Prescription antibiotics are a standard type of medication given for a variety of ailments, but they come with real drawbacks. Conversely, natural supplements with qualities similar to antibiotics could work just as well. Here is a look at four supplements that fit this description.
Questioning The Use of Antibiotics
In the field of medicine, antibiotics are a well-established defensive treatment for bacterial infections. However, they can have a disruptive effect on the body’s microbiome, leading to a range of potential side effects. The trouble with these medications is that they cannot tell the difference between positive and negative bacteria, so they target both types. Some people suffer lasting consequences from taking antibiotics.
These include gastrointestinal symptoms could include nausea, vomiting, and antibiotic-associated diarrhea. In women, vaginal yeast infections could occur. All of these are the result of the disruptive effect that antibiotics have on healthy bacteria in the body. Antibiotic resistancecan also occur, usually when antibiotics are misused. Antibiotic resistance is when a strain of bacteria becomes antibiotic-resistant. This can lead to severe bacterial infectionsthat are difficult to treat.
Supplements to Sub for Antibiotics
For these reasons, natural alternative remedies are preferred by some. A few natural dietary supplements have properties that can work similarly to an antibiotic, in order to overcome and rid the body of bad bacteria. Here are four of the most-recommended natural supplements which could serve this purpose:
Echinacea is an herb-flowering plant, and its extract is known to have antibacterial properties. It has long been used to treat various infections, such as urinary tract infections. Science suggests that it could also be useful against respiratory bacteria. Taking an oral echinacea supplement during the onset of an infection, and for up to 10 days, is the recommended way to get the best out of this natural supplement.
Goldenseal is another herb with antibacterial properties. Microbial infections that can be treated by taking goldenseal include eye infections and respiratory tract infections. Research shows that goldenseal contains a high amount of the alkaloid called berberine, as well as other antibacterial compounds that work together. These are what make goldenseal effective. A supplement containing both goldenseal and echinacea is an excellent plant-based alternative to prescription antibiotics.
Turmeric has a long history of use as a natural remedy. The bioactive ingredient in turmeric, curcumin, has been shown to have potent anti-inflammatory properties, as well as potentially powerful antimicrobial properties. Lab studies have shown that curcumin can be effective against a wide range of bacteria, in addition to other benefits it provides to the body.
Garlic oil: Garlic is known for its antibacterial properties, and has long been used to treat a variety of infections. Research shows garlic to be effective against infections including Staphylococcus and Salmonella, among others. Garlic oil is one of the easiest ways to consume concentrated garlic.
If you want a natural alternative route to prescription antibiotics, consider these four plant-based supplements for their antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. It’s recommended that you always talk to your healthcare provider before taking any supplement for the first time.