report success in preventing or minimizing motion sickness by drinking Oregano herb tea. Others recommend chewing fresh Oregano leaves to provide temporary relief from painful toothache.
“The anti-inflammatory action of Oregano Oil helps to heal wounds and skin infections, as well as to relieve skin disorders such as dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, and seborrhea. Because it has strong antifungal and antiseptic properties, it can fight fungal infections of the skin such as athlete’s foot and jock itch. Massage diluted Oregano Oil into the fingernails to fight fungal infections there. Applied topically, it helps reduce chronic skin infections. Oregano is a powerful insect repellant; it may help to alleviate skin parasites, such as lice, because of its antiparasitic activity.
“Oregano can often stimulate the flow of menstruation when used in a sitz bath or when massaged on the abdomen. It also relieves the pain of menstrual cramps and helps to overcome insomnia.” (Pages 103,104)
Aromatherapy PA
By Roberta Wilson
“Medicinal Actions & Uses: Oregano helps to settle flatulence and stimulates the flow of bile. Strongly antiseptic, may be taken to treat respiratory conditions such as coughs, tonsillitis, bronchitis and asthma. It is also considered to be a useful promote of menstruation. The diluted oil can be applied externally to toothache or painful joints.” (Page 240)
Encyclopedia Of Medicinal Plants
By Andrew Chevallier
“Anticancer Effects: Antimutagenic and anticarcenogenic properties have been attributed to rosmaric acid isolated from rosemary and Oregano.” (Page 609)
Physicians’ Desk Reference For Herbal Medicines
by Joerg Gruenwald (Editor)
“Oregano has seven…compounds that lower blood pressure….” (Page 256)
The Green Pharmacy
by James A. Duke
Eradicates Viral And Fungal Infections “Mother Nature has provided us with a powerful antibiotic in Oregano Oil. Unlike synthetic antibiotics that are powerless against viruses and funguses, Oregano Oil is effective against these pathogens too.”
Dr. Michelle Schoffro Cook
“The Cochrane Times”
June 8, 2005
“Wild Oregano Oil: Powerful antifungal agent that has the ability to destroy even resistant forms of fungi.” (Page 393)
Prescr*iption For Herbal Healing
by Phyllis A. Balch
“Oil of Oregano is an excellent supplement. It's beneficial for viral conditions, bacterial and fungal problems and can be used both preventatively and during an infection to help clear up the problem.”
Marni Ross
Naturopathic Physician
Toronto, Canada
“Constituents: Oregano contains a volatile oil (comprising carvacrol, thymol, betabisabolene, Caryophyllene, linalool, and borneol), tannins, resin, sterols, and flavanoids. Both carvacrol and thymol are antibacterial and antifungal.” (Page 240)
Encyclopedia Of Medicinal Plants
By Andrew Chevallier
“A recent study compared the anti-Candida effect of Oregano Oil to that of Caprylic Acid. The results indicated that Oregano Oil is over 100 times more potent than Caprylic Acid against Candida.”
“Journal Of Applied Nutrition”
Volume 47
1995
Destroys Intestinal Parasites “In a study by the National Institute of Pediatrics in Mexico, scientists found that Oregano was effective at killing Giardia, a parasite that causes abdominal distress.”
Dr. Michelle Schoffro Cook
“The Cochrane Times”
June 8, 2005
“A clinical study in Italy has shown that Oil of Oregano can be used to treat intestinal parasites.”
“Phytotherapy Research”
Volume 14
May 2000
A Potent Antioxidant “Researchers Call Herbs Rich Source Of Healthy Antioxidants; Oregano Ranks Highest”
“Science Daily”
January 8, 2002
“Studies are accumulating that the ‘pizza herb’, Oregano, is a powerful antioxidant…. In a test of nearly 100 plants in the mint family, of which Oregano is a member, the pizza herb was the one with the greatest antioxidant activity.” (Page 59)
The Green Pharmacy
by James A. Duke
“Antioxidant Effects: The Essential Oil of Oregano has been demonstrated to be a potent antioxidant.” (Page 609)
Physicians’ Desk Reference For Herbal Medicines
by Joerg Gruenwald (Editor)
“Researchers at the U.S. Department of Agriculture have determined that herbs are higher in antioxidant levels than fruits, vegetables and even spices such as garlic…. Oregano has 42 times more antioxidant activity than apples, 30 times more than potatoes, 12 times more than oranges and 4 times more than blueberries…. Oregano had 3 to 30 times higher antioxidant activity than other herbs studied."
“Journal Of Agricultural And Food Chemistry”
American Chemical Society
November 2001
No Harmful Side Effects “No significant adverse reactions have been associated with the use of Oregano in culinary or medicinal concentrations. The FDA has placed Oregano on its list of substances “Generally Recognized As Safe” (GRAS) for food consumption.” (Page 477)
The American Pharmaceutical Association
Practical Guide To Natural Medicines
by Andrea Peirce
“No health hazards or side effects are known in conjunction with the proper administration of designated therapeutic dosages.” (Page 610)
Physicians’ Desk Reference For Herbal Medicines
by Joerg Gruenwald (Editor)
<< Return to the standard message view
fetched in 0.01 sec, referred by http://www.curezone.org/forums/fmp.asp?i=1187003