Antibiotics From Nature

The issues with antibiotics and antibiotic-resistant bacteria have received a great deal of attention recently.

The growing concern is that since bacteria have been exposed to antibiotics for many years now, they have adapted by building a resistance to the antibiotics, creating "superbugs."

The harsh actuality is that minor bacterial infection that would once surrender easily to prescribed antibiotics, are no longer affected and therefore allowing the infection to escalate. Many cases are now surfacing of minor infection turning into more serious illnesses, even life threatening.

As remarkable as it is, natural herbs and spices that contain antibiotic properties appear to evade the ‘bacterial adapting process’ and therefore do not appear to produce resistant bacteria. Antibiotic herbs and spices can be utilized for minor infections and as an antiseptic to prevent infection. Here are some of the more useful antibiotic herbs that you can easily purchase from your health store.

Echinacea
You may already be aware of the health benefits relating to this herb during cold and flu season, and for good reason. In the case of colds and influenza viruses, echinacea is a powerful antibiotic and anti-viral. Echinacea is also a powerful antiseptic to treat sore throats, and has even been found beneficial in the treatment of external wounds.

How Is It Used?

A herbal root tea is produced from steeping the echinacea's roots, although not particularly tasty, it can be safely consumed at times when a natural antibiotic is required. Echinacea tincture diluted in warm water, and used to gargle, provides an excellent sore throat remedy. Both of these methods can also be used as a wash for superficial cuts and scrapes.

Garlic
This potent but very effective herb is a natural antibiotic powerhouse. Garlic is also widely available and inexpensive to purchase. Garlic promotes healthy functioning of the heart and immune systems with antioxidant properties and helps maintain healthy blood circulation.

How Is It Used?

Garlic is usually sliced or minced and included to various cuisines from pasta to salad. The potent compounds of garlic work best when taken internally. A broth can be made by boiling then simmering garlic in water, this broth can be used for ear drops to address ear infections.  This natural antibiotic is well known for the treatment of upper respiratory infections. Numerous health practitioners believe that the most effective use is as juice, either crushed or minced.

Ginger
This natural antibiotic is alleged to be highly effective against E. coli and Salmonella, both of which are foodborne bacteria that can cause considerable illness and in certain cases even cause death. Ginger has also been reported to be effective in the treatment and cure of ulcers.

How Is It Used?

A herbal root tea is produced by steeping the fresh ginger root, or the dried and ground root. The fresh root is readily available and inexpensive to purchase. A decoction can also be produced by gently simmering fresh ginger slices in water, sweeten with raw honey, and drinking the result. Consuming glazed or candied ginger is used to fight infection and  also found beneficial for the treatment of ulcers.

Goldenseal
This natural antibiotic is so effective as a natural antibiotic that it can affect intestinal flora and should not be consumed for more than a few weeks at a time. Goldenseal gets its name from the colour of its roots, these are used medicinally for both topical and internal application.

How Is It Used?

A herbal root tea is produced from steeping the goldenseal roots. Goldenseal has acquired an excellent reputation as an effective eye wash for infections in and surrounding the eye. This same solution also provides a very good wash for cuts and scrapes, and can even be used on surgical wounds.

The true medicinal value of herbs and spices is now unveiled!