4/2/2020 5 Natural Antibiotics to Try at Home

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What Are the Most Effective Natural

Antibiotics?
Medically reviewed by Debra Sullivan, PhD, MSN, RN, CNE, COI on October 7,
2019 — Written by Chaunie Brusie, RN, BSN

Honey Garlic Myrrh Thyme Oregano Takeaway

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How this works.

Do natural antibiotics really work?

Antibiotics are used to kill or inhibit bacteria growth. Although you might
think of antibiotics as modern medicine, they’ve actually been around for
centuries. The original antibiotics, like a lot of today’s antibiotics, are
derived from natural sources.

Certain plant extracts, essential oils, and even foods have antibiotic
properties. For example, some food and vegetable extracts can prevent
the growth of bacteria in food.

Sometimes, these properties extend beyond the food and can aid in your
personal hygiene. Cranberry extract contains both antibacterial and
antioxidant compounds, making it a home remedy for urinary tract
infections (UTIs).

Herbs can be antibiotics, too. A small sampling study of 58 Chinese plants

found that 23 had antibacterial properties and 15 had antifungal
properties.

A 2014 study  found that an herbal therapy was just as effective as a

chemical antibiotic in treating a small intestine bacterial overgrowth
disorder. ADVERTISEMENT
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Keep reading to learn about five popular antibiotics that you can try at
home.
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Option 1: Honey

Honey is one the oldest known antibiotics, tracing back to ancient times.
Egyptians frequently used honey as a natural antibiotic and skin
protectant.

Honey contains hydrogen peroxide  , which may account for some of its
antibacterial properties. It also has a high sugar content, which can help

stop the growth Aof
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certain bacteria.

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Additionally, honey has a low pH level. This works to pull moisture away
from bacteria, causing the bacteria to get dehydrated and die off.

To use honey as an antibiotic, apply it directly to the wound or infected

area. The honey can help kill off the bacteria and aid in the healing
process. If possible, opt for raw Manuka honey. This form of honey offers
the most health benefits. You can purchase raw Manuka honey here.

You can also ingest honey to aid in the treatment of internal infections.
Simply swallow a whole tablespoon or stir it into a warm cup of herbal tea
for a soothing treat.

Honey is generally safe to use on the skin or in the body, though you
should never give honey to an infant under 1 years old. Instead, consult
your healthcare provider for an appropriate alternative.

Option 2: Garlic extract

Garlic has long been thought to have antimicrobial properties. A 2011

study found that garlic concentrate is effective against bacteria. You can
purchase garlic concentrate or extract at your local health food store. You
may also be able to make your own by soaking a few garlic cloves in olive
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Garlic is generally safe to ingest, but large doses might cause internal
bleeding. Up to two cloves per day is considered an acceptable dosage. If
you’re taking a garlic supplement, be sure to follow the dosage directions
as provided.

If you’re taking blood-thinning medication, consult your healthcare

provider before using garlic as an antibiotic. Large doses of garlic can
amplify the effects of this medication.

You can also apply garlic concentrate directly to a wound or blemish.

Find a variety of garlic supplements here.

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Essential Oil Consultant - Fra

ingredients
42 years Essential Oil Experience Impartial Advice

Option 3: Myrrh extract

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Many people are familiar with myrrh, but its ability to ward off harmful
germs isn’t as widely known.

Researchers in a 2000 study concluded that an extract of myrrh could kill

off several everyday pathogens. This includes:

E. coli
Staphylococcus aureus
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Candida albicans

Myrrh is generally well-tolerated, but ingesting it may cause diarrhea. If

applying myrrh to the skin, it’s possible to experience a small skin rash. If
consumed in large doses, myrrh may cause heart problems.

Myrrh is typically prepackaged, so be sure to follow the dosage

instructions on the label.

Buy myrrh extract now.

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Option 4: Thyme essential oil

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Many all-natural household cleaners use thyme essential oil. This oil has
been shown to be especially helpful against antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

In a 2011 study  , researchers tested the effectiveness of both lavender

and thyme essential oil. Both oils were tested in a pool of over 120 strains
of bacteria. The researchers found thyme essential oil to be more
effective at killing bacteria than lavender essential oil.

Thyme essential oil is for external use only. You shouldn’t take thyme oil
by mouth. Before applying to the affected area, be sure to dilute the
essential oil with equal parts carrier oil. Common carrier oils include
coconut and olive oils.

Applying undiluted essential oil to the skin may cause inflammation and
irritation.

People with high blood pressure or hyperthyroid problems shouldn’t use

thyme essential oil.

Purchase thyme essential oil and a carrier oil now.

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Option 5: Oregano essential oil

Carvacrol is an ingredient found in oregano essential oil. It has important

therapeutic properties that further activate healing in the body when
inhaled. Oregano oil has been found to help heal gastric ulcers and
reduce inflammation.

To treat fungal infections on your skin, add one drop of oregano essential
oil per teaspoon of a carrier oil such as olive or coconut oil . Apply the
mixture to the affected area.

You can also diffuse oregano oil in the air to help clear sinus infections.
You shouldn’t ingest oregano essential oil or use undiluted essential oil
on the skin.

You may also be able to eradicate bacteria in the home with a homemade
cleaning agent made of:

oregano essential oil

vinegar

water

lemon 
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Buy oregano essential oil here.

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The bottom line

Be sure to discuss your interest in natural antibiotics with your healthcare
provider. They can help you explore your options and help you weigh the
potential benefits and risks of each regimen.

You shouldn’t take antibiotics unless absolutely necessary. Taking

antibiotics for the sake of taking antibiotics can lead your body to build up
a resistance to the medication. You can learn ways to help prevent
antibiotic resistance here.

If your healthcare provider does prescribe you antibiotics, be sure to

finish the entire treatment regimen.

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