Natural Alternatives to Antibiotics

Did you know that nature has provided to us an alternative to the chemical antibiotics that the doctor might prescribe; depending upon the ailment?

I learned this lesson the hard way. After many years of fighting the pain and discomfort of bladder infections, all it took was my doctor in Germany sending me down to the supermarket to pick up some special tea. Even though this herbal alternative to the antibiotics that I had always been prescribed in the past, didn't bring instant relief; it brought a more lasting relief, because I didn't have trouble with it again, for years.

After this experience, I started doing research on the use of alternative medicine, in particular natural antibiotics. I was amazed to discover that on the first onset of a cold, two Vitamin C tablets and two garlic tablets, taken three times a day can drastically shorten the effects of a cold. If you put a pinch of cayenne pepper in a cup of hot water, and drink it down while hot, will keep the mucous flowing, and not lead to congestion and headache.

I have here a list of natural alternatives to the antibiotics that are commonly prescribed, and how to use them.

Natural Alternative to Antibiotics #1 - Vitamin C

Vitamin C protects the body from infection, and it also helps the immune system to get stronger. Normal consumption of Vitamin C can be attained from green vegetables, berries and citrus fruits, though sweet peppers pineapple, strawberries and tomatoes are excellent sources as well.

If you feel a cold or ailment coming on, you might consider adding a vitamin C supplement until the symptoms subside.

Natural Alternative to Antibiotics #2 - Garlic

Ever since the days of old, Garlic has been considered one of our most valuable food sources. The reason for this is, when Garlic is eaten, an enzyme is released that has an antibiotic effect, with an antibacterial action that is equivalent to one percent that of penicillin.

Natural Alternative to Antibiotics #3 - Aloe

Though aloe is used in many hair and beauty products, it is also well known for its healing properties. Not only does aloe promote the healing of burns and other wounds, but when its gel is squeezed over a cut, wound or burn, it dries into a natural bandage, thus helping to fight infection in that area.

Natural Alternative to Antibiotics #4 - Bee Balm and Lemon Balm

These two plants contain a chemical that help to fight many infection causing bacteria. As an added benefit, it also contains eugenol, which is an anesthetic that helps to relieve some of the pain of a wound.

Natural Alternative to Antibiotics #5 - Echinacea

Echinacea contains a natural antibiotic that kills a wide range of viruses, bacteria and fungi.

Echinacea can be consumed as a tea to aid in the treatment of colds and flu.

Nature provides many alternatives to antibiotics, and has for many years. In the early years of our country, doctors were very scarce. Families relied on the healing properties of herbs to treat their infections and illnesses. Though we have many doctors and hospitals available now, with near unaffordable health care costs, we are seeing a revival of people using natural alternatives to antibiotics and medicine.

Resources:

"Prescription of Nutritional Healing" by James Balch, MD - Phyllis Balch, CNC
"The Healing Herbs" by Michael Castleman