There are a lot of myths associated with antibiotics and it is only appropriate that facts are presented to allow for clear understanding of antibiotics and how they work once ingested. Some of the myths & facts are discussed below:
- Basically, conventional antibiotics, also known as fluoroquinolones are drug formulations whose action is against harmful bacteria in the body. In this case, antibiotics such as penicillin, ampicillin, amoxicillin and benzylpenicillin are very effective in treating bacterial infections. Such infections include tuberculosis, salmonella and syphilis amongst other bacterial infections.
- Contrary to popular beliefs that have sadly developed into myths, not all antibiotics act against all types of bacteria. There are types of antibiotics that only act against certain types of bacteria and those that act against varied bacteria. Such are medically referred to as broad-spectrum antibiotics. This makes self medication with antibiotics very risky. It is important to point out at this stage that taking inappropriate antibiotic to treat an infection easily damages the body.
- Once the ingested antibiotic does not find any bacteria to act upon, it acts against body cells, in effect damaging the same. It is therefore very necessary for one to be properly diagnosed before using antibiotics. In any case, antibiotics should only be taken on a doctors’ prescription. Although there are various categories of antibiotics including natural antibiotics, they all work in two ways. Once ingested, they interfere with the formation of bacteria cell wall, leading to death of the cells. Antibiotics also work by stopping further multiplication of harmful bacterial cells. The stoppage of bacterial cell multiplication and interfering with the formation of cell wall leads to death of harmful bacteria.
- Although the use of fluoroquinolones is certainly beneficial, they have a negative effect on the body. With this in mind, it is very appropriate for one to consider using natural antibiotics instead. Natural antibiotics boost the body’s immune system, enabling the body to naturally fight and kill any harmful bacteria that get in. There are varied foods that studies have established to contain antibiotic qualities or properties. Consuming such foods on a regular basis is like taking fluoroquinolones.
- The benefits that accrue from eating foods with antibiotic properties cannot be underestimated. It has been scientifically proven that eating garlic is very beneficial in reducing cholesterol, triglycerides and blood pressure. Garlic also acts as a decongestant in addition to reducing the risk of stroke, hypertension and development of tumors. Onions are not only anti-inflammatory but also increases blood circulation, alleviating angina and treating common cold and flu.
- Honey has been traditionally used as topical application for treatment of wounds due to its antibiotic properties. Honey is particularly effective in treating a wide range of infections caused by both bacteria and fungi. Other very useful antibiotic foods include Australian Tea Tree Oil, fruits and vegetables containing vitamin C, fermented foods and Goldenseal amongst others. In addition to these foods, other edible herbs are very good natural antibiotics. Such include cloves, cinnamon, cumin, chili peppers, cardamom, sage, coriander and caraway seeds amongst others.
- Just like with fluoroquinolones, eating the above foods and herbs in excess has a disadvantage. Eating natural antibiotics in excess can easily lead to such problems as diarrhea, feeling of being sick, increased risk of fungal infections in the mouth, digestive tract and in the vagina. There is also increased risk of being sensitive to sun, blood disorders and abnormal blood clotting. Elderly people who regularly eat antibiotics are likely to have inflamed bowels and allergic reactions. It can be particularly risky to take fluoroquinolones while eating natural antibiotic foods.