Dr. Gott: With any cure, talk to doctor

DEAR DR. GOTT: I have heard all sorts of people asking for advice on all sorts of ailments. If your readers just bought a bottle of OregaMax, a bottle of oregano oil and the book “The Cure Is in the Cupboard,” they could save a whole heck of a lot of money running to the doctor for such ailments as earaches, spider bites, flu symptoms, cold sores, allergies and so much more.

If you are really looking after your readers, you will print my letter. If you don’t, I will understand that your loyalty has to be with the pharmaceutical companies.

DEAR READER: Your letter smacks of a setup, but I feel compelled to respond. You clearly haven’t read many of my columns, because I have locked horns over the years with a number of pharmaceutical companies and the products they market. One major complaint of mine is that long-range consequences of some drugs remain unknown until too late. Unsuspecting patients and physicians working on good faith are forced to deal with frightening issues they should never have to face. Now, let’s address your letter.

OregaMax is purported to be a unique species of wild-oregano supplement obtained only from the Mediterranean. The leaves are collected, crushed and mixed with mountain berry, garlic and onion. Garlic and onion have been used for countless years to combat everyday ailments. In any event, I am sure there are supplements derived from homegrown or local oregano touted to be Mediterranean products, and I’m unsure how we would know the difference. The recommended dose is two capsules taken once or twice daily – or three capsules taken two or three times daily. Already, we have gone from two capsules to a potential of nine each day. I don’t know about you, but in my book, that’s a whole lot of oregano! Side effects are stated to be minimal but can occur.

Then there’s oregano oil, a natural substance diluted heavily and used to treat sinus infections, itches and irritated gums. Oregano oil can reduce the body’s ability to absorb iron and should be used only with an iron supplement. Oregano comes from the same family as sage, basil, thyme and mint, so if known allergies to these herbs exist, it should not be used. Side effects include skin irritation, rash and vomiting.

Finally, “The Cure Is in the Cupboard” is a paperback describing what I assume to be countless ways that oregano can help the reader cope with every ailment known to man, including extending your life span, fighting the common cold, and keeping off excess weight. That’s one heck of a tall order. However, there are countless books out there dealing with natural methods for every known ailment. Some have merit, while others don’t.

I urge readers to check with their physicians or to consult with a naturopath before beginning any course of treatment. You haven’t sold me on the oregano idea, so I will opt for a good daily vitamin that just might extend my life span, keep me fit enough to prevent the common cold and keep my weight in check to boot!

To provide related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Vitamins and Minerals.” Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed stamped No. 10 envelope and a $2 check or money order to Newsletter, P.O. Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092-0167. Be sure to mention the title or print an order form off my website at www.AskDrGottMD.com.