5 natural antibiotics that can replace over-the-counter drugs

Antibiotics are the most common drugs used to kill or inhibit bacterial growth. The popular drug comes to your rescue when your immune system does not work efficiently to destroy disease-causing bacteria.

Due to lack of information, most people use antibiotics incorrectly. It is an antibacterial drug but is often taken when someone is suffering from viral conditions like cough and cold.

Overusing antibiotics not only leads to different kinds of side-effects but it might also make the bacteria resistant to the drug. Not everyone knows that most antibiotics are processed from natural sources.

Here are 5 natural antibiotics you can use instead of your over-the-counter drugs:

1. Garlic
Anti-bacterial properties of garlic make it an effective herb for fighting bacterial infection. Studies suggest that Allicin, the compound found in garlic is effective in killing several harmful bacteria, including Salmonella and Escherichia coli. It is absolutely safe to ingest garlic, but overuse can cause internal bleeding. So, do not have more than two cloves of garlic in a day. You can soak them in olive oil and then have it. If you are on a blood-thinning medicine, then consult your doctor before consuming garlic.

2. Honey
The sweet golden liquid is one of the oldest known antibiotics. It was even used in Egyptian time as a natural antibiotic and skin protectant. Honey can help in treating chronic wounds, burns, ulcers, bedsores, and skin grafts. A 2011 study revealed that honey can inhibit approximately 60 kinds of bacteria. Honey contains hydrogen peroxide, which has antibacterial properties.

3. Ginger
Ginger has been widely recognised for its anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. The common kitchen herb contains gingerol, terpenoids, shogaol, zerumbone and zingerone along with flavonoids that have some excellent antimicrobial properties. Numerous studies suggest that ginger can fight numerous strains of bacteria.

4. Turmeric
Turmeric contains curcumin, which is known for its powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This yellow spice commonly used in cooking can protect you from damaged caused by free radicals. It can even reduce the growth of many disease-causing bacteria. Turmeric can reduce fungal growth and suppress the growth of tumour in cells.

5. Thyme essential oil
Thyme essential oil is used for treating respiratory problems, inflammation, and gastric issues. Other than this, thyme oil also has some antibacterial properties. But you can only use thyme oil externally. Ingesting it like other essential oil is not recommended. Before applying it on the skin, dilute it in a carrier oil. Using it directly on the skin can cause inflammation and irritation.