Best Powerful & Natural Antibiotics
Antibiotics are drugs doctors prescribe to fight bacterial infections. Most times, your immune system can kill harmful bacteria before they have a chance to multiply and cause symptoms of infection. However, when white blood cells fail to destroy harmful bacteria invading the body, your immune system is unable to fight off an infection. If this happens, you may need antibiotics to rid your body of the harmful bacteria causing the infection.
Antibiotics are used to kill or inhibit bacteria growth. Although you might think of antibiotics as modern medicine, they’ve actually been around for centuries. The original antibiotics, like a lot of today's antibiotics, are derived from natural sources. Inflammation is the secret enemy inside your body. It can lead to heart disease, diabetes and even Alzheimer's
Certain plant extracts, essential oils, and even foods have antibiotic properties. For example, some food and vegetable extracts can prevent the growth of bacteria in food.
1. Garlic
Raw garlic when crushed or chewed contains a compound called allicin – which has similar properties to penicillin. This superfood member of the onion family is antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, anti-parasitic, anti-fungal, and antioxidant (mopping up free radicals that have been proven to cause cancer).
Everything from inflammation to colds to serious infections is minimized and/or obliterated with the addition of garlic and for those who don’t enjoy the taste, there are supplements as well. Check into “aged” garlic supplements for the best results. Garlic is not only potent, it contains a host of vitamins, nutrients, and minerals that are beneficial to total body wellness.
Garlic is generally safe to ingest, although large doses might cause internal bleeding. Up to two cloves per day is considered an acceptable dosage. If you’re taking a garlic supplement, be sure to follow the dosage directions as provided. If you’re taking medication that thins the blood, consult your doctor before using garlic as an antibiotic. Large doses of garlic can amplify the effects of this medication.
2. Honey
Honey is one the oldest known antibiotics, tracing back to ancient times. Egyptians frequently used honey as a natural antibiotic and a skin protectant. Ancient Romans used honey on the battlefield to treat wounds and prevent infection. Civilizations all over the world continue to consider honey one of the best natural antibiotics, antimicrobials, anti-inflammatories, and antiseptics known to man after thousands of years.
New Zealand’s Manuka honey has been proven to have the highest levels of antioxidants and curative powers. An enzyme found in honey releases hydrogen peroxide. This process helps your body fight infection and prevents the growth of bacteria. Soothing to the digestive system, honey removes toxins from the blood and helps your liver operate more efficiently.
A great boost to the immune system, consider combining honey with cinnamon to strengthen your white blood cells! Raw, organic honey is the best option since most pasteurization methods kills the antioxidant effects.
Honey contains hydrogen peroxide, which may account for some of its antibacterial properties. It also has a high sugar content, which can help stop the growth of certain bacteria. Additionally, honey has a low pH level. This works to pull moisture away from bacteria, causing the bacteria to get dehydrated and die off.
You can also ingest honey to aid in the treatment of internal infections. Simply swallow a whole tablespoon or stir it into a warm cup of herbal tea for a soothing treat.
3. Cabbage
There are sulfur compounds found in cabbage – a member of the cruciferous family that includes broccoli and kale – that have been shown effective as cancer fighters.
What many people don’t realize is how much vitamin C is found in cabbage. One cup provides 75% of what you need every day.
Naturally antibacterial, eating shredded raw cabbage in your salad, as a side dish in the form of slaw, or drinking fresh cabbage juice (with honey added to sweeten) is an excellent way to improve digestion, prevent disease, and even manage your weight!
4. Grapefruit Seed Extract (GSE)
The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine published a study that found grapefruit seed extract (GSE) effective against more than 800 forms of viruses and bacteria, more than a hundred strains of fungus, and many parasites.
High in many antioxidants, GSE boosts immunity, alkalizes the body naturally, and aids in digestion by improving your beneficial gut flora.
Grapefruit seed extract (GSE) has been reported to be a highly effective, natural antibiotic in combating a variety of common infectious agents. In one study, drops of concentrated grapefruit-seed extract were tested for antibacterial properties against a number of gram-positive and gram-negative organisms. The researchers concluded that GSE was comparable to “proven topical antibacterials. Although the GSE appeared to have a somewhat greater inhibitory effect on gram-positive organisms than on gram-negative organisms, its comparative effectiveness against a wide range of bacterial biotypes is significant.”
5. Raw Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)
Apple cider vinegar contains a powerful compound called acetic acid, which is the byproduct of the bacteria that ferments apples and produces vinegar. Acetic acid has the ability to kill dangerous “bad” bacteria, and at the same time to foster the growth of beneficial “good” bacteria. Because acetic acid kills unwanted bacteria when it comes into contact with it, it essentially acts as a natural antibiotic. Acetic acid has natural antibacterial qualities, and has been used as an effective natural remedy for dandruff, high blood sugar, and constipation. Apple cider vinegar is also said to be effective for reducing the inflammation associated acne, gout, and arthritis. The far-reaching benefits of daily doses of apple cider vinegar (ACV) include antibiotic and antiseptic properties, naturally alkalizing your system, and can aid you in everything from managing your weight to lowering cholesterol and your risk of cancer.
Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) is an effective natural bacteria-fighting agent that contains many vital minerals and trace elements such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, chlorine, sodium, sulfur, copper, iron, silicon and fluorine that are vital for a healthy body.
A chemical-free astringent, ACV can be used topically to disinfect and sterilize.
6. Extra Virgin Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a natural antibiotic that has an antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal effect. It eliminates the growth of bacteria that results in acidification and fungal growth. Coconut oil gives your immune system an incredible boost while simultaneously thwarting the pathogens (microorganisms) in your mouth. Coconut oil completely eliminates the staphylococcus aureus bacteria. It has been amply demonstrated using scientific means that mono lauric acid (coconut oil) can remove the fatty protective layer from gram-positive bacteria.
Extra virgin organic coconut oil has a special ingredient called lauric acid in its fat. The human body converts lauric acid into monolaurin and this gives it its antibiotic, antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties. Monolaurin is classified as a monoglyceride which has the ability to eliminate viruses coated with fat. Some examples of these viruses are HIV, herpes, different strains of disease-causing bacteria, the ‘flu virus and measles. As a potent virus and bacteria killer, coconut oil is known to contain the maximum percentage of lauric acid. Another fatty acid called capric acid is also found in coconut oil and this has antimicrobial characteristics.
There is not enough that can be said for the benefits of coconut oil. It has naturally occurring anti-fungal and anti-microbial properties and is packed with antioxidants you can’t find anywhere else in nature. Use it to boost your immune system, balance thyroid, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels, and even improve brain function. Safe to use internally and externally, coconut oil is one of the most versatile and unique gifts from Mother Nature.
Stir a spoonful into your morning coffee for added energy and a clearer head all day.
7. Echinacea
With similar effects to garlic, Echinacea is well tolerated and able to stimulate the immune system by naturally boosting infection fighters in your blood stream. Native to North America, Echinacea has been used for centuries in tribal medicine to treat pain and sickness. The echinacea herb has a strong ability to stimulate your immune system to fight off infections.
This natural health remedy has a very effective action in the body to boost the production of interferon, a protein which is released by the body to prevent virus's from replicating themselves. Some of the known benefits of Echinacea are its ability to boost the strength of t-lymphocytes. T-cells are vital to the immune system as they help the body to increase the number of anti-bodies that you have circulating. They work to fight off pathogenic invaders and virus's, as well as increasing the ability of the white blood cells to deal with any virus's or other micro-organisms that you may encounter.
This herbal remedy is known to be very effective to strengthen immune system health and aid the immune system to fight the effects of colds and flu. Unlike garlic, this antibacterial, anti-fungal, anti-viral solution is generally used at the first signs of illness and should not be taken for more than ten days. It is available in liquid and capsule form.
8. Fermented Foods
Fermented foods carry all of the benefits of their raw components, as well as the proactive antimicrobial component of probiotics. These good bacteria are a large part of your bodies defence arsenal. Probiotics are one of the most incredible discoveries in the last decade. They work to boost and preserve the natural gut flora (good bacteria) found in your digestive system.
Research has proven that a balanced gut is one of the keys to overall wellness and cancer prevention. These good bacteria are so critical to your health that doctors now recommend a probiotic while their patients are on prescription antibiotics. Fermented foods are packed with antioxidants and microorganisms that your body processes far better than supplements. Unpasteurized sauerkraut, apple cider vinegar, raw pickles, probiotic yogurt, and kim chi (a Korean cabbage dish) are excellent ways to improve the balance in your intestines.
9. Colloidal Silver
A natural antibiotic, colloidal silver is a mixture of silver particles suspended in fluid that have been used for centuries. Colloidal silver works to kill off harmful bacteria by depriving them of their supply of oxygen. It also works against the enzyme that single-cell have to have to multiply. Because Colloidal silver is a heavy metal. too much of any heavy metal can be toxic so colloidal silver should only be used as a temporary treatment . Don’t forget to always check with your primary care physician before using any of these treatments !
This treatment is temporary since too much silver – a heavy metal – can be toxic. However, it disables the enzyme that single-cell bacteria require to multiply. Deprived of their oxygen supply, the bacteria and viruses are destroyed without damage to you.
10. Oil of Oregano and Other Herbs
Continued medical research has shown that many tried and true herbal remedies work as well today as they did hundreds of years ago. Essential oils created from herbs long determined to be beneficial to human health are rapidly becoming holistic medicine’s go-to item. Mediterranean countries are the home of many of the most powerful, including oregano.
Oil of oregano is considered anti-microbial, antibacterial, anti-parasitic, anti-viral, and anti-fungal. It can be used internally and externally in the treatment of wounds, respiratory problems, digestive upset, and even the common cold. Carvacrol, which is an ingredient found in oregano essential oil, has important healing properties. Oregano oil has been found to help heal gastric ulcers and reduce inflammation.
Packed with antioxidants known as phenols and flavonoids, it heals but also strengthens your immune system. The natural antibiotic properties of many herbs are only now being analyzed and confirmed by scientists around the world. They represent natural alternatives to boost your immunity and add an excellent variety to your food preparation.
You may also be able to eradicate bacteria in the home with a homemade cleaning agent consisting of oregano essential oil, vinegar, water, and lemon.
Thyme
Many all-natural household cleaners use thyme essential oil. This oil has been shown to be especially helpful against antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
In a 2011 study, researchers tested the effectiveness of both lavender and thyme essential oil. Both oils were testing in a pool of over 120 strains of bacteria. The researchers found thyme essential oil to be more effective at killing bacteria than lavender essential oil.
Allspice, thyme, cinnamon, basil, rosemary, turmeric, cayenne, chili peppers, cloves, ginger, anise, mustard seed, and fennel are just a few natural herbs you should consider adding to your daily diet. Some are available in essential oils that increase their healing power.
11. Cayenne Pepper
Science has confirmed that the benefits of cayenne pepper are valid, including its use as a natural antibiotic. One study in particular found that cayenne pepper is particularly effective for fighting vulvovaginitis, a common infection in women. The researchers discovered that cayenne pepper essential oil (specifically capsaicin) exerted a significant antifungal and antibiotic effect.
Cayenne pepper also called capsicum is a strong spice used for thousands of years for its healing power and antibiotic effects. It is important to properly use a carrier oil such as olive oil and thoroughly dilute cayenne pepper essential oil, however, as capsicum is quite burning upon initial contact with the skin. Cayenne pepper is also very effective to use as a home remedy for strep throat.
12. Ginger
Studies have shown that fresh ginger really does have an antibiotic effect against food borne pathogens such as salmonella, listeria and campylobacter. Fresh ginger also increases stomach acid production and helps calm indigestion when a meal just doesn’t agree with you.
Ginger (Zingiber officinale) has scientific backing as an anti-nausea agent. It may offer other benefits to those stricken with infections diarrhea. Alcohol extracts of ginger are active against bacteria that infect the intestinal tract (Salmonella typhimurium, Escherichia coli, Vibrio cholerae Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Helicobacter pylori), skin and other soft tissues (Staphylococcus aureus), and respiratory tract (Streptococcus pyogenes, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae). Ginger has antifungal activity against the yeast Candida albicans. It also discourages intestinal worms. Because studies have shown that heat deactivates the antibacterial effect, it may be best to consume ginger raw, or in tincture or capsule form.
The Master Tonic, a powerful anti-viral and natural antibiotic, includes plenty of fresh ginger as well as fresh cayenne pepper and garlic. This tonic is a highly effective concoction to make and take with you when traveling overseas in order to have a handy formula available that packs the punch of several natural antibiotics synergistically combined and fermented for maximum potency.
Prescribed antibiotics kill all bacteria – both the good and the bad – leaving your body stripped of its natural ability to fight infection and ward off illness. You are designed to heal yourself in most cases. By adding these natural food medicines to your life, you can actively work to keep your body healthy and in balance.