Antibiotics have become one of the most overused medications in modern medicine. The organisms are increasingly becoming resistant to these antibiotics due to the overuse and overexposure. According to a recent survey, around 2 million people get infected each year with antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the US. Out of these mind-boggling numbers, 23,000 people die every year from these infections. There are many super-bugs that are claiming lives all around the world because of their drug- resistance. Streptococcus pneumonia, MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus), Neisseria gonorrhoeae are only a few examples of the drug resistant bacteria.
The answer to this problem cannot be more antibiotics. Then what can we do to fight these organisms and save ourselves? Nature can help us with that. There are lots of naturally available antibiotics that can help us fight against these infections. Some of those natural remedies have been listed below.
1. Naturally Extracted Raw Honey
Naturally extracted honey can be a wonderful natural remedy for many ailments. Raw honey is laden with several important nutrients like amino acids, minerals, vitamin B, anti-microbial elements and powerful anti-oxidants. Adding honey to your daily life can boost your immunity and provide several other health benefits. Honey contains propolis and bee pollen which are known for their immunity boosting properties.
Researches have found amazing results with honey. Honey serves as an incredible remedy for cold and cough. It has been found effective in treating midnight cough in children and can also help in inducing sleep. In another research, honey was found effective in treating diabetic foot ulcers. Honey was more effective than saline for the treatment of diabetic foot ulcer.
Honey was found to have a better prophylactic effect than fluroquinolones on cataract patients in reducing complications related to cataract operations. The diminishing effect of fluroquinolones has been associated with antibiotic resistance. In another research, honey served as a better analgesic than acetaminophen post tonsil removal surgeries. Honey helped the patients to return to their regular diet faster than the other medicines.
Manuka honey from New Zealand has been found effective against MRSA due to the high content of methylglyoxal present in it.
2. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil has recently found lots of fame because of the health benefits associated with it. Coconut oil is a natural and potent antibiotic. Coconut oil contains several types of healthy fats like medium chain triglycerides, which can be beneficial against fungi, bacteria and virus. Examples of some of the fatty acids are capric acid, lauric acid and caprylic acid. Coconut oil can provide amazing remedy for various skin conditions. Coconut oil has been found really effective against atopic dermatitis. Atopic dermatitis occurs due to over-exposure of the skin to antibiotic creams for preventing infections. Staphylococcus aureus is one of the most common skin-dwelling bacteria. Coconut oil can be used as an alternative medicine for treating this drug-resistant bacteria.
3. Garlic
Garlic is an incredibly effective antibiotic. It contains an array of enzymes and nutrients that can help in providing protection against fungal infections. An experiment was conducted with Aged Garlic Extract (AGE) with two groups of subjects. And garlic showed wonderful results against cold and flu in this experiment. Garlic contains a powerful component called allicin, which has incredible antibiotic properties. The best way to use this component is to cut the garlic and keep it exposed for 10 to 15 minutes before using it. This will help in activating allicin.
4. Oil Of Oregano
Oregano oil shows potent anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-viral activities. This culinary gem can be really beneficial during the flu season. It shows strong activity against norovirus. Hence, it can be used as a sanitizer around the house, schools etc.
We can turn to nature for answers and protection against microbial infections without giving it a second thought. These natural antibiotics are potent and provide little to no side effects.
