Herbs Listings

Herbs - O

• Oak Moss 
  

  Has a calming and balancing effect, and is a noted aphrodisiac. When inhaled, it can work wonders for chest and sinus congestion.            

                                                                                                               
• Oatstraw                                                                                             Oat Straw is rich in calcium and magnesium. It can be used for both physical and nervous fatigue and is helpful for depression. Oatstraw also contains B-complex vitamins, silicia, calcium, flavones, saponins, and Vitamin A. 

   

  Oatstraw has been found to be an excellent toner for the whole system. Oat Straw is useful for thyroid and estrogen deficiency, for MS, osteoporosis, appetite loss, anorexia, urinary concerns, colds and chills and to encourage sweating. It's secondary uses are boils, weak bones, bursitis, constipation, gallbladder, kidney problems, liver disorders, pancreatic concerns, rheumatism, and some skin conditions. 

   

  This herb increases internal heat, dispels internal chill and strengthens metabolism and circulation, relieves symptoms of depression, prevents and relieves spasms, softens and soothes damaged or inflamed surfaces such as the gastric mucous membranes, strengthens functional activity of the nervous system, helps with the process of assimilating food and has the property of nourishing, and restores, nourishes, and supports the entire body; it exerts a gently strengthening effect on the body. 

   

  Oatstraw is not a quick fix herb, it is an herb that can be quite effective if used on a regular basis over time. Every person and every situation is different, but a general guideline could be to drink two to three cups of infusion, three or four times a week. It is slow to act in the system but has a long lasting effect.                                                                                                                        

• Oregano                                                                                              Bile flow is stimulated by the oregano, and the herb also aids in alleviating the discomfort of flatulence and excess abdominal gas. The oregano has a very potent antiseptic action, many respiratory conditions including various coughs, problems such as tonsillitis, problems like bronchitis and asthma affecting patients can be treated using the herbal remedy. Menstruation is said to be promoted by the oregano, and herbalists give this remedy for women with menstrual difficulties. Oregano oil is used after dilution and topically applied to treat toothache as well as painful joints in patients.

   

  A toothache was typically treated using the oil of the oregano during medieval times and herbalist traditionally gave this to their patients. The use of the oregano as an aid to digestion began during the 16th and 17th centuries, when herbalists commonly prescribed the herb; it was also used as a diuretic herb. The oregano was also used as an antidote for venomous bites from snakes and insects. In addition, the herbal remedy was used as a topical ointment to alleviate itching and other skin disorders.                                                                                                                        

• Osha                                                                                                   Osha is an antibacterial and anti-inflammatory. It is ideal for viral infections of the sinuses, throat, and upper and lower respiratory systems. It helps bring up respiratory secretions and relaxes smooth muscle, making it beneficial for coughs and asthmatic breathing difficulties. Osha induces sweating and helps eliminate toxins through the pores of the skin.

  Benefits of osha for specific health conditions include the following:

  •Arthritis and carpal tunnel syndrome. Osha is a traditional remedy in Native American medicine and home remedies of the American West for providing long-term relief of inflammation.

  •Bronchitis, colds, influenza, and sinusitis. One of the active constituents of osha is Z-ligustilide, which acts gently against bacterial and yeast infections. In the minute quantities provided by the herb, this chemical stops the multiplication of bacteria and yeast cells while relaxing the muscles lining the respiratory passages. It is very useful for stubborn respiratory conditions and viruses that linger.