Origanum vulgare                            Common name:  Oregano
Family: Lamiaceae

Parts Used:  Aerial parts

Constituents: Volatile oil (carvacrol, thymol, bisabolene, caryophyllene, borneol, linalool), flavonoids, tannins, resin, sterols

Medicinal actions: Antiseptic, mild anti-viral, diaphoretic, expectorant, rubefacient, bitter, carminative, emmenagogue, diuretic, antispasmodic

Medicinal use: For use in colds, flus, bronchitis and asthma both topically and internally. Can be rubbed into the temples for tension headaches and used topically for infected cuts and wounds. Will stimulate bile flow and aid digestion, promote menstruation and aid in dysmenorrhea.

Pharmacology:

• Volatile oils Carvacrol & thymol are anti-bacterial and anti-fungal.

Pharmacy: Tincture: (1:4, 40%), 2-4ml TID. Infusion: 2 tsp/cup, infuse 15 min, TID. Massage oil, gargle & mouthwash.

Toxicity: Can irritate skin and mucous membranes.

Contraindications: Pregnancy, internal use of essential oil.

Interactions: None known.