oregano Archives - Amazing Health Advances

Oregano Benefits for Inflammation, Infections & More

AHA Publisher — Mon, 22 Feb 2021 08:00:36 +0000

Christine Ruggeri, CHHC via Dr. Axe – Although many people think of it as the herb that’s sprinkled on top of pizza or into pasta sauces, oregano has been considered a precious plant for over 2,500 years in folk medicines around the world. It’s one of the top herbs for healing because of its antioxidant and antibacterial activity. With powerful antioxidants and components that help fight bacterial and viral infections, this common herb holds important space in both your kitchen and medicine cabinets. Although oregano oil is much more concentrated and has greater therapeutic potential, cooking with oregano has its health benefits, too. What Is Oregano? Oregano (Origanum vulgare) is an herb that’s a member of the mint(Lamiaceae) family. It has been used for thousands of years in folk medicines to treat upset stomach, respiratory complaints and bacterial infections. Oregano leaves have a strong aroma and slightly bitter, earthy flavor. The spice was used in ancient Egypt and Greece to flavor meats, fish and vegetables. The herb got its name from the Greeks, where “oregano” means “Joy of the Mountain.” Types/Varieties There are several types of oregano offered across the globe. Common oregano is known as “origanum vulgare” and is also called “wild marjoram.” The varieties that are most popular for cooking are Greek oregano and Italian oregano. The Greek variety is more pungent, while the Italian type has a sweeter aroma. Some other varieties include: Syrian oregano Golden oregano Curan oregano Mexican oregano There are also varieties that are not consumed but used for decorative purposes. This includes pilgrim oregano, amethyst falls oregano and hop-flower oregano. These types have colorful flowers and grow easily in gardens. Benefits The leaves and dried versions are excellent sources of antioxidants and antibacterial compounds. Most studies involving the herb are done with its essential oils, which is a more concentrated form and has greater efficacy for promoting overall wellness and healthy aging. Research shows that this herb has the following benefits: 1. Antioxidant Powerhouse Oregano is jam-packed with health-promoting antioxidants, including limonene, thymol, carvacrol and terpinene. In fact, it’s one of the top antioxidant foods with an oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) score of 159,277. (That’s high!) There are numerous benefits of eating foods high in antioxidants. They help slow the effects of aging by reducing free radical damage, which can contribute to many health issues and premature aging. Antioxidants positively impact your skin, eyes, heart, brain and cells as well. Studies on oregano extracts show that the herb’s antioxidant effects are likely attributed to carvacrol and thymol, two components that have therapeutic and preventative purposes in folk medicine. 2. Has Antibacterial Properties Several studies indicate that oil of oregano has antibacterial effects against a range of bacterial strains. There’s even research supporting the use of the oil as an alternative to harmful antibiotics for a number of health concerns. One study found that oil of oregano possesses the highest antibacterial activity against E. coli, suggesting that the extract can be used to promote gastrointestinal health and prevent food poisoning. What does this mean about the oregano leaves you add to your pasta sauce? They contain two important compounds, thymol and carvacrol, which help fight bacterial infections. That said, using the more concentrated essential oil is far more effective for killing bacteria. 3. Reduces Inflammation Cooking with this health-promoting herb, whether it’s dry or fresh, may help reduce inflammation. Studies on the herb’s essential oils show that it contains powerful anti-inflammatory properties. This is due to the plant’s antioxidant activity, which helps improve chronic inflammation and a long list of diseases, including cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. Oregano products are used to relieve inflammatory conditions including allergies and rheumatoid arthritis. Herbal extracts are also used topically to reduce issues like insect bites, psoriasis, acne and muscle pain. 4. Fights Viral Infections Carvacrol, one of the main components in oregano, has been shown to possess antiviral properties. This enables oregano oil to delay viral disease progression and improve resistance to infections. Again, these studies use the herb’s essential oil, which is far more concentrated than consuming fresh or dried leaves. However, they does highlight the beneficial compounds that are present in the plant. Nutrition One teaspoon (about a gram) of oregano leaves contains approximately: 3.1 calories 1.9 carbohydrates 0.1 grams protein 0.1 grams fat 0.4 grams fiber 6.2 micrograms vitamin K (8 percent DV) On teaspoon (about 2 grams) of dried oregano contains approximately: 5.4 calories 3.4 carbohydrates 0.2 grams protein 0.2 grams fat 0.7 grams fiber 10.9 micrograms vitamin K (14 percent DV) 0.8 milligrams iron (4 percent DV) 0.1 milligrams manganese (4 percent DV) 27.6 milligrams calcium (3 percent DV) How to Add to Diet (Recipes) It’s easy to add oregano spice and leaves into your everyday diet. It’s commonly added to Mediterranean dishes and serves as a versatile spice for sauces, stuffings, soups and salads. It can be sprinkled on homemade pizzas, soups and doughs too. Need some recipe ideas that incorporate this health-promoting herb? Try these: Homemade Chicken Marsala with ghee and Paleo flour Zesty Turkey Salad with beans, walnuts and fresh herbs Olive Tapenade Recipe with olives, fresh herbs and sun-dried tomatoes Need some tips on optimizing freshness when cooking with this herb? Chopping or crushing the leaves provides more flavor, and add it in at the end of the cooking process for the best results. Using fresh leaves gives you more flavor too. Thankfully, the herb is super easy to grow at home and even thrives in a pot on your windowsill. Risks and Side Effects Consuming dried or fresh oregano is safe in normal amounts, when added to recipes. People who are allergic to herbs within the Lamiaceae family, like mint and basil, should be cautious when eating it for the first time. The oil is much more concentrated and should only be consumed for short periods of time, at a maximum of two weeks. It should also be diluted with water or coconut oil when taken internally. The essential oil should also be diluted when applied topically to fight infections or reduce inflammation. Conclusion Oregano has been used for thousands of years for therapeutic and culinary purposes. The herb has powerful antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects. Although the herb’s essential oils are more potent and provide greater therapeutic benefits, adding dried or fresh leaves to recipes is an excellent way to consume the plant’s antioxidants. It’s easy to cook with the herb. It goes well in any Mediterranean recipe, including sauces, fish and meat dishes, soups and salads. To read the original article click here. For more articles from Dr. Axe click here.

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12 Flu Natural Remedies, Including Best Foods

AHA Publisher — Mon, 02 Nov 2020 08:00:10 +0000

Dr. Josh Axe, DC, DMN, CNS – Each season, the flu affects about 8 percent of the United States population, on average. And the numbers may be even higher for asymptomatic people. Children are most likely to become sick from the flu, or influenza, but people with a depressed immune system or nutrient deficiencies may also be more prone to catching the virus. Stress, lack of sleep and exposure to toxins can worsen flu symptoms. Fortunately, there are flu natural remedies that can help boost your immune system to fight off the flu or relieve symptoms. What Is the Flu? The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. These viruses spread through the air from person to person. Signs and symptoms of flu may include: Fever Cough Runny nose Muscle or body aches Sore throat Headaches Fatigue Vomiting Diarrhea The CDC reports that although anyone can get the flu young children are affected by the virus most often. Pregnant women and adults 65 years old and older are at greater risk of developing serious flu-related complications because of their suppressed immune systems. Flu vs. the Common Cold The flu and the common cold are both respiratory illnesses with similar symptoms, but they are caused by different viruses. Sometimes, it can be difficult to tell the difference between the flu and a cold, but usually influenza symptoms are much more intense. With a cold, it’s common to experience mild cold symptoms, like a runny nose and congestion. The flu is more likely to cause body aches, fever and headache, and it may cause serious health problems, like bacterial infections, pneumonia and even hospitalization. 12 Natural Remedies So, how do you get rid of the flu naturally? Home remedies for the flu include vitamins C and D, herbal supplements, essential oils, probiotics and eating healthy. Try these flu natural remedies to help relieve your symptoms: 1. Vitamin C (1,000 mg 3–4x daily) Vitamin C helps with immune function and boosts white blood cells. Research shows that vitamin C has shortened the duration of colds and can decrease the number of colds in physically active people. Take 1,000 milligrams of vitamin C daily to ward off a cold or the flu and up to 4,000 milligrams daily when you are experiencing symptoms. For the most dietary vitamin C, eat whole fruits and vegetables. 2. Vitamin D3 (2,000 IU daily) Vitamin D is produced in the body by sunlight and regulates the expression of over 2,000 genes, including those of the immune system. Unfortunately, up to 90 percent of people are deficient in vitamin D. Recent research suggeststhat low vitamin D levels are linked to higher rates of cold, flu and respiratory infections. Many physicians believe that current recommended daily amounts of vitamin D are far too low, and that 2,000 units rather than 200–400 units per day is a better choice. You can also order home testing kits to test your vitamin D levels. 3. Echinacea (1,000 mg 2–3x daily) This herb can help your body fight off infections, but it is best to take it at the first sign of illness. An extract of echinacea was tested in a double-blind, randomized, controlled trial in 2013. Researchers found that the echinacea effectively treated respiratory tract infections in the short- and long-term, and didn’t cause the same resistance as a popular flu medication, oseltamivir, often causes when treating this illness. A randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled study conducted in 2000 indicates that drinking five to six cups of echinacea tea per day as soon as upper respiratory symptoms developed, and reducing the number to one cup of tea over a 5-day period, was effective for relieving cold and flu symptoms. Echinacea acts as an anti-inflammatory, which can help reduce bronchial symptoms of cold and flu. It directly attacks yeast and other kinds of fungus. Different preparations have different concentrations of echinacea. Some common preparations and dosages include: Tablets containing 6.78 milligrams of echinacea extract, two tablets three times a day 900 milligrams of echinacea root tincture daily Five to six cups of echinacea tea on the first day of symptoms, and then 1 cup a day thereafter 4. Elderberry (10 mL daily) It is believed that this herb can deactivate the flu virus and naturally boost immunity. The flowers and berries of elderberry are said to boost the immunity, treat flu and relieve sinus pain. Elderberry does seem to attack flu viruses and reduce bronchial inflammation. A preliminary study found that when 15 milliliters of elderberry syrup was taken four times daily for a five-day period, it relieved symptoms of influenza an average of four days earlier than those taking a placebo. 5. Oregano Oil (500 mg 2x daily) Oregano oil has a powerful antiviral effect. I like to use oregano oil to fight viral infections and although there aren’t studies evaluating the efficacy of oregano on influenza specifically, there is research that indicates the powerful antiviral properties of the essential oil. 6. Zinc (50–100 mg daily) Zinc has shown to support immune function because of its antiviral effects. It works best when taken at the first sign of illness. Zinc may lessen the symptoms of the cold virus, but excessive amounts aren’t good for you. Zinc pills and sprays do not seem to be effective. Take 50–100 milligrams of zinc daily to ward off or treat cold and flu symptoms. 7. Brewer’s Yeast This popular supplement contains B vitamins, chromium and protein. Research in Science Direct describes that it’s used for cold, flu and other respiratory tract infections. In fish, brewer’s yeast stimulates immunity by positively influence the microbiome, which may also improve digestive function. Research conducted at the University of Michigan Medical Center found that a yeast supplement was able to reduce cold and flu symptom severity, and lead to significantly shorter duration of symptoms in patients. 8. Essential Oils for Flu Rubbing peppermint and frankincense essential oil into the neck and bottoms of the feet can naturally support the body’s natural defenses, as indicated in studies. I also like to use clove oil to protect my body against infection and speed recovery from the flu. Research confirms that clove oil has antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. 9. Chiropractic Care for Flu Prevention During the 1918 flu epidemic, flu patients that received chiropractic care survived much more readily than those that didn’t. This is because chiropractic care focuses on the health of your nervous system, which can help to boost your immunity. A 2011 study showed some promise for chiropractic adjustments and their potential to help boost immunity. 10. Probiotics Restoring the beneficial bacteria in your gut can help boost your immune system considerably. A lab study conducted in 2017 showed that a particular strain of probiotics, Bacillus bacteria, demonstrated anti-influenza activity, with complete inhibition of the influenza virus. A 2017 systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials evaluated the effects of probiotics and prebiotics on the immune response to the influenza vaccination. The results indicate that participants who took probiotics and prebiotics showed significant improvements in the H1N1 and H3N2 strain protection rates. This suggests that taking probiotics may elevate your immunity. 11. Get Fresh Air Indoor winter environments can be a source of concentrated toxins and germs. The dry air we inhale as we heat our homes during the winter makes airways more reactive and sensitive to viruses. An added bonus to time spent outdoors in the winter is the extra bit of sunlight you receive. 12. Get Enough Rest Studies highlight that sleep and immunity and linked. Sleep affects the body’s defense system and enhancing sleep while fighting an infection can promote your natural defense mechanisms and improve infection outcome. Plus, a stimulation of the immune system triggers a natural inflammatory response, which can induce an increase in sleep duration and intensity. Basically, your body needs the extra sleep to do its work. 13. Stay Hydrated Reports actually show that respiratory infections may not directly lead to dehydration, contrary to popular belief. However, even mild dehydration can cause fatigue, headaches and weakness. Sometimes when we are sick and congested, we are less likely to ingest enough fluids. Fluid helps your body to flush bacteria and viruses from your system. Drink approximately half your body weight in ounces daily of either spring water or reverse osmosis filtered water. Warm water can also be soothing to your throat. Herbal teas, like green and black teas, are potent immune system boosters and antioxidants. Try to drink at least eight ounces every two hours. 14. Top Foods for Flu Recovery Also, these are the best foods to consume while you recover from the flu. Light, easy-to-digest foods: Include soups with bone broth, cooked vegetables or herbal teas to help with digestion. Don’t force yourself to eat. Water: Adequate hydration is the key to flushing out the virus from your system. Hot water with lemon, honey, and cinnamon: Honey and cinnamon helps prevent mucus buildup and keeps you hydrated. Ginger: Make a ginger tea and add raw honey. Garlic and onions: Both of these vegetable help boost immune function. Conventional Treatment Conventional flu treatment includes antiviral drugs and vaccines. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends injectable influenza vaccines for everyone over 6 months and older. Vaccine injections are available as an inactivated influenza vaccine (IIV) and a recombinant influenza vaccine (RIV). There are a few things you should know about the flu vaccine ahead of time. For one thing, it doesn’t work right away, but takes about two weeks before it is effective. This is why the CDC recommends getting the vaccine in the fall, before the flu season is at its worst. Another thing you need to know is that you can still get the flu even though you’ve been vaccinated. The virus that’s used to make the vaccine does not always “match” the virus that is circulating the community. The effectiveness of the flu vaccine varies from year to year because flu viruses are constantly changing, which is called antigenic drift, and experts do their best to pick the viruses to include in the vaccine many months before flu season begins. It’s not possible to be 100 percent sure which flu viruses will be most prominent in any given season, so the protection of a flu vaccine is not guaranteed. Reports indicate that the 2019-2020 flu vaccine was 45 percent effective against overall seasonal influenza A and B viruses. There are also side effects from getting the flu shot, such as soreness or swelling at the site of the injection, body aches and fever. The CDC recently made some additions to the 2007 guidelines on nonpharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) to protect oneself and others against the flu. Some of the recommendations for personal NPIs include: Staying home when you’re sick. Staying home if you’ve been exposed to a sick family or household member. Covering your coughs and sneezes with a tissue. Washing your hands or using hand sanitizer. Covering your nose or mouth with a mask or cloth if you are sick and have to be around others at a community gathering of people. Implementing these behaviors can help stop the spread of flu. Risks and Side Effects If you or a loved one experience complications from the flu, such as pneumonia, or have a high fever that won’t go down, contact your healthcare provider right away. If you catch the flu and you have a chronic condition, such as asthma, or you are pregnant, see your doctor. Also keep in mind that some symptoms of flu and Covid-19 are similar, which makes it hard to tell the difference between the two viruses. For this reason, it’s a good idea to call your healthcare provider and tell him or her about your symptoms over the phone. You will then be advised about what to do next. Most people recover from the flu within a few days to less than 2 weeks. If you’re still experiencing symptoms after 2 weeks, contact your healthcare provider. There is the risk of developing complications or a co-infection from the virus...

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Blackened Salmon Recipe with Creamy Avocado Dressing

AHA Publisher — Sat, 27 Jun 2020 07:00:49 +0000

Dr. Axe – Many of us don’t get enough fish in our diet. The average American eats about four ounces a week, which is half of what’s recommended for most adults. (1) One complaint I hear often is that fish is too tricky to cook — or that it doesn’t taste great. Wait until you try this blackened salmon recipe! Wild-caught salmon is one of my favorite fish to eat. It’s loaded with nutrients that are hard to come by elsewhere. This blackened salmon recipe is ready in under 30 minutes. You likely already have everything necessary on-hand, and, best of all, it’s fool-proof. Whether you think you like fish or not, you’ll want to at least try this blackened salmon. What Goes Into Blackening Seasoning? What makes this salmon so simple to prepare — and so delicious — is the blackened seasoning. One question I get often is: Is blackening seasoning the same as Cajun seasoning? Blackening seasoning and Cajun seasoning are quite similar. Most of the herbs and spices in this recipe are Cajun-style. So, how do you make blackened seasoning? I’ve done that by adding smoked paprika, which gives this salmon that “charred” flavor you’d get if you were using an outdoor grill, and what makes it not just Cajun-style, but blackened as well. Is blackened season spicy? Only if you want it to be! The smoked paprika in this recipe adds a little kick, but not too much. You can add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper if you want to increase the heat here. Do You Eat the Skin of Salmon? This is something people wonder about often. The answer is, it depends. I prefer removing the skin unless I am grilling the salmon. If that’s the case, leaving the skin on can result in extra texture thanks to the skin becoming nice and crispy. Another question I get asked often is do you cook salmon with the skin on or off? Again, since I usually prefer eating my salmon skin-free, I remove it. How do you remove skin from salmon? It’s actually much easier than people think and the more you do it, the better at it you’ll become. Start by placing the salmon fillet on a cutting board. I find it helpful to sprinkle the tail end of the fish in salt to get a firm grip. Next, while holding the tail end, use a sharp knife to cut between the fish and the skin. You want to be cutting in the opposite direction from where the tail is. Keep holding the end and continue cutting along the length of the salmon. Then simply remove and toss the skin. Blackened Salmon Nutrition Facts Once the fish is skinned, it’s ready for cooking. Here’s what you’ll get in one serving of this blackened salmon recipe without dressing: 484 calories 47.16 grams protein 28.91 grams fat 8.52 grams carbohydrates 1.33 grams sugar 4.739 grams omega-3 fatty acids (325 percent DV) 7.21 micrograms vitamin B12 (300 percent DV) 231.9 micrograms vitamin K (258 percent DV) 3,724 IUs vitamin A (160 percent DV) 2 milligrams vitamin B6 (155 percent DV) 18.32 milligrams vitamin B3 (131 percent DV) 579 IUs vitamin D (97 percent DV) 0.93 milligrams vitamin B2 (84 percent DV) 3.89 milligrams vitamin B5 (78 percent DV) 45.8 milligrams vitamin C (61 percent DV) 0.57 milligrams vitamin B1 (52 percent DV) As you can see, this blackened salmon recipe really packs a nutritional punch! INGREDIENTS: 2 tablespoons avocado oil 4 small salmon filets, about 3–4 ounces each 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon onion powder 1 teaspoon dried oregano ½ teaspoon thyme ½ teaspoon smoked paprika ¼ teaspoon cayenne 1 teaspoon sea salt 1 teaspoon black pepper 4 cups massaged kale 1 lime, quartered for garnishing Creamy avocado cilantro lime dressing How to Make Blackened Salmon I’ve served this fish as a blackened salmon salad nestled on kale, but you can serve this salmon any way you’d like. You could use this recipe for blackened salmon tacos, for instance, or serve this with sweet potato fries instead of kale. Once you try the recipe as-written, I’m sure you’ll be looking for as many ways as possible to incorporate it into your menu. DIRECTIONS: In a large pan over medium heat, warm oil. While pan is heating, combine, garlic, onion, oregano, thyme, paprika, cayenne, salt and pepper in a small bowl. Mix until well-combined. Coat salmon evenly with seasonings. With tongs, place the salmon filets in the heated oil. Cover and fry each side for about 5–10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees F. Serve over massaged kale and top with creamy avocado cilantro lime dressing, or a dressing of your choice. Enjoy! This article has been modified. To read the original article click here. For more articles from Dr. Axe click here.

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Study Reveals New Spices That Reduce Inflammation

AHA Publisher — Mon, 15 Jun 2020 07:00:07 +0000

Lori Clarkson via NaturalHealth365 – Move over turmeric lattes, a study at Penn State has revealed a specific blend of spices that will also reduce inflammation. The research was published in the Journal of Nutrition. They experimented with a mix of spices and the effect they have on inflammation in the human body. The results were astonishing. Without changing the participant’s diet, a specific mix of 13 spices showed a significant reduction in inflammation markers. The subjects continued to eat foods high in saturated fats and carbohydrates with positive results. Massive Reductions in Inflammation Markers in Overweight Participants Researchers studied overweight men between the ages of 40 and 65 with at least one cardiovascular issue. They separated the participants into three groups, one group had no spices added to their meal, another had two grams of spices added to their meals, and the final group had six grams of spices added to their meals. Six grams is as small as one teaspoon. The Penn State researchers tested the results by taking blood samples. They cultured the white blood cells and stimulated them to incite an inflammatory response. There was a reduction in inflammatory cytokines in the group with six grams of spices added to their meals. While eating a whole food diet without processed carbohydrates and (toxic) saturated fats can seem like a logical choice to reduce inflammation – the researchers didn’t change the participant’s diet at all. The meals provided were high in carbohydrates and high in saturated fats. The researchers were aware that those with a poor diet who are prone to obesity also have higher levels of inflammation. However, research has not revealed whether these acute inflammatory spikes brought on by poor diet choices contribute to chronic inflammation, yet. There is one thing from this study that is clear. Without changing anything else, adding a variety of spices to your diet doesn’t just taste good, but it will help to reduce the risk of inflammation too. This Is the Specific Spice Mix That the Researchers Used The lead researcher, Connie Rogers, stated, “Ultimately the gold standard would be to get people eating more healthfully and to lose weight and exercise, but those behavioral changes are difficult and take time.” They haven’t discovered which specific spice had the most significant impact of reducing inflammatory markers, but they did share the mix of spices that produced this astonishing result. The spice mix was; basil, black pepper, bay leaf, cinnamon, parsley, red pepper, rosemary, cumin, oregano, ginger, turmeric, parsley, and thyme. While turmeric and ginger are well known for their ability to reduce inflammation, it’s reassuring to see the other herbs and spices on the list for those who prefer the taste of the other spices on the list. It’s clear that these spices contribute to remarkable changes in those of the poorest health. To further validate these results, the researchers anticipate continuing this research with a broader population, and separating the spices to see which ones are the most effective. We, at NaturalHealth365, will keep our eyes peeled for more exciting advances in this field. More Natural Ways to Reduce Inflammation Adding spice blends to your diet is an effective way to reduce inflammation. While most will agree that spices will make a meal tastier, they’re not for everyone. If the known anti-inflammatory spices don’t tempt your palate, try these tips today. Reduce negative emotions. Negative emotions are also a known contributor to inflammation. A good diet, exercise, and stress-reduction activities such as meditation can help you manage your mood. Increase your vitamin C intake. Vitamin C is also a known natural remedy to “calm the fire” from within. In addition, increase your intake of citrus fruits, green leafy vegetables, tomatoes, sweet potatoes, and peppers. This study chose to undertake an extensive experiment on inflammation in individuals with poor health. By adding spices to your diet, managing your emotions, and increasing your antioxidant intake, you can make a remarkable impact on your health today. Sources for this article include: Sciencedaily.com, Healthline.com, News.psu.edu To read the original article click here.

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Energizing Green Basil Smoothie and 4 Herbs to Grow This Summer

AHA Publisher — Sun, 31 May 2020 07:00:07 +0000

Dr. Don Colbert – Whether you’re planting an entire garden, a few containers, or even just a couple small pots in a sunny window, you can make a difference in your health and cuisine this summer. Herbs are easy to grow and have potent nutrients. Here are 4 herbs to grow this summer and 1 delicious energizing green basil smoothie recipe. Why take the time to grow your own herbs? First, it is much more cost-effective to grow than buy fresh herbs. Second, herbs contain amazing antioxidants and phytochemicals that impact your health – and you can add them every day. Third, food and drink recipes are taken to the next level of flavor with fresh herbs. This summer, get your hands dirty, enjoy all the health benefits of gardening, and delight your taste buds and whole-body health with these herbs. Energizing Green Basil Keto Smoothie 8 ounces brewed green tea OR 1/2 teaspoon matcha green tea powder 1/2 cup coconut milk (canned, full fat) 1/2-1 cup fresh basil leaves 1 lemon, zested & juiced 1/4 cup blueberries (or any kind berries) Erythritol or stevia, to taste Water and Ice as needed for desired consistency (water needed Optional: 1 scoop MCT Oil Powder Optional: 1 scoop hydrolyzed collagen Optional: 1 scoop green fermented supremefood Instructions: Place all ingredients except erythritol/stevia, water, and ice in a blender. Process until smooth. Add sweetener to taste. Add ice and process until at desired consistency. Enjoy the energy! Nutrition Info without optional supplemental powders for an Energizing Snack: 115 calories, 10 gm fat, 4 gm net carbs (6 grams carbs, 2 gm fiber), 2 gm protein (78% calories from fat) Nutrition Info WITH optional supplemental powders for an Energizing Meal: 299 calories, 23 gm fat, 4 gm net carbs (11 grams carbs, 7 gm fiber), 19 gm protein (69% calories from fat) Energizing Green Smoothie Nutrients How is this smoothie energizing? It’s no secret that caffeine, even small amounts, can boost energy. It boosts your brain’s function, your physical strength and reaction time, and your perception of fatigue. In this smoothie, the caffeine comes from green tea. Green tea is packed with amazing nutrients and antioxidants. They can: Inhibit the growth of cancer cells in lab studies. High consumption of the drink has been associated with a 90% reduced risk of breast cancer in women. Repair and protecting cells, especially in the brain. In fact, in mice induced with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease, it helped to protect brain cells from dying, as well as ‘rescuing’ already damaged neurons in the brain, a phenomenon called neurorescue or neurorestoration. Provide antibacterial properties that promote oral health. Exhibit protective effects on eye cels for up to 20 hours after consumption. This has led many experts to believe it may have a role in reducing diseases of the eye and glaucoma. Help our bodies oxidize and burn fat. Multiple studies have shown an increase in metabolic rates, weight loss, decreased waistline and fat loss with consistent green tea ingestion. Read all about the amazing benefits of green tea here. 4 Herbs to Grow This Summer Beyond green tea, this smoothie gains great nutrition and flavor from basil. It’s one of our four herbs to grow this summer. While many other herbs are also great for health, try these to start: 1. Basil for Great Health First, basil is a superstar of nutrition among herbs. It: Reduces inflammation and oxidative stress: Basil’s flavonoids, especially orientin and vicenin, are phytonutrients that protect cell structures from radiation and oxygen-based damage (free radicals/oxidative stress). And eugenol, one of basil’s volatile oils, works to block the inflammatory activity of an enzyme (cyclooxygenase) in the body. Improves blood flow: Basil’s vitamin A and magnesium can improve blood flow. Leafy greens like basil keep your artery walls strong and clear of plagues. Then, the magnesium in basil prompts muscles and blood vessels to relax, which improves blood flow out of the heart and throughout the body. All of your organs and tissues, including skin need good blood flow to function their best. 2. Oregano, a Potent Antibacterial Agent and Medicinal Oregano is actually part of the mint family. It can also impact health in many ways. It: Has antibacterial properties. Its phytochemicals, thymol, and carvacrol fight infections and bacteria. Meanwhile, its antioxidants help reduce and prevent cell damage. Is a potent medicinal when used as an essential oil. It is considered a “hot oil,” and must be diluted correctly for topical use. When used, it’s known to fight sore throats, poor digestion, nasal congestion and colds, herpes cold sores, and potentially joint pain. 3. Cilantro for Brain and Blood Sugar Health Known as a wonderful flavor agent when added to Mexican, Chinese, Southeast Asian, and Indian cuisines, cilantro is versatile and great for your body. Interestingly, the seeds of cilantro are known as coriander, and the leaves are called cilantro. How can it affect your health? Cilantro is one of four herbs to grow this summer because it can: Reduce high blood sugars and the risk of type 2 diabetes: Amazingly, cilantro has been shown to increase an enzyme in the body that removes sugar from the blood. It’s so potent that those taking blood sugar medication, or those who are at risk of low blood sugars, need to use some caution when eating it (1, 2). Promote brain health: Brain ailments associated with inflammation may also benefit from cilantro intake. One animal study found that coriander extract exhibited protection against damage to nerve cells following seizures. Another concluded that it may improve memory in those suffering from degenerative brain diseases like Alzheimer’s (3, 4). 4. Peppermint in Folk Medicine and Aromatherapy For centuries, peppermint has been used in folk medicine and aromatherapy. It has been shown to: Improve pain management associated with irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS: It works by relaxing the smooth muscles in the colon, which relieves pain. It may also reduce bloating and other digestive symptoms (5, 6, 7). When used in aromatherapy, peppermint may help fight nausea. Lastly, it’s known to fight oral bacteria and bad breath. What About the Optional Add-Ons? As you know, MCT oil powder, hydrolyzed collagen, and fermented greens contain very important nutrients for health in the Keto Zone. Their healthy fats, proteins, and vegetables promote health and support immune function. However, we also know it’s a very difficult time for many readers financially. We are dedicated to offering great, nourishing recipes and great health information whether or not you can buy these ingredients at this time. If you have them or can get them, yes, add them in for full benefits. And if not, keep going strong! We are here for you. You can use many healthy foods and even free immune-boosting habits to stay healthy. Bottom Line Ready for a flavorful, savory, energizing green smoothie? We know you are! Try our recipe, and consider growing your own herbs this summer. And let us know, did you enjoy the smoothie? What are your favorite herbs to grow this summer? To read the original article click here. For more articles from Dr. Colbert click here.

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Oregano Oil Benefits for Infections, Fungus & Even the Common Cold

AHA Publisher — Wed, 20 May 2020 07:00:01 +0000

Dr. Josh Axe, DC, DMN, CNS – Designed specifically for fighting bacterial infections, antibiotics are one of medical doctors’ favorite tools for treating many health issues. But there’s another underutilized natural “medicine” that many doctors don’t tell their patients about: oregano oil (also called oil of oregano). Oregano oil is a powerful, plant-derived essential oil that may rival antibiotics when it comes to treating or preventing various infections. (1a) In fact, it contains properties that are antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal. (1b) And oregano essential oil is unlikely to cause many of the harmful side effects that are commonly attributed to high use of antibiotics — such as increased risk for antibiotic resistance, poor gut health due to destroying beneficial probiotic bacteria, reduced vitamin absorption and leaky gut syndrome due to damage of the GI tract’s lining. Meanwhile, oregano oil benefits extend beyond just controlling infections. What else is oregano essential oil used to treat? Common examples of conditions that oregano oil can help manage include: Athlete’s foot or toenail fungus Common colds Gingivitis Earaches or toothaches Digestive problems such as heartburn and SIBO (small intestine bacterial overgrowth) What Is Oregano Oil? Oregano (Origanum vulgare) is an herb that is a member of the mint family (Labiatae). Oregano has been considered a precious plant commodity for over 2,500 years in folk medicines that originated across the globe. It has a very long use in traditional medicine for treating colds, indigestion and upset stomachs. (2a) You might have some experience cooking with fresh or dried oregano leaves — such as oregano spice, one of the top herbs for healing — but oregano essential oil is far from what you’d put in your pizza sauce. Found in the Mediterranean, throughout many parts of Europe, and in South and Central Asia, medicinal grade oregano is distilled to extract the essential oil from the herb, which is where a high concentration of the herb’s active constituents are found. It takes over 1,000 pounds of wild oregano to produce just one pound of oregano essential oil! The oil’s active ingredients are preserved in alcohol and used in essential oil form both topically (on the skin) and internally. When made into a medicinal supplement or essential oil, oregano is often called “oil of oregano.” As mentioned above, oregano oil is a considered a natural alternative to prescription antibiotics. Oil of oregano contains two powerful compounds called carvacrol and thymol, both of which have been shown in studies to have strong anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. Oregano’s oil is primarily made of carvacrol, while the plant’s leaves contain a variety of antioxidant compounds, such as phenols, triterpenes, rosmarinic acid, ursolic acid and oleanolic acid. (2b) 7 Oregano Oil Benefits + Research Studies What can you use oregano essential oil for? The predominant healing compound found in oregano oil, carvacrol, has widespread uses ranging from treating allergies to protecting the skin. According to the Faculty of Pharmacy at the University of Messina in Italy: Carvacrol, a monoterpenic phenol, has emerged for its wide spectrum activity extended to food spoilage or pathogenic fungi, yeast and bacteria as well as human, animal and plant pathogenic microorganisms including drug-resistant and biofilm forming microorganisms. (3) Carcavol found in oregano essential oil is so potent that it has been been the focus of over 800 studies referenced in PubMed, the world’s No. 1 database for scientific evidence-based literature. To give you a sense of how multi-functional and impressive carvacrol is, it has been shown in studies to help reverse or reduce some of these common health problems: Bacterial infections Fungal infections Parasites Viruses Inflammation Allergies Tumors Indigestion Candida Because it has antimicrobial properties, oregano is also used to preserve food quality during storage 1. Natural Alternative to Antibiotics What’s the problem with frequently using antibiotics? Broad-spectrum antibiotics can be dangerous because they don’t only kill bacteria that are responsible for infections, they also kill good bacteria that we need for optimal health. The Wall Street Journal printed a fantastic article highlighting the dangers that patients may face when they repeatedly use antibiotics. In the author’s words, “Recent studies have shown that doctors are overprescribing broad-spectrum antibiotics, sometimes called the big guns, that kill a wide swath of both good and bad bacteria in the body.” (4) Overuse of antibiotics, and prescribing broad-spectrum drugs when they aren’t needed, can cause a range of problems. It can make the drugs less effective against the bacteria they are intended to treat by fostering the growth of antibiotic-resistant infections. And it can wipe out the body’s good bacteria (probiotics), which help digest food, produce vitamins and protect from infections, among other functions. Unfortunately broad-spectrum antibiotics are very commonly prescribed, and often for conditions in which they have no use, such as viral infections. In one study published in the Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy, researchers from the University of Utah and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that 60 percent of the time when physicians prescribe antibiotics they choose broad-spectrum types. A similar study of children, published in the journal Pediatrics, found that when antibiotics were prescribed they were broad-spectrum 50 percent of the time, mainly for respiratory conditions. (5) In contrast, what does oil of oregano do for you that makes it so beneficial? Essentially, taking oregano oil is a “broad-spectrum approach” to protecting your health. Its active ingredients help fight multiple types of harmful pathogens, including bacteria, yeast and fungi. As a study in the Journal of Medicinal Food journal stated in 2013, oregano oils “represent an inexpensive source of natural antibacterial substances that exhibited potential for use in pathogenic systems.” (1) 2. Fights Infections & Bacterial Overgrowth Here’s the good news regarding the use of less-than-ideal antibiotics: there’s evidence that oregano essential oil can help to fight at least several strains of bacteria that cause health problems that are commonly treated with antibiotics. Dozens of studies confirm the fact that oregano oil can be used in place of harmful antibiotics for a number of health concerns. In 2011 the Journal of Medicinal Food published a study that evaluated the antibacterial activity of oregano oil against five different types of bad bacteria. After evaluating the anti-bacterial characteristics of oil of oregano it showed significant anti-bacterial properties against all five species. The highest activity was observed against E. Coli, which suggests that oregano oil could potentially be routinely used to promote gastrointestinal health and to prevent deadly food poisoning. (6) A 2013 study published in Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture concluded that “O. vulgare extracts and essential oil from Portuguese origin are strong candidates to replace synthetic chemicals used by the industry.” Researchers from the study found that after studying the antioxidant and antibacterial properties of oregano that Origanum vulgare inhibited the growth of seven tested strains of bacteria that other plant extracts could not. (7) One study involving mice that was published in the journal Revista Brasileira de Farmacognosia also found impressive results: in addition to fighting bacteria like Listeria and E. Coli, they also found evidence that oregano oil may have the ability to help pathogenic fungi. (8) Other evidence shows that oregano oil’s active compounds (such as thymol and carvacrol) can help fight toothaches and earaches caused by bacterial infections. A 2005 study published in the Journal of Infectious Diseases concluded that “Essential oils or their components placed in the ear canal can provide effective treatment of acute otitis media.” (9) 3. Helps Reduce Side Effects From Medications/Drugs In recent years many studies have found that one of the most promising oregano oil benefits is helping to reduce side effects from medications/drugs. These studies give hope to people who want to find a way to manage the horrible suffering that accompanies drugs and medical interventions, such as chemotherapy or use of drugs for chronic conditions like arthritis. A study published in the International Journal of Clinical and Experimental Medicine showed that phenol in oil of oregano can help protect against methotrexate toxicity in mice. (10) Methotrexate (MTX) is a drug commonly used to treat a wide array of issues from cancer to rheumatoid arthritis, but it’s also well-known to have dangerous side effects. After evaluating oil of oregano’s ability to keep these factors at bay, researchers believe its due to oregano’s antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Oregano was shown to work better than drugs that are ineffective at providing full protection against MTX’s adverse effects. By evaluating various markers in the sciatic nerve in mice, it was observed for the first time that carvacrol decreased the pro-inflammatory response in mice being treated by MTX. Being a relatively new concept in the research world, I expect to see more studies testing these results because “groundbreaking” doesn’t even begin to describe the significance of this study. Similarly, research conducted in the Netherlands showed that oregano essential oil can also “prevent bacterial overgrowth and colonization in the large intestine during oral iron therapy.” (11) Used to treat iron deficiency anemia, oral iron therapy is known to cause a series of gastrointestinal issues like nausea, diarrhea, constipation, heartburn and vomiting. It’s believed that carvacrol targets the outer membrane of gram-negative bacteria and increases membrane permeability, thereby causing depletion of harmful bacteria. In addition to its antimicrobial properties, carvacrol also interferences with certain pathways for bacterial iron handling which helps to lower side effects of iron therapy. 4. Helps Treat Athlete’s Foot One study found that a combination of heat, salt and use of essential oils (including oregano) had inhibitory effects against mycelia of T. rubrum and conidia of T. mentagrophytes, bacterial strains that commonly cause the fungal infection known as athlete’s foot. The researchers concluded that “Thermotherapy combined with essential oils and salt would be promising to treat tinea pedis in a foot bath.” After testing the fungicidal activity of 11 essential oils against the bacteria known to cause athlete’s foot, oregano oil was found to be the most powerful (followed by thyme, cinnamon bark, lemongrass and clove). (12) 5. Helps Treat Digestive Issues (Including SIBO & Heartburn) Several of the active compounds found in Origanum vulgare can help to aid digestion by relaxing the muscles of the GI tract and also helping to balance the ratio of good-to-bad bacteria in the gut. Thymol, one of oregano’s active compounds, is a similar compound to menthol, which is found in peppermint oil. Like menthol, thymol may help relax the soft tissue of the throat and stomach which can help to decrease GERD, heartburn and discomfort after eating. Because it helps balance bacteria and fights yeast overgrowth, oregano essential oil is also a popular natural treatment for Candida and SIBO, or small intestine bacterial overgrowth. SIBO is a common digestive problem that causes gas, bloating and intolerances to many carbohydrate-containing foods (especially FODMAPs). Origanum vulgare hinders bacterial replication and can be used similarly to antibiotic medications such as rifaximin (Xifaxan) for treating infections that affect digestive health and nutrient absorption. A 2014 study published in Global Advances in Health & Medicine found evidence that use of herbal antimicrobials is just as effective as the antibiotic usually given for the treatment of SIBO. When 104 patients diagnosed with SIBO (via lactulose breath test) were treated either with rifaximin (1,200 milligrams) or herbal antimicrobials over the course of four weeks the results showed that 46 percent of the patients treated with herbal antimicrobials experienced symptom improvements, compared to only 34 percent treated with the antibiotic rifaximin. (13) Additionally, 14 of the 44 patients who still had SIBO after a course of rifaximin were then treated with herbal antimicrobials. Fifty-seven percent responded positively to the herbal treatment even after failing to feel better from the antibiotics! 6. Can Help Treat Parasites One study found that when adults whose stools tested positive for enteric parasites (including Blastocystis hominis which causes digestive distress) supplemented with 600 milligrams of oregano for six weeks many experienced significant gastrointestinal symptoms. There was a “complete disappearance of Entamoeba hartmanni (four cases), Endolimax nana (one case), and Blastocystis...

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