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Originally Posted by Jay-qu
When I was very ill last year with infectious mononucleosis (glandular fever) I was told to have fresh oregano tea, it was very pleasent tasting and soothes a sore throat very well. As for clearing up the virus  I cant say it did it all on its own, because I was on a very wide variety of things that probably all contributed their part to me getting better much faster than anticipated.  |
Oregano essential oil like many herb oils is anti-viral if you spray it on the virus. I find atea of Greek Oregano is great for sore throats.
There are dozens of different types of Oregano. The Herb society of America (California SF?) has a huge collection. Some are very pretty. I always wanted to see or buy one rare one called 'DIttany of Crete'(
http://www.herbnet.com/DITTANY%20OF%...0of%20Crete%22)
Mostly nurseries here sell crap they get from seed with very little flavour.
I have just discovered the true "Greek Oregano' growing in a Greek lady's garden next to where my daughter lives. She has strict instructions to acquire a plant!
This is a good article on oregano varieties.
http://scholar.google.com/scholar?hl...ano+anti+viral
(Jim Duke's comments on herbs are always backed up with lots of research, if not experience)
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Jim Duke says that oregano leads the way among the mints with an abundance of life-saving antioxidants. In addition, it contains 5 anti-arthritic compounds. Oregano packs a whopping 19 chemicals with antibacterial action, making it a top antiseptic, both internally and externally. In addition to the obvious disease fighting capability of this last group, soaking in oregano baths can help prevent the development of body odor. Although not often used as an expectorant, this herb contains at least 6 compounds which have this effect on humans. There are an additional 7 chemicals that are effective in lowering high blood pressure, which are contained in this surprisingly useful medicinal herb. Finally, it is suggested that high anti-oxidant intake can help maintain the immune function of HIV-positive patients. Dr. Duke says that, among the 60 or more herbs he's studied for anti-oxidant activity, Common Oregano and Self-Heal (Prunella vulgaris) have the most. (2,6)
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