In the age of advancements and modern medical sciences, take a look at these natural remedies which would not leave you worried about side-effects.
Editor’s note: This article was originally published on September 6, 2019. It has since been updated.
Even though there have been advancements in the field of medicine and science that can cure any disease, sometimes it's best to go back to the roots and pay attention to what nature has to offer.
Bacteria is one of the most common agents that causes illness. According to Healthline, if you come in contact with harmful bacteria or pathogenic bacteria, it could cause disease and illnesses like strep throat, staph infections, cholera, tuberculosis, and food poisoning.
Here are some natural antibiotics that can kill pathogenic bacteria in your body:
Honey is a known antibacterial agent. It contains Hydrogen Peroxide which grants it the antibacterial properties. It is also high in sugar content which helps to curb the growth of certain bacteria in the body. Also, its low pH level dehydrates the bacteria and leaves it lifeless.
Garlic has long been known for having antibacterial properties. A rich source of phytochemicals, garlic has traditionally been used to treat many health conditions, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease, etc., according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH). A 2011 study published in NBI found out that garlic has antimicrobial properties. You may swallow a clove of garlic every morning or make your own oil by soaking few garlic cloves in olive oil. Garlic oil can also be used on wounds, blemishes and dry skin.
Myrrh is a reddish-brown dried sap from a thorny tree Commiphora myrrha, native to northeastern Africa and southwest Asia. It has long been used in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicines for healing a range of issues like indigestion, colds, soreness, bad oral health, etc. In a 2000 study, researchers confirmed that Myrrh extract is effective in killing pathogenic bacteria. Ancient Egyptians were believed to have used Myrrh extract along with other essential oils to embalm mummies, which scientists later learnt was because the oils helped to kill bacteria and other microbes. While there are no serious side-effects of Myrrh, it is always advisable to not surpass the prescribed dosage.
It adds bags of flavor to your pastas and pizzas, but there's more to this herb than that. According to Healthline, oregano has been found to heal gastric ulcers and fungal infections on the skin. You can inhale oregano essential oil by adding a few drops of it in water and steaming it. Alternatively, you can also add a few drops of the oil in water and apply it in the affected area. Oregano essential oil should not be applied or inhaled in undiluted form.
Ginger is arguably one of the most commonly used ingredients for multiple bodily issues. Not only is it an anti-inflammatory agent and a great pain reliever but it also helps relieve nausea, loss of appetite, and motion sickness. It can be applied or consumed in the form of oil, tablets, candies, etc.
Coconut oil is laden with antiviral and antifungal properties. A natural antibiotic, it helps cure coughs, candida, inflammation, and even warts. Coconut oil is rich in 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. Its antimicrobial property does not allow bacteria to harm your immune system or enter your digestive system. It is a versatile product and can be consumed and applied in multiple forms.
While scientists are acknowledging its useful properties of late, our grandparents have always made us aware of the benefits of chewing cloves on our oral health. Studies show that cloves effectively kill off bacteria, gingivitis, and plaque, which may help reduce inflammation of the gums. It has also been proven via an experiment that a home-made mouthwash comprising of cloves, basil and tea-tree oil killed greater number of oral bacteria than store-bought mouthwash.
References:
https://www.healthline.com/health/natural-antibiotics#oregano
https://www.thieme-connect.de/products/ejournals/abstract/10.1055/s-2000-8532
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3147487/
https://www.livestrong.com/article/320227-how-to-use-coconut-oil-for-infection/
Disclaimer : This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
