Inhabiting a world filled with deadly environmental pollutants and harmful microorganisms, pose various health hazards and infections of all kind. To counter these diseases, antibiotics are prescribed, which does more harm than good, as they not only destroy the bad bacteria, but also the good ones that support the immune system.

However, little do we realise that certain foods, used in our daily lives, available from our own kitchen, contain natural antibiotic properties. These when added to our diet regularly, keep infections at bay.

Powerful Natural Antibiotics We Use Every Day

Garlic

The presence of allicin, a compound in garlic, is said to have antifungal and anti bacterial effects. They help reduce the numbers of Escherichia and staphylococcus albus. These boost immunity by acting as a natural antibiotic.

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Due to its high antimicrobial property, garlic was used widely to treat diseases like typhus and dysentery during the First World War. During the 2nd world war, it was used to protect against sepsis (Blood Poisoning). Regular intake of garlic fight against common cold apart from reduced risk of certain types of cancer, tumour, stroke and hypertension.

Onions

A close relative of garlic, onions are one of the best and easily available natural antibiotics. They contain high doses of sulphur, with a whole lot of medicinal properties.

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They help fight against the respiratory and the digestive tract diseases, and prevent inflammation of excretory system. Due to its antibacterial properties, they act as a disinfectant against animal and insect bites.

Honey

A great remedy for infected burns and wounds, honey promotes rapid healing and has been very effective, where antibiotics have failed .This has been mainly due to its antimicrobial action against a wide range of bacteria and fungi.

When it is exposed to wounds, it releases hydrogen peroxide, and prohibits the growth of certain bacteria. Apart from its ability to treat eye and skin infections, it also helps destroy the bacteria that cause stomach ulcers.

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It is a great remedy for respiratory problems and allergic reaction. Nevertheless, people with weak immune system have a possibility of suffering from adverse reactions, therefore it would be wise to consult a physician before use.

Turmeric

A widely researched natural antibiotic, Turmeric prevents the growth of certain types of parasites, bacteria, and fungi. Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, it acts as an effective antiseptic and an antibiotic.

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It helps prevent fungal and bacterial infections and is a good cure for treating boils. The powerful substance of turmeric is good for the digestive tract, heart, liver and in preventing formation of tumours.

Probiotics

Probiotics (Fermented foods) have an indirect antibiotic effect due to the presence of lactobacillus acidophilus bifido acidophilus bacteria. Bifido bacteria are the primary organisms that are effective against many disease-causing bacteria.

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Due to their ability to introduce friendly bacteria into the body, they are considered natural antibiotics. Highly recommended by Doctors to be taken simultaneously along with antibiotic treatment, probiotics replace the good bacteria destroyed in the digestive system that fight against invasive bacteria.

Lime and Lemons

A natural antibiotic they are effective against cholera, which is an intestinal bacteria disease. They also contain flavonoids with antibiotic effects. The high Vitamin C content help boost the immune system to fight against disease-causing bacteria, by replacing the good bacteria in the digestive tract that fight against invading microorganisms.

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Using natural antibiotics are a safe alternative. They are less toxic and have the ability to boost the body’s immune system against bacterial and fungal infections.