As we all know, today, antibiotics are often used when we need to inhibit or kill bacteria growth. What many people don’t know, however, is that antibiotics are not exactly a modern invention: the old, original antibiotics were derived from plants, oils, and even foods; in fact, a lot of today’s antibiotics are derived from exactly the same natural sources.
The problem with modern antibiotics is that, along with killing harmful bacteria, they also destroy beneficial bacteria, often leading to gut issues, which in turn, can lead to other health problems. So, when dealing with a common infection, why not try natural antibiotics first?
1. Echinacea
This herb is a Native American medicinal plant, that has been used for many years for treating various infections, diseases, and injuries. Traditionally, Echinacea was used to treat open wounds and blood poisoning, but today, it’s mostly used for flu, common cold, and ear infections, thanks to its ability to destroy harmful bacteria.
2. Garlic
Garlic has been used for thousands of years as a medicinal plant. For instance, in the 17000s, garlic was used to fight plague. Today, we know that garlic contains allicin, which can destroy many harmful strains of bacteria, which is why it’s considered one of the most powerful natural antibiotics.
3. Turmeric
Turmeric has antibacterial, antimicrobial and antifungal properties, which makes it a super-healthy, safe, and natural treatment for various health problems. Its active ingredient, curcumin, has been linked to numerous health benefits and has been even shown to fight cancer. Use turmeric to stop the spread of harmful bacteria, whether internally or topically.
4. Oil of Oregano
Thanks to its key ingredient, carvacrol, oil of oregano is antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal. One study, conducted by Georgetown University researchers, showed that oil of oregano provides almost exactly the same benefits as the consumption of regular antibiotics, but without the harmful side-effects. Besides treating common cold and flu, oil of oregano can treat fungal skin infections as well.
5. Honey
One of the oldest known antibiotics, honey has been used for centuries as a medicine. Thanks to its high hydrogen peroxide content and low pH level, honey can not only be used to fight internal infections but external as well – even Egyptians used it as a skin protectant. Manuka honey deserves a special mention, as it’s supposed to be the healthiest honey in the world. Its antimicrobial activity has been shown to kill a wide range of pathogens, including flesh-eating bacteria and MRS (hospital super bug).
