Ancient Civilizations

For thousands of years, ancient civilizations used what they found in nature to treat various ailments before Alexander Fleming discovered penicillin in 1928. The discovery and use of antibiotics meant a great deal in the saving of lives. Presently we face a major challenge due to antibiotic-resistant bacteria. In the U.S. alone, more than 35,000 people die each year from antibiotic-resistant bacteria or fungi. 

Natural Antibiotics

Antibiotic-resistant bacteria are not the only problem we currently face regarding synthetic antibiotics. There is also the potential damage they can cause to your natural gut-flora due to prolonged use. 

Hence it is a good idea to incorporate some natural antibiotics into your life. Natural antibiotics can be found in herbs, spices, and some foods. These have fewer side effects as associated with man-made antibiotics, Below you will find a list of some natural antibiotics that you can try for holistic healing.

10 Best Natural Antibiotics

Garlic 

The use of garlic had been present in many old cultures. Widely available, this ancient natural antibiotic is well known in the treatment of respiratory problems, toothache, yeast infection, and more. Another health benefits associated with garlic are its function in lowering blood pressure and cholesterol. 

Research has found that garlic can be an effective treatment against many forms of bacteria, including Salmonella and Escherichia coli (E. coli). Garlic has even been considered for use against multi-drug resistant tuberculosis.

Turmeric 

A commonly used ingredient in Indian food, also known as Haldi, it’s not only flavorful but a great natural antibiotic. Turmeric is effectively used in the treatment of UTI (Urinary Tract Infections). The active ingredient in turmeric is curcumin, which is an excellent anti-inflammatory. Added to these properties some recent studies had shown that turmeric may help to lower the risk of heart disease and arthritis pain. 

Ginger

Originally from Southeast Asia. Ginger not only adds tangy spicy notes to Asian dishes, but it also has antimicrobial properties. It’s used in Ayurvedic medicine as a natural antibiotic. Many health benefits have been associated with ginger intake such as lowering sugar levels, aid in chronic indigestion, reduce menstrual pain, and to alleviate morning sickness.

Honey

Since the time of Aristotle, honey has been used as an ointment that helps wounds to heal and prevents or draws out infection.

It is helpful in treating chronic wounds, burns, ulcers, bedsores, and skin grafts. The antibacterial effects of honey are usually attributed to its hydrogen peroxide content. However, manuka honey fights off bacteria, though it has a lower hydrogen peroxide content.

A 2011 study reported that the best-known type of honey inhibits approximately 60 kinds of bacteria. It also suggests that honey successfully treats wounds infected with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA).

Antibacterial properties aside, honey may help wounds to heal by providing a protective coating that fosters a moist environment.

Tea Tree Oil 

Has been used by aborigines in Australia over centuries. They crushed the leaves to obtain the oil that is later inhaled to treat coughs and colds. It can be also applied directly to the skin to treat cuts, acne, and skin irritations. Added to its antibacterial properties, tree tea oil can also be used as a hand sanitizer, insect repellent, natural deodorant, mouthwash, and all-purpose cleaner.

Echinacea

Echinacea is a daisy-looking flower that is mostly found in the eastern and central parts of North America. It has amazing inflammatory and antifungal properties. Together with its natural antibiotic quality, it has the capability of fighting strains of viruses such as influenza, rotavirus, and herpes. Echinacea is also known to boost the immune system. Echinacea comes in dry powder and liquid extract tincture forms. 

Clove

Clove has traditionally been used in dental procedures. Research is now finding that clove water extract may be effective against many different kinds of bacteria, including E. coli.

Research has found that clove oil may have benefits for dental and topical applications, for treating infections, and even fighting cancer.

Cloves are a treasure trove of anti-inflammatory compounds, which can come handy during times of sore throat, cough, cold and sinusitis. You can chew on some cloves raw, or mix it with hot water and drink it early in the morning and even mix it in your cup of chai.

Oregano

Most of us are familiar with the culinary uses of oregano in olive oil-based and tomato-centric dishes, but did you know that this Mediterranean herb also has important medicinal utility as an antibacterial and antifungal agent? 

In a review of studies focusing on the antibiotic and antimicrobial activities of several spices and their derivatives, researchers found that oregano was among the most effective natural antibiotics against several strains of bacteria and fungi—including Salmonella, Escherichia coli, and Bacillus subtilis—and was especially effective as an essential oil.

Other uses include treating menstrual cramps, rheumatoid arthritis, headaches, and heart conditions. The oil of oregano is taken by mouth for intestinal parasites, allergies, sinus pain, arthritis, cold and flu, swine flu, earaches, and fatigue.

Goldenseal

Commonly consumed as a tea or taken as a supplement, the herb goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) is often combined with echinacea for the prevention or treatment of the common cold.

It is also used in traditional medicine for the treatment of various infections related to the eyes, skin, and urinary tract, as well as for diarrhea, vaginitis, and canker sores.

Neem Oil

Neem oil is derived from the fruits and seeds of the neem tree (Azadirachta indica), which is endemic to the Indian subcontinent. Although neem oil has a gamut of uses in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, it is largely prized as an antibacterial and antifungal agent, and is used for the treatment of ringworm, head lice, bacterial infections of the skin, and other skin conditions like hives, eczema, psoriasis, and scabies.

With respect to skin diseases, neem has a remarkable effect on chronic skin conditions. Acne, psoriasis, eczema, ringworm and even stubborn warts are among the conditions that can clear up easily when high-quality, organic neem oil is used.