8 Natural Antibiotics To Try At Home

Natural antibiotics are a powerful weapon against bacteria. If you're wary of the side effects of synthetics drugs, natural antibiotics are a fantastic alternative.

You probably already have some natural antibiotics lurking in your kitchen cupboard. Here are a few of the most common natural antibiotics and how to use them:

Why Natural Antibiotics?

There's a lot of talk about natural antibiotics these days. Why all the fuss?

Natural antibiotics are useful tools as bacteria becomes resistant to synthetic drugs. Natural antibiotics also tend to have fewer side effects than their synthetic counterparts. And let's be honest, who doesn't love a natural remedy?

According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, scientists are seriously considering natural antibiotics as alternatives to conventional drugs. This is because of the ever-increasing problem of antibiotic resistance and drug resistant bacteria.

And that's not all. You can use these powerful weapons against bacteria to treat everything from the common cold to skin infections.

Plus, natural antibiotics are unlikely to wipe out the good bacteria in your gut—something that's a big concern with synthetic drugs.

So, if you're looking for an effective way to fight bacterial infections, explore the natural antibiotics we've curated for you.

Common Natural Antibiotics and How to Use Them

#1. Honey

Yes, honey has antibacterial properties!

Honey has been used as a natural antibiotic for centuries. It was even used in Ancient Egyptian and Greek medicine.

Raw honey contains an enzyme that produces hydrogen peroxide—a natural antiseptic that makes it very effective in treating wounds and burns topically. Try using Manuka honey for the best results.

#2. Garlic

Garlic is a natural antibiotic powerhouse. It has properties helpful in treating colds and severe bacterial infections like bronchitis and tuberculosis.

Garlic contains allicin—a natural compound that helps to fight bacteria. Allicin is released when garlic is chopped or crushed, so it's important to use fresh garlic for the best results.

You can take garlic in supplement form or add it to your cooking.

#3. Thyme Essential Oil

You've probably been using thyme in your cooking without even realizing its wonderful health benefits. But this common herb can do more than just add flavor to your food.

Thyme essential oil contains thymol—a natural compound with powerful antibacterial properties.

You can use thyme essential oil topically to treat everything from acne to cold sores. Add a few drops to a cotton ball and apply it to the affected area.

Thyme essential oil is also one of the strongest natural antibiotics for tooth infections. So, this is definitely worth a try if you have a toothache.

#4. Oregano Oil

If you want a natural antibiotic with anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties, oregano oil is a great option. It contains carvacrol—a natural compound that helps fight many strains of bacteria.

For most fungal infections, from athlete's foot to candida, oregano oil is your go-to natural antibiotic.

To use oregano oil, add a few drops to a cotton ball and apply it topically to the affected area.

#6. Goldenseal

Goldenseal is a fantastic, naturally antibiotic plant. It can be used as a cream, ointment or salve to treat cuts, bruises, insect bites and other skin problems.

It can also be taken internally with tea or in capsule form to treat respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections and digestive problems.

#7. Echinacea

Echinea is great for fighting illnesses like a cold or the flu. This natural antibiotic can help to reduce the severity and duration of colds and other respiratory bacterial infections.

Bursting with antioxidants and natural compounds, echinacea can boost your immune system and fight off infection.

Native Americans have used this natural antibiotic for centuries and many continue to use it today, so we can definitely trust its effectiveness!

#8. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is great for treating all sorts of issues. Traditionally, it's used as a medicinal agent for diabetes, cancer, dry skin, psoriasis, and other dermal infections.

The medicinal properties of coconut oil are attributed to its 3 main fatty acids: lauric acid, capric acid, and caprylic acid. These acids disrupt bacterial, viral, and fungal cell membranes which leads to cell death.

You can apply coconut oil topically or ingest it orally. Try adding a spoonful to your coffee each morning!

Conclusion

Nature has provided us with many powerful antibiotics that can be used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections. From oregano oil to honey to essential oil, there's a natural antibiotic for everything.

Even as research discovers new synthetic drugs, natural antibiotics always has a place in our medicine cabinets.

So, include some of these in your home remedy repertoire and be prepared for whatever life throws your way!