5 All Natural Antibiotic Alternatives

Antibiotics are perhaps one of the most important achievements mankind has ever enjoyed. Before the invention of antibiotics, simple infections often proved to be fatal; with the advent of their use, doctors could now save many lives that previously would have been lost.

There is, however, an unfortunate, darker side to antibiotics. We have seen in recent years how many bacteria have become resistant to antibiotics, to the point that they are virtually ineffective. This is worrisome; our primary defense against pathogenic bacteria no longer has the efficacy it once had.

Antibiotics, too, may have some side effects on our health that are not discussed as frequently as they should be. Broad-spectrum antibiotics kill bacteria without discriminating between which bacteria are bad, and which bacteria may be beneficial for our health. As a result, many of the beneficial cultures in the gut may be damaged or destroyed.

This paves the way for more insidious organisms to flourish: Yeasts.

Particularly when you factor in the typical Western diet that is high in refined carbohydrates and sugar, a yeast problem in the gut can quickly grow out of control. From flourishing in the gut, yeasts can spread throughout the body, causing problems that are difficult to diagnose.

Sometimes, antibiotics are necessary, and you should always heed your doctor’s advice if he or she prescribes them to you. However, it is well documented––even in mainstream literature––that antibiotics are often prescribed even when they are not needed. Perhaps, these powerful drugs should sometimes be left as the last line-of-defense.

Fortunately, there are many natural remedies to research for yourself that may work like antibiotics, but are safe and have other benefits for health. Here are five…

Garlic

Garlic is highly effective at killing a number of unwanted microbes; it has antibacterial, antiviral and anti fungal properties. Garlic is also an excellent prebiotic food, meaning instead of destroying beneficial bacteria, garlic actually supports those colonies. Garlic may also have some benefit against parasites.

Honey

Honey has been used medicinally for thousands of years, but in recent years, science has validated its use as a powerful. antimicrobial agent. Honey, particularly Manuka honey, is beneficial for fighting infections, both internally and topically. It is effective against a number of powerful (often antibiotic-resistant) bacteria, such as MRSA and Helicobacter Pylori.

Oregano Oil

This concentrated oil is a powerful anti-fungal, but its use is not relegated just to fighting fungi; oregano oil may assist in sinus infections or other infections. It can be taken under the tongue or applied topically.

Grapefruit Seed Extract

Grapefruit seed extract. or GSE is a powerful, infection fighting agent. It might be best to chase GSE with a good probiotic, as it is so powerful that it can damage beneficial bacterial colonies.

Turmeric

Among its legion of health benefits, turmeric may also be beneficial for infections, particularly in the stomach. It is known to fight ulcer-causing bacteria and provide relief from dyspepsia.