Boy coughing
Herbalists and alternative medicine practitioners use oregano to treat the common cold and coughs that accompany it. As a medicinal herb, it is particularly used for dry, non-productive coughs to make them more productive. Oregano is a known expectorant, which loosens mucus and helps expel it from the body. The type of oregano used for dry coughs is called marjoram, or wild marjoram, a perennial herb belonging to the mint family. It is usually administered via an herbal tea, but can also be taken in the form of an herbal extract, also known as a tincture.
History
Wild marjoram
The botanical name for wild marjoram is Origanum vulgare, and according to Encyclopedia Brittanica it is found native to Southern Europe, parts of Asia and North Africa. The name oregano comes from the Greek words oros and ganos, meaning mountain and joy, respectively. The herb's aroma is very strong, resembling the aroma of sage and, to a lesser degree, thyme. The Greeks considered wild marjoram to be a symbol of happiness, and the sign of its flowers blooming on a grave meant that the departed loved one had found peace.
Traditional Medical Uses
Wild marjoram was used in culinary as well as medicinal applications for centuries, especially by the Greeks, who used it for everything from remedies for poison to pain relievers. Theherbalist.com calls marjoram a folk remedy that has been used through the ages to treat colds and sore throats, along with bronchial issues. It was used in ancient Egypt as an antiseptic and antibacterial to disinfect and promote the healing of wounds, as well as to minimize scars. Today it is used to treat respiratory conditions such as dry coughs, along with bronchitis, asthma and tonsillitis.
Effects
As a decongestant and expectorant, marjoram eases the symptoms of a cold, which include a sore throat, rattling or dry cough, congested sinuses and body aches. As an expectorant, a medication that both loosens and promotes the production of mucus, marjoram's efficacy is due to the phyto-chemical saponin, which has a stimulatory action upon the respiratory system. Marjoram also eases aching muscles through an organic compound called caffeic acid, a powerful antioxidant with potent anti-inflammatory properties.
Dosage
Herbal extract
When taking marjoram for a dry cough, alternative medicine practitioners will often prescribe an herbal extract. Herbal extracts or tinctures consist of a solution made from mixing parts of the herb with alcohol. The plant matter is then removed, with only the pure oil from the herb remaining. Although dosage may vary according to brand and manufacturer, a common dosage is 5 to 10 drops via dropper, into either water or juice. Alternatively, the drops can be placed under the tongue.
Warning
As with all herbal remedies, marjoram should not take the place of emergency medical attention or regular doctor's visits. Women who are pregnant or nursing are advised to avoid this herb, as it also acts as an emmenagogue, which stimulates blood flow (menstruation). As wild marjoram is a part of the mint family, anyone with allergies to herbs in this family should also exercise care when coming into contact with it. Avoid contact with the skin, as it might cause irritation.
Tags: along with, alternative medicine, alternative medicine practitioners, contact with, medicine practitioners