How Natural Antibiotics Work
Antibiotic/Antiviral herbs all display properties to decrease rogue bacteria and viruses in the body. However, these herbs won’t strip the body of its good bacteria used properly. Herbs in this category also have antiviral components that help increase killer T-cells, lymphocytes and interferons. By using herbs with these cellular components, the body is able to combat harmful bacteria and viruses, giving us what we know as immunity. The use of these herbs will cut the need for prescription antibiotics which are harsh and strips the body of all bacteria, good and bad.
Natural antibiotics work in two major ways. The first of those is where they simply kill off the harmful bacteria. In the process, they will tend to inevitably kill some useful bacteria too. But that is seen as a small price to pay, compared to the likely effects of continued unchecked proliferation of harmful bacteria in a person’s body. In any case, the number of useful bacteria that are killed in the process is very small, especially compared to that which would tend to be killed by synthetic antibiotics (which have been described as being “ruthlessly efficient”).
Natural antivirals help to overwhelm viruses by interfering with their replication cycle and inhibiting their activities. Usually viruses attach to host cells where they interfere with natural cellular functions which result in infections or disease. The referenced herbs have innate antiviral properties which are mainly designed to offer relief and stimulate immune system functions. In a sense, these herbs offer a naturally adaptable solution in which the body develops a strong defense against viral activities.
In boosting the body’s production of antiviral agents such as the infection fighting white blood cells, antiviral herbs can significantly reduce the symptoms of viral infections and diseases.
Natural Antiviral/Antibiotic Foods
The second way in which some natural antibiotics work is by strengthening the body’s natural immunity, so that the body is better capable of fighting off the harmful bacteria and their effects. Long before Alexander Fleming, a Nobel Prize-winning bacteriologist, discovered these antibacterial medications, they existed naturally in different foods, fruits and herbs.
Natural antibiotics and antivirals occur largely in onions and garlic, herbs, honey, cabbage, and fermented foods such as raw unpasteurized sauerkraut, raw pickles, and probiotic yogurt. All of these foods boost your immune system and have antibiotic properties. These foods support healthy digestion and will help your body’s defense against infectious diseases.
While herbs are usually known for their culinary roles, there are some herbs that are established as natural remedies for viral infections. Their natural medicinal properties present excellent alternatives to common antiviral drugs. Unlike chemical drugs, these herbs safely offer a reliable defense against a full spectrum of viruses.
Garlic is perhaps an age-old tool for healing. It is also a potent anti-pathogen herb that can fight infectious viruses, bacteria, fungi and other known parasites. In some cases, fresh garlic juice is even more potent than pharmaceutical antiviral drugs as its healing properties can quickly penetrate any part of the body, speed up healing and inhibit infection.
Foods high in vitamin C such as cabbage, kale, oranges and citrus fruits, tomatoes, papaya, bell peppers, and kiwi all have great immune boosting natural antibiotic properties. These fruits and vegetables are packed with antioxidants that help protect cells against free radicals (unstable molecules) that may cause cancer.
Raw sauerkraut, raw pickles, and probiotic yogurt contain good microorganisms that aid in digestion. These good bacteria replace bad bacteria in the gut, providing further defense against infection. Eating a diet high in these types of foods will help you fight off bad bacteria and improve your overall health and well-being.
Echinacea is an antiviral herb that fights infection by delivering immune stimulating effects. In this sense, it helps double or even quadruple the amount of immune cells and chemicals to reverse sluggish immune system functions and optimize the body’s defense against viral infections.
Goldenseal is another antiviral and antibacterial herb that offers milder antiviral action, making it excellent for curing viral infections of sensitive parts of the body.
Other powerful antiviral herbs include oregano, Siberian ginseng, astralagus, peppermint, juniper, elderberry, burdock and licorice. Astralagus is an effective antiviral remedy for viral conditions such as flu and cold. Elderberry offers antiviral, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory relief to common colds, flu and upper respiratory tract infection.
Andrographis has potent anti-inflammatory and antimalarial properties, as well as antimicrobial properties to fight off and prevent infections from harmful microorganisms such as viruses, bacteria and fungi. Isatis root reduces fever and swelling caused by bacterial infections. Dandelion Root helps lessen inflammation and kills bacteria. Pulsatilla Radix is an effective cure for the bad bacteria found in the stomach. Poria helps boost the immune system, fights inflammation and viral infections in the intestines.
As you can see, there are many foods to incorporate into your diet and herbs that can be used safely to help boost your immune system, fight infection, and keep your body in check during this flu season.
For educational purposes only. Consult your physician for any health problems.