This article discusses 4 most common natural antibiotics that is easily available in the kitchen and some evidences supporting their effectiveness. At the end of the article, we’ll share a recipe of a home-made remedy antibiotic using the 4 most common natural antibiotics mixed with some usual health food stuff for you to try.
Antibiotic resistance is a growing public health concern. The World Health Organization has classified antibiotic resistance as one of the top ten global public health threats facing humanity. Natural antibiotics offer a potential solution to this problem. These antibiotics are compounds produced by living organisms that have antimicrobial properties.
1. Garlic
Garlic is a well-known herb with a distinct flavour and aroma that has been used as a natural remedy for a number of ailments, including infections, since ancient times. Garlic's antibacterial properties have been carefully investigated due to the fact that it may destroy a range of bacteria, viruses, fungus, and parasites. It is now widely recognised that garlic has potent antibacterial properties and can function as a natural antibiotic.
A study published in the Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy demonstrated that garlic extract works well against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), a kind of bacteria that is resistant to many antibiotics.
1.1 Allicin and Antibacterial Properties
The primary active ingredient in garlic responsible for its antibacterial properties is allicin, which is produced when garlic is chopped, crushed, or chewed. It releases an enzyme called alliinase, which converts alliin, a sulphur-containing compound, into allicin. Allicin is a potent antimicrobial compound that has been found to be effective against a wide range of bacteria, including some antibiotic-resistant strains which are becoming an increasing problem in modern medicine.
When garlic is consumed, allicin a highly reactive molecule enters the bloodstream and travels throughout the body, where it can help fight off bacterial infections. It disrupts the metabolism and cell membranes of microorganisms, damaging the cell walls of bacteria, which makes it difficult for them to survive and reproduce leading to their elimination. Studies have also shown that consuming garlic can reduce the severity and duration of colds and flu.
1.2 Other Anti-Bacteria Qualities
In addition to allicin, garlic contains other compounds that also have antibacterial properties, such as ajoene, alliin, and diallyl sulphide. These compounds work together to enhance garlic's overall antimicrobial activity.
Garlic's ability to kill bacteria has been demonstrated in several studies. One study found that garlic extract was effective against a range of bacteria, including Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Salmonella typhimurium. Another study showed that garlic extract could kill the bacteria responsible for causing dental caries.
1.3 Anti-Virus
Researchers have also looked into garlic's antiviral effects. It has been demonstrated that the human rhinovirus, herpes simplex virus, and influenza viruses are all resistant to it. Also, it has been discovered that garlic extract works well against a variety of viruses that are resistant to widely used antibiotics.
Garlic can strengthen the immune system and help the body fight off diseases that affect the respiratory and digestive systems. White blood cell production is elevated to combat infections. Another advantage of garlic is its high concentration of antioxidants, which encourage healing and lower inflammation.
1.4 Anti-Fungal
The antifungal effects of garlic have also been studied. It has been demonstrated to work well against the fungus Candida albicans, which can infect people. Athlete's foot and ringworm are only two examples of other fungal illnesses that garlic extract has been proven to be helpful against.
1.5 Garlic - A Natural Antibiotic
Even though it is a powerful natural antibiotic, garlic should not be used in place of prescription antibiotics when they are required. A healthcare provider should be consulted to decide the best course of action if you have a bacterial illness.
Garlic can be consumed in a variety of ways, including raw, cooked, or in supplement form. To get the most out of garlic's antibacterial properties, it is best to consume it raw or lightly cooked. Heating garlic for too long can destroy some of its beneficial compounds. In conclusion, garlic is a natural antibiotic that can help fight off bacterial infections. Its active ingredient allicin, along with other antibacterial compounds, work together to provide broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. Garlic's immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties can also aid in the healing process. Incorporating garlic into your diet can be a simple and effective way to support your overall health and well-being.
2. Pure Honey
Ancient civilizations like the Egyptians and the Greeks have long utilised honey as a natural sweetener because of its therapeutic benefits. Honey can function as a natural antibiotic, aiding in the killing of bacteria and preventing illnesses, according to recent studies. This is because honey contains a number of different substances, including polyphenols, bee peptides, and hydrogen peroxide.
2.1 The Antimicrobial Properties of Hydrogen Peroxide
Honey's capacity to make hydrogen peroxide is a crucial aspect of how it works as a natural antibiotic. A honey enzyme called glucose oxidase converts glucose to hydrogen peroxide when honey is diluted with water. This potent antibacterial substance can eliminate dangerous microorganisms and stop illnesses. Unfortunately, not all honey contains a lot of hydrogen peroxide, and heat or light can quickly render honey's antibacterial properties useless.
Several types of honey contain additional antimicrobial ingredients, such as Manuka honey from New Zealand. For instance, methylglyoxal (MGO), a substance found in manuka honey, has been demonstrated to have potent antibacterial activity against a variety of bacteria, including strains that are resistant to antibiotics.
2.2 Anti-Bacterial Qualities
According to a study that appeared in the Journal of Applied Microbiology, honey works well against a variety of bacteria, including MRSA. Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa are just a few of the microorganisms against which it has been demonstrated to possess antibacterial characteristics.
The presence of bee peptides in honey also makes it a natural antibiotic. They are tiny proteins made by bees and present in honey. They have been demonstrated to have antibacterial activity against a number of microorganisms, including the frequently antibiotic-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.
2.3 Antioxidant Qualities
Honey contains a variety of additional substances that support its antibacterial activities in addition to hydrogen peroxide. Strong antioxidants like flavonoids and phenolic acids, for instance, can aid in preventing cell damage and reducing inflammation. According to some research, honey can boost the immune system, which makes it easier for the body to fight off illnesses.
Honey offers a number of other ways to combat infection outside just its direct antibacterial capabilities. For instance, it has been demonstrated that honey is able to lessen inflammation, which can improve the body's immune system's ability to fight off diseases. Honey also has anti-inflammatory qualities that can assist lessen pain and swelling. Moreover, honey has been shown to facilitate wound recovery and lessen inflammation.
In addition, honey has a low pH, which can inhibit the growth of bacteria. Because bacteria require a supply of water to thrive and reproduce, the high sugar content in honey can have an osmotic impact that dehydrates bacteria and limits bacterial growth.
2.4 Honey – A Natural Antibiotic
Not all honey is made equal when it comes to its antibacterial characteristics, which is an important point to remember. As raw, unprocessed honey has not been boiled or filtered, which could degrade or eliminate some of the therapeutic components, it is generally thought to be the most effective. Choose a variety of honey that has been proven to be beneficial if you're using it as a natural antibiotic because different varieties of honey might vary greatly in their antibacterial activity.
Overall, honey's capacity to produce hydrogen peroxide, contain a variety of phytochemicals, and contain bee peptides make it a natural antibiotic. These elements make honey a beneficial substitute for traditional antibiotics since they can aid in destroying bacteria and preventing infections. Honey should not, however, be used as a substitute for antibiotics in cases of severe infection, and people who have bee product allergies should refrain from using honey for therapeutic purposes.
Honey can be a beneficial addition to your natural medicine cabinet and a delightful method to support your overall health and well-being, even while it shouldn't be used in place of current antibiotics in cases of serious diseases.
3. Turmeric
Turmeric a bright yellow spice commonly used in Indian cuisine, has been used in traditional medicine for centuries particularly in traditional Indian Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine due to its numerous health benefits. One of the most remarkable properties of turmeric is its ability to function as a natural antibiotic, thanks to its active compound, curcumin.
3.1 Curcumin and Antibacterial Properties
Curcumin has potent antimicrobial properties, making it effective against a variety of bacteria, viruses, and fungi. It works by disrupting the cell membrane of microorganisms, preventing them from replicating and spreading. Curcumin can also inhibit the growth of biofilms, which are communities of bacteria that can be particularly difficult to treat. Curcumin is a versatile natural antibiotic since it can attack a variety of bacteria, viruses, and fungus.
Studies have demonstrated that curcumin is effective against a range of bacteria, including the typical causes of illnesses Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The flu virus and the herpes simplex virus are only two examples of the viruses that curcumin has been demonstrated to be effective against.
There are many ways to ingest turmeric, either as a supplement or as a cooking spice. Black pepper, which can improve curcumin absorption, is advised to be consumed with turmeric to maximise its effectiveness as a natural antibiotic. According to one research, curcumin, which is present in turmeric extract, can effectively treat bacterial urinary tract infections. Another study concluded that curcumin and antibiotics worked better together to treat bacterial infections.
3.2 Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory
The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities of turmeric, in addition to its antibacterial capabilities, can help lower the chance of developing chronic illnesses including cancer and heart disease.
Curcumin contains anti-inflammatory qualities in addition to its direct antibacterial actions. Although it is the immune system's normal reaction to infection, prolonged inflammation can harm tissues and organs. By inhibiting the function of inflammatory chemicals in the body, curcumin can help decrease inflammation.
By stimulating the creation of white blood cells, which are in charge of warding off infections, curcumin can also help strengthen the immune system. Moreover, curcumin boosts the immune system, which makes it easier for the body to fight against illnesses. It has the ability to stimulate immune cells like macrophages, which are in charge of spotting and eliminating foreign intruders.
3.3 Turmeric's Natural Antibiotic
Overall, turmeric's inherent antibacterial characteristics make it a potent remedy for a variety of illnesses, such as skin infections, urinary tract infections, and lung infections. It can be ingested as a supplement or used as a spice in meals. The curcumin concentration of turmeric is quite low, hence large doses or supplements could be required to have antibacterial properties that are truly noticeable. Before using turmeric as a natural therapy, it's also crucial to speak with a doctor, especially if you're on medication or have a medical issue already.
Whilst turmeric can be a powerful natural cure for infections and other illnesses, it's vital to remember that it shouldn't be used in place of necessary medical care. Before taking turmeric supplements, anyone taking medication or with a medical condition should speak with their doctor.
4. Ginger
People have used ginger root as a medicine for thousands of years. Together with its culinary uses, ginger provides a number of health benefits, including the ability to act as a natural antimicrobial. It is recognised for having diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Ginger also possesses antibacterial properties, which can aid the body in fighting illnesses, according to current research.
Some of the compounds that have been found to have antibacterial properties in ginger include gingerol, shogaol, and zingerone. Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhimurium, Staphylococcus aureus, and other bacterial species have all been shown to be inhibited by these compounds.
4.1 Gingerol's antibacterial activities
Studies have shown that gingerol, the main ingredient in ginger that gives it its spiciness and pungent scent, has antimicrobial capabilities. These characteristics provide gingerol the ability to prevent the development of microbes like bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
Ginger has demonstrated efficacy against a variety of bacterial species, including those that conventional antibiotics are unable to treat. For instance, studies in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry showed that ginger extract was helpful in combating Salmonella and E. coli germs.
Researchers discovered that ginger extract might fight 11 different bacterial strains, including many resistant varieties, in a different study that was published in the same journal. A different research found that ginger can prevent the formation of Helicobacter pylori, a type of bacteria that can cause stomach ulcers.
According to another study, Porphyromonas gingivalis and Prevotella intermedia are just two of the bacterial strains that ginger extract was found to be effective against. The Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology also published this report.
4.2 Inhibitory Effects on Inflammation
In addition to its antibacterial effects, ginger also has anti-inflammatory roles. Although inflammation plays a crucial role in the immune system's reaction to infection, if it is not under control, it can cause damage to healthy tissues. Ginger can lessen inflammation, which can speed up the healing process. Moreover, it can help with symptoms including pain, fever, and oedema.
Antioxidants, which help guard the body against harm from free radicals, are abundant in ginger as well. Molecules called free radicals have the potential to harm cells and have a role in the emergence of chronic diseases.
Ginger has also been discovered to boost immunological function, which can improve the body's ability to fight off illnesses. This is so that white blood cells, which are in charge of combating infections, can function more effectively thanks to chemicals found in ginger.
4.3 Ginger, a natural antibiotic
Generally, using ginger to treat infections in the body is safe and beneficial. It can be eaten in a number of different forms, including as fresh, dried, powdered, or as a supplement. Although if it might not be as effective as prescription antibiotics, it can nevertheless be a helpful weapon in the fight against infections, especially when combined with other herbal therapies and traditional medical procedures. Before using ginger as an antibiotic, like with any natural medicine, it's vital to speak with a healthcare professional, especially if you have any underlying health concerns or are taking any pharmaceuticals.
4 most common natural antibiotics – the summary
Natural antibiotics offer a potential solution to the growing problem of antibiotic resistance. Garlic, honey, turmeric, and ginger have all been shown to have antimicrobial properties. However, more research is needed to determine their effectiveness and safety in humans. Natural antibiotics should not be used as a substitute for synthetic antibiotics without consulting a healthcare professional.
Here is a recipe of simple home remedy that can help boost your immune system and fight off microbial infections.
Homemade Anti-Microbial Remedy Recipe
Ingredients:
5 tablespoon of Apple Cider Vinegar (with mother)
¼ cup of pure honey
10 cloves of garlic
1 tablespoon of grated ginger
1 tablespoon of turmeric powder
1 lemon, juiced
1 cup of Rx Water or mineral water
Directions:
1. Peel and finely chop the garlic cloves and grate the ginger.
2. In a small saucepan, mix the apple cider vinegar, honey, garlic, ginger, and turmeric powder. Add water.
3. Heat the mixture over low heat until the honey is dissolved, stirring occasionally.
4. Remove the mixture from heat and let it cool to room temperature. {At this point, you may want to blend the mixture in a blender as an option.}
5. Squeeze the juice of one lemon into the mixture and stir well.
6. Pour the mixture into a glass jar and store it in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
To use:
Shake the mixture well before using. Take 1-2 tablespoons of the mixture whenever you feel unwell or off-beat to help boost your immune system and fight off infections. You can also use the mixture as a throat gargle and daily 1 tablespoon intake or topical remedy by diluting it with water and applying it to the affected area.
Note:
This remedy is not intended to replace medical treatment for serious infections. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical attention. Additionally, consult with a healthcare provider before using this remedy if you are taking any medications or have any medical conditions.
[This article and homemade remedy recipe was inspired by Dr. Azham Adam of DND Clinic from one of his Facebook live sessions.]
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However, if you can't stand the strong taste of the homemade remedy, there are supplements available that provides similar anti-microbial benefits minus the taste yet easy to consume.