Oregano gargles: End throat pain

Gargling three times daily with an oregano brew ends throat scratchiness and pain within 48 hours for almost 100% of women studied, Canadian researchers say. Credit compounds in oregano leaves (thymol and carvacrol) that reduce tissue swelling, speed the healing of mucous membranes and block the growth of invading viruses and bacteria. To do: Steep 2 tsp. of dried oregano in 1 cup of boiling water for 5 minutes; strain. Shake gently before using and store leftovers in the fridge.