Once again we return to our own version of alphabet soup in which we spin the wheel and land on a letter that we then feature. This time it is the letter “O” as we use this blog to tell you what you need to know about some purposeful supplements, herbs, or nutrients beginning with the 15th letter of the alphabet. What this does is give you a chance to become familiar with natural remedies you don’t Ordinarily Otherwise have an Opportunity to learn about.
Naturally, these are presented in alphabetical order:
Octinoxate. This chemical is sometimes used in tandem with oxybenzone (see further down) in sunscreen products because it can protect skin exposed to the sun by absorbing ultraviolet (UV) rays. Octinoxate is also used in various cosmetic products and pharmaceuticals.
Oil of Oregano.This is perhaps the most versatile of the natural remedies featured here. Sourced from a flowering plant that belongs to the same family as mint, oil of oregano is an essential oil found in multiple supplemental forms. It contains a variety of compounds known as phenols, terpenes, and terpenoids that possess potent antioxidant properties. These help give this oil its many health benefits that include acting as an antibiotic, reducing elevated cholesterol, treating yeast infections, acting as an anti-inflammatory, and easing pain.
Olive leaf extract.Olive leaf is a prominent part of the Mediterranean diet and has been identified by scientists as helpful in mitigating the effects of a variety of chronic diseases. Its chief attribute sems to be its robust antioxidant characteristic that allows olive leaf extract to be a strong supporter of your immune system. It accomplishes this by fighting off cell damage that could otherwise lead to various diseases.
Omega-3 fatty acids. Don’t fret – these are healthy, polyunsaturated fats that equip Omega-3’s to play a starring role in supporting your heart health, such as by helping to reduce triglycerides in your body. Because your body isn’t able to produce sufficient omega-3’s you need to survive on your own, you must find the right foods to eat (e.g., fatty fish such as salmon and mackerel) and keep a supply of omega-3 supplements handy to help bolster your intake, following proper guidelines of course.
Oscillococcinum. This homeopathic remedy has been around for more than 60 years and is believed to alleviate the symptoms of a case of influenza (flu) and possibly shorten its duration.
Oxybenzone. This chemical substance, which occurs naturally as well as being manmade can absorb UV radiation, making it a natural ingredient for skin-care and hair-care products such as sunscreen.
Oyster calcium. This is a type of natural medication predominantly recommended for people who are beset with low calcium levels in their blood. This is usually caused by dietary regimens deficient in calcium. Such low calcium levels have be linked to bone loss (osteoporosis), weak bones, and a condition known as hypoparathyroidism which is characterized by reduced activity of the parathyroid gland.
Some of these natural remedies you have heard of before, some you probably haven’t. But equipping yourself with the information presented here should help you make better-informed decisions about your health care going forward. Also, as always, be sure to discuss your possible use of any supplement, herb, or nutrient with your personal physician or other healthcare professional to make sure they are suitable for you. Let’s be careful out there. Okay?