What are Antibiotics?
In a world where new illnesses are discovered every day, knowing about antibiotics is indeed something we need to duly take note of. Antibiotics are used to kill bacteria growth. Antibiotics have been around for centuries that have all evolved to today’s modern medicine. These are often derived from natural sources like plant extracts, essential oils, and certain foods—all of which have antibiotic properties. Some of these properties can prevent things like growth of bacteria in your food and relatively aid your personal hygiene!
Here are 5 Natural Antibiotics you can try at home:
1) Manuka Honey
We use honey in our daily lives. But, did you know that honey is also known as an ancient antibiotic? Yup, it’s actually one of the oldest. Because of its high sugar content, it’s a pretty good remedy to use for stopping the growth of certain bacteria. Honey also has a low pH level, meaning that it works as a means to get rid of moisture from bacteria and eventually causing the death of the bacteria due to its dehydration.
A good kind of honey is Manuka Honey. It has antibacterial capabilities, thus being named as nature’s richest antimicrobial sources. It is often used to treat and prevent growth of bacteria in wounds. You might want to try this 100% Raw Australian Manuka Honey.
Here’s how you can use it:
Take 1- 2 tablespoons of Manuka honey a day. You can try adding it to your toast, yogurt, or just eat it straight.
For open cuts or wounds, apply it to the infected area. This will certainly help in the healing process.
2) Garlic
Some people are not fans of garlic, maybe due to the fact that it may cause, well, garlic breath. Kidding aside, it’s good to know that it has some beneficial uses other than making your food taste great. It also is known to have antimicrobial properties, especially garlic concentrates and extracts. Garlic is absolutely safe to ingest; it’s even better when taken raw because that’s when its antimicrobial properties are strongest.
You can start by eating a clove per day to prevent infections. I find it best to take my garlic dose when it’s crushed or minced. I let it sit for about 10 minutes for the full effect. Be warned that large doses of garlic may cause internal bleeding, so it’s best to pace your intake. Here’s a garlic concentrate you can also take. Be sure to read the instructions and follow the dosage provided.
Also: if you are taking prescribed or taking blood-thinning medication, please consult your doctor before trying garlic as an antibiotic. Sometimes a large dose of garlic can intensify the effects of your medication.
3) Thyme Essential Oil
As a homemaker, I swear by thyme essential oil for household cleaning. I know of its effectiveness in killing bacteria. This is also why I only use it for external uses and do not take it by mouth. It’s good for open wounds and here’s how you can apply it:
Dilute the thyme essential oil with equal parts carrier oil (the most common carrier oils include olive and coconut oils) and apply it on the affected area. You can also put the mixture in a spray bottle and use it as needed. Make sure that you use a diluted version; undiluted essential oil may cause problems to your skin like some irritation and inflammation. You can use the Artizen Thyme 100% Pure and Natural Essential Oil.
Take note: If you are a person who suffers from high blood pressure or hyperthyroidism, do not use thyme essential oil.
4) Echinacea
A great way to not get sick is to take Echinacea. I’ve been taking this for as long as I can remember. It’s a tremendous immune system stimulator and support for fighting of infections, especially those that are caused by bacteria. It’s best to take when symptoms have started developing and is known to treat illnesses faster than some antibiotics.
You can purchase the Child Life Echinacea that comes in a pack of two. A study has stated that a good dosage to boost your immune system with Echinacea is about 10 milligrams per one kilogram of body weight.
5) Oregano Oil
Oregano Oil is a superb ingredient for many recipes for cooking. It is also a superb natural antibiotic. In fact, it is admirably the most powerful antibacterial essential oil. Carvacrol and Thymol are two antifungal and antibacterial elements—and Oregano Oil contains these. Here’s how you can use this:
Mix with water or coconut oil. Keep in mind to take very small dosages at a time, probably about 1-2 drops. It is essential to remember that the dosage depends on the illness or condition that you are treating. It is best to use a 100% therapeutic grade oil, like this Oregano Oil. Always remember that this should not be taken for more than 14 succeeding days. Additionally, consult with your doctor if you are taking any medications before taking this remedy.
Finally, just because natural antibiotics are effective for combating infections at home doesn’t also mean they’re safe to use with no supervision. Using natural antibiotics sometimes comes with a certain degree of risk. If you have a known medical condition, please consult your doctor prior to using any supplements and natural antibiotics.
