Essortment: Natural Remedies with Antibiotic Properties

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Misty L. Trepke

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http://www.essortment.com/lifestyle/naturalremedies_skvg.htm

 

Natural remedies with antibiotic properties

With the skyrocketing costs of healthcare and prescription drugs,

many people are opting to treat minor ailments themselves with

natural remedies.

 

 

 

Contributing to the popularity of natural remedies is the fact that

they are over the counter preparations and can be obtained without a

prescription. They also tend to have fewer side effects than many

popularly prescribed medications. Another consideration is the over

use of prescription antibiotics. While antibiotics are considered

one of the greatest medical discoveries, they have been overused and

often in unwarranted circumstances. Many illnesses are viral in

nature, and antibiotics cannot combat viruses. Still, they are

frequently prescribed for viral infections.

 

The overuse of antibiotics has contributed to " super-strains " of

some illnesses, which are resistant to prescription drugs. Some

natural remedies work especially well on these resistant bugs. The

following list offers information about natural remedies that are

believed to have antibiotic properties as well as other healthful

benefits:

 

 

 

ECHINACEA

 

 

Echinacea purpurea -high quality Echinacea- not only has antibiotic

properties but also contains antibacterial and antiviral properties.

Echinacea is recommended for strengthening and stimulating the

immune system, and is said to be effective in combating colds, flu,

staph and many other infections as well as viruses. It can also be

used in topical solutions for external injuries and infections.

 

 

GARLIC

 

 

Many studies show that fresh cloves or garlic extracts have very

powerful antibiotic properties, and antibacterial, antiviral, and

antifungal assets as well. Garlic is known to strengthen the immune

system, making it a good defense against colds, flu, and throat or

upper respiratory infections. Research indicates that garlic is a

good choice against resistant bacteria. It has also been noted that

in areas where large quantities of fresh garlic are used regularly,

there are fewer reported cases of serious health problems. Garlic

may help lower cholesterol and is believed to be effective in aiding

cardiovascular health.

 

 

 

GOLDEN SEAL

 

 

Golden Seal is also believed to help fight infection and virus, but

may not actually stimulate the immune system directly. It is

frequently used to fight common cold and flu symptoms, other upper

respiratory problems, and urinary tract and vaginal infections.

Golden Seal and Echinacea are often combined. Those suffering from

hypertension must consult with a healthcare professional before

using Golden Seal.

 

 

HONEY

 

 

Honey is a remarkable natural remedy that can be used both topically

and internally. Honey also stimulates and strengthens the immune

system. It is believed to be more potent than typical antibiotics

when it comes to ulcers, burns, and infections, and it may even

inhibit gangrene. Honey is also widely recognized as being effective

in the treatment of upper respiratory problems including allergies,

sinus infections, colds, flu, asthma, and bronchitis. Honey is

sometimes mixed with garlic for use in soothing colds and sore

throats.

 

 

USNEA

 

 

Usnea works in much the same way as prescription antibiotics, but

without the side effects. It kills " bad " bacteria, including

resistant strains, without destroying " good " bacteria. Usnea is

known for treatment of upper respiratory problems, vaginal

infections, fungi, and external injuries or infections. It can be

used topically at the site of infection, or it can be taken

internally to aid immune function.

 

 

These products, like most natural remedies, have not been evaluated

or endorsed by the Food and Drug Administration. Please consult with

a doctor or pharmacist before use. Inform these professionals of any

prescription drugs you are currently taking, as some remedies can

interact negatively with certain drugs. These remedies should not be

used by pregnant women or nursing mothers unless under the direct

advice and supervision of a healthcare professional.