Antibiotics are drugs that fight bacterial infections. You may need them if you have strep throat or a urinary tract infection (UTI). However, it is not effective against viruses such as colds and influenza. Also, some bacterial infections, such as sinusitis and ear infections, can be cured without antibiotics. Although the use of antibiotics is common in modern medicine, some people have been using antibiotics from natural sources for centuries.
This article discusses natural antibiotics, their potential uses, and when you should see a medical professional.
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Best 9 Natural Antibiotics
Although researchers are still trying to understand how to use natural antibiotics more effectively, some natural sources hold promise.
honey
Medical honey fights infections, helps form a protective barrier and moistens wounds. Many factors contribute to honey's antibacterial properties. One factor is the natural production of hydrogen peroxide. However, Manuka honey (non-peroxide honey) also has significant antibacterial effects.
In medical practice, honey can be used to treat:
- postoperative scar
- Skin diseases, ulcers, burns, necrosis
- eye disease
- Problems with oral mucosa (mucous membrane inside the mouth)
There is still no consensus on what types and concentrations of honey are effective for certain types of wounds and infections. And there are many ways honey can become contaminated.
Be careful with honey: Honey should not be given to children under 12 months of age due to the risk of botulism. Consult your health care professional before applying honey from a jar to a wound.
garlic
People have used garlic to treat bacterial infections for centuries.Research shows that garlic and its derivatives effectively fight garlic Salmonella, Escherichia coli (Escherichia coli), and Staphylococcus aureus. (Staphylococcus aureus), causing many infections. And research suggests that garlic may help treat certain bacterial ear infections.
Several compounds found in garlic, such as allicin, ajoene, and allyl sulfide, have antibacterial properties. Researchers have studied various forms of garlic, including powder, paste, oil, and extract. It is clear that garlic has antibiotic properties and is generally safe.
However, researchers have not yet concluded on the dosage or the best method for administering garlic as an antibiotic replacement. Garlic extract and allicin supplements are available over the counter. Garlic supplements may increase the risk of bleeding or interfere with the action of some medications. Consider talking to your health care provider about whether this is a good option for you.
Ginger
In addition to other health benefits, several compounds found in ginger provide a broad spectrum of antibacterial properties that protect against a variety of microorganisms. Ginger also has the effect of preventing bacteria that cause periodontal disease. Escherichia coli, and staphylococcal infections.
You can buy ginger extracts, tinctures, oils, and oral capsules. Ginger can also be obtained from foods and drinks such as tea, juice, candies, and lozenges. Do not give ginger to children under 2 years of age. Adults should limit their ginger intake to 4 grams (g) per day, and if pregnant, he should limit his intake to 1 g.
echinacea
echinacea It is a perennial flowering plant. Echinacea extract has antibacterial properties. It has long been used to treat wounds and infections such as urinary tract infections. Research suggests it may also be effective against respiratory bacteria.
Echinacea is available in various forms, including ointments, which can be applied as needed. Also available in extracts, tinctures, tablets, and capsules, it is usually taken three times a day for no more than 10 days.
myrrh
antibiotic compounds myrrh It may help prevent some respiratory infections and gingivitis. One study suggests that myrrh may effectively treat trichomoniasis (a sexually transmitted infection) when other treatments are not effective. It may also help fight the bacteria that causes Lyme disease.
Unlike most antibiotics, myrrh can kill bacteria that are not growing. It also does not cause antibiotic resistance. Further research is needed, but there are no clear guidelines regarding dosage and administration.
time
Thyme may protect against bacteria such as: Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes, Pseudomonas putida, Staphylococcus aureus, and Methicillin resistance Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Thyme may have therapeutic uses, but more research is needed to determine best practices. There are no dosage guidelines for thyme or thyme supplements as antibiotics. However, thyme is a healthy addition to a balanced diet.
golden seal
The bioactive compounds found in the herb goldenseal have antibacterial properties. Some people use goldenseal to treat digestive and skin disorders. Research shows that goldenseal may help treat urinary tract infections by preventing bacteria from attaching to the bladder wall.
Research on the health benefits and risks of goldenseal in humans is limited. Although available as a dietary supplement, the use of goldenseal for health-related purposes is not supported by scientific evidence.
oregano
Research suggests that oregano oil has antibiotic effects, possibly due to a compound called carvacrol. One study shows that oregano oil may be effective against the following conditions: Streptococcus mutans, A type of bacteria that causes tooth decay.
You can add fresh oregano or dried oregano to your food. It is also available as a dietary supplement and essential oil. There is a lack of scientific evidence regarding how to use specific types of oregano or oregano's antibiotic properties.
cloves
Clove essential oil has a compound called eugenol that acts as an antibacterial agent. Studies have shown that eugenol is effective against the following diseases: Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Cloves may be used as an antibiotic replacement in the future, but more intensive human studies are needed. There is not enough information about how to use cloves for antibacterial purposes.
Risks of natural antibiotics
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not approve herbal and other dietary supplements for safety and effectiveness before they are placed on the market. These products are not approved for the treatment or prevention of disease.
Even natural products can be harmful, especially when taken in high doses, over long periods of time, or by people with certain underlying medical conditions. They can cause side effects and interfere with other supplements and medications. Read labels carefully and discuss dietary supplements with your health care provider.
When to use prescribed antibiotics
Minor skin lesions can be treated with over-the-counter topical antibiotics such as Neosporin or Micitracin (Neomycin, Polymyxin, Bacitracin).
A prescription for antibiotics is usually required to treat serious conditions such as pneumonia or sepsis. Your health care provider may prescribe antibiotics for other bacterial infections, especially if you are at high risk because of a serious health condition, after surgery, or during chemotherapy.
Prescribed antibiotics are not always necessary, and overuse can lead to antibiotic resistance (bacteria becoming unresponsive to antibiotics). On the other hand, natural antibiotics are not a substitute for prescribed antibiotics.
Your health care provider can assess your situation and determine whether prescription antibiotics are needed and which antibiotics will be most effective. If this is the case, it is important to take the medication exactly as directed.
summary
Many plants have natural antibiotic properties. These foods also have other health benefits, such as preventing diseases and infections. A great addition to a healthy meal plan. Antibiotics are drugs that fight bacterial infections. They do not fight viruses or other diseases. Also, not all bacterial infections require antibiotics.
Natural antibiotics may be helpful for mild bacterial infections, but they are not a substitute for prescription drugs. If you have a bacterial infection, we recommend seeing your health care provider for diagnosis. It can determine whether antibiotics or other treatments are needed.
