Antibiotics are, and have been, a lifesaving medicine for millions. Unfortunately, the overuse or incomplete use of antibiotics has now created bacteria that are resistant to all known types of antibiotics.
This means that, once again, unless we develop new antibiotics, bacteria will reign supreme and people will die from simple infections.
You can avoid these dangers by only using antibiotics when you truly need them and by consuming all of the medication your doctor gives you.
You can also avoid these dangers by using nature’s antibiotics whenever possible.
Of course we aren’t suggesting that these are better than or even equal to prescription antibiotics, but many times these natural foods, spices, and oils will do the job.
Want to know more? Keep reading and find out which are the top 10 antibiotics given to us by Mother Nature.
- Garlic
This is perhaps the most common and most used all natural antibiotic. Simple, everyday cloves of garlic contain antifungal, antiviral, and antibiotic compounds. Garlic needs to be crushed or cut in order to release these compounds, however. So be sure to add plenty of garlic to whatever you are cooking to keep yourself healthy, even if it won’t get you voted Most Kissable!
- Echinacea
Native Americans have used this flowering plant for eons. It can treat bacterial infections, wounds, and keeps the immune system working properly. You can use Echinacea creams to treat many skin problems and stop infections. You can also take supplements to fight off internal bacterial or viral infections or to simply keep your immune system working at its best, drink a cup or two of Echinacea tea each day during the flu season. Please note that those who have immune disorders should avoid this supplement.
- Honey
This is a sweet remedy that has been used for hundreds of years! Honey contains antimicrobial, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory compounds. Before bandages or antibiotics, honey was often applied to skin wounds to prevent infections, as well as being used as a face wash to prevent breakouts. Always use raw, organic honey for best results.
- Turmeric
Used in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine for centuries, turmeric is a super anti-inflammatory with antibiotic compounds that not only destroy bacteria, but encourage the body to use its own natural defenses to heal itself. You can consume fresh turmeric via food or tea, take supplements, or mix turmeric powder with honey and milk for a super antibiotic potion!
- Oil of Oregano
A chemical compound in oregano oil, called carvacrol, is such a powerful antibiotic that it has been known to work in cases where antibiotic resistant bacteria refused to budge! You can mix a few drops of this healing oil in water to bathe wounds, help stop skin problems, treat foot or toenail infections, and much more! For cough or flu symptoms, add a few drops to a pot of boiling water and breathe in the healing steam.
- Olive Leaf Extract
Olive leaves have good antimicrobial benefits, as well as a natural anti-inflammatory action. You can consume this one via supplements, or make your own tincture for external use by filling a jar with fresh olive tree leaves and covering them with vodka. Leave in a dark place for 4 to 6 weeks, then strain out the leaves. This makes a terrific wash to cleanse wounds or cuts.
- Goldenseal
This is another herb that has been used by the Native People of America for centuries. It works well for both internal and external bacterial infections and activates the white blood cells of the body so they can fight infections naturally. This is very powerful medicine, however, and should only be taken for 3 or 4 weeks at a time. You can take supplements or make a tea from fresh leaves and flowers. Be careful if you harvest this plant wild, however, as it is on the endangered list due to over harvesting. Consider growing your own!
- Ginger
You might already know that ginger is a natural way to stop nausea and vomiting, but did you know that it can also help to stop food borne bacteria, such as salmonella? Drinking ginger tea after each meal ensures not only proper digestion, but will kill any unwanted bacteria and pathogens in your food.
- Neem
Sometimes called Indian Lilac, neem is another powerful plant that fights bacteria without the bacteria building up a resistance to it. Neem oil is the perfect answer for oral problems such as gingivitis and bad breath. You can also use the leaves or powder to take care of most skin problems.
- Grapefruit Seed Extract
These tiny but powerful seeds are terrific for their antifungal, antiseptic, and antiviral compounds. Grapefruit seed extracts have been shown to be effective in fighting more than 800 types of bacteria and viruses. You might want to consider taking these supplements during the cold and flu season this winter!
It was the father of medicine, Hippocrates, who once said “Let your food be your medicine and your medicine be your food”. He was absolutely correct! Mother Nature has already provided us with almost everything we need to live a healthy, natural life; if only we would take advantage of it.
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