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About Dennis Leppanen
Expertise
I can answer most questions on herb usage and and am very familiar with (gras) herbs, generally recognized as safe. I am very knowlegible in nutritional healing. I have extended education in detoxing the body and fasting for health. I believe in the Naturopathic belief, the body get sick in only two ways; either because it is too toxic, or it is malnurished. I grow, wildcraft, and make most of my herbal remedies.

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Individuals, will furnish upon request

 
   

You are here:  Experts > Home/Garden > Herbs for Health > Herbs for Health > Oil of Oregano with diverticular disease

Herbs for Health - Oil of Oregano with diverticular disease


Expert: Dennis Leppanen - 9/22/2009

Question
I have diverticulosis, but usually only become inflamed with the ingestion of oatmeal.  Recently, I started taking Oil of oregano capsules and vitimin D 10,000 iu qd.  The second day, last night, I woke with a great deal of indigestion and problems with my bowels, but not the inflammation of diverticulosis.  Could this be affecting me negatively and if so, what else can I take to prevent respiratory illnesses this winter as I am also one that gets pheumonia or bronchitis for a great deal of time, every winter due to having cold induced bronchospasms.

Answer
Hi Debbie,

I have a long and windy response here, so bear with me.


Bronchitis is the inflammation or obstruction of the bronchi, the breathing tubes that lead to the lungs. The inflammation results in a buildup of mucus and resulting side affects. Bronchospasm may also occur. Swelling of the mucus glands frequently accompany bronchospasm.

Bronchitis can either be acute or chronic. Acute bronchitis is usually caused by an infection, which can be bacterial, viral, chlamydial, mycoplasmal, or caused by a combination of agents. It usually follows an upper respiratory tract infection, such as a cold or influenza. In acute bronchitis, bronchospasm is more often associated with viral infection. Most cases are self-limiting, with full recovery in a matter of weeks. In some cases, however, the condition may lead to pneumonia.

Chronic bronchitis results from frequent irritation of the lungs, such as from exposure to cigarette smoke or other noxious fumes, rather than an infection. Allergies may also cause chronic bronchitis.

SUPPLEMENTS

Colloidal silver—Take as directed on label.—A natural antibiotic that destroys bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Promotes healing.

Natural beta-carotene—50,000 IU daily—Needed for protection and repair of the lungs.

Vitamin A—20,000 IU twice daily for one month. Then reduce to 15,000 IU daily.—For healing and protection of all tissues.

Vitamin C—3,000—10,000 mg daily, in divided doses.—Enhances immune function and reduce histamine levels. Use a buffered powder form.

Astragalus is a natural antibiotic. Caution: Do not use in the presence of a fever.

Include garlic and onions in your diet.

Drink plenty of fluids. Pure water, herbal teas, and soups are all good choices.

Avoid mucus-forming foods, such as dairy products, processed foods, sugar, sweet fruits, and white flour; also avoid gas-producing foods such as beans, cabbage, cauliflower, and so on. A vegetarian diet is best.

Add moisture to the air.


Diverticulitis is a condition in which the mucous membranes lining the colon become inflamed, resulting in the formation of small, pouchlike areas called diverticula in the large intestine. Once they develop, they do not go away. The diverticula themselves cause no symptoms, but if waste matter becomes trapped in them, they can become infected and inflamed, causing fever, chills and pain.

Diverticula typically form when an individual is constipated. Eating a low fiber diet may contribute to the development of diverticulitis. Without fiber to soften and add bulk, stools are harder to pass. Greatly increased pressure is needed to force small portions of hard, dry stool through the bowel. This rise in pressure can cause the weakness in the colon walls.

Diverticulitis can also be acute or chronic. Exactly why is not known, but it is known that smoking and stress make symptoms worse.

SUPPLEMENTS

Fiber (psyllium, ground flax seed)—Take as directed on label. Take one hour before meals with a large glass of liquid. Take separately from other supplements and medications.—Helps prevent constipation. Prevents infection by preventing accumulation of waste in pouches in the colon walls.—*I usually recommend oat bran also, but since you had problems with oatmeal I left it out.

Alfalfa is a good natural source of Vitamin K and valuable minerals, which are often deficient in people with intestinal disorders. It contains chlorophyll, which aids in healing.

The key to controlling this disorder is to consume an adequate amount of fiber and lots of quality water.

I would eliminate the Oregano Oil and if you can get fifteen minutes of sunshine per day, I would discontinue the Vitamin D also.

Remember, anytime you thing an herbal supplement disagrees with you, discontinue use and see if your symptoms go away.

Hope this helps. Let me know if you need any clarification. This is a lot to absorb.

Best wishes,
Dennis  

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