(Natural News) Many people use over-the-counter (OTC) antibiotics to treat bacterial infections, but these medications often cause adverse effects. Fortunately, Nature provides powerful remedies that are just as effective as modern medicines but don’t come with unwanted side effects. Here are 10 natural antibiotics you can find in your own kitchen or grow in your home garden. (h/t to BioPrepper.com)

Oregano oil

Packed with natural antioxidants, this healing oil is considered one of the most effective natural antibiotics on the planet. You can add a few drops of oregano oil to a pot of boiling water and inhale the steam once a day to eliminate sinus and upper respiratory infections. If you are suffering from foot or nail infections, add a few teaspoons of oregano oil to a tub of warm water and soak your foot in it for several minutes. When used every day, this foot soak will help you get rid of infections in no time.

Olive leaf extract

Olive leaf extract contains a compound called oleuropein that has antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. This makes olive leaf extract especially useful in boosting your immune defenses against antibiotic-resistant infections. (Related: Mediterranean diets have medicinal benefits: Olive leaf extract can reduce your risk of several diseases.)

Ginger

Ginger‘s natural antibacterial properties allow it to combat different types of bacteria, such as salmonella and other food-borne pathogens. This is why it is recommended to consume fresh ginger alongside sushi or raw seafood. Ginger tea also helps soothe an upset stomach and relieve nausea. When in doubt, it wouldn’t hurt to add some pickled ginger to any dish that might make you feel a little queasy.

Honey

Due to its high hydrogen peroxide content, honey is known to be a powerful antimicrobial agent. Raw honey has been used as a natural antiseptic and antibiotic for thousands of years. In fact, this sweet substance is a common folk remedy for respiratory infections. Honey can also be applied topically to help protect wounds from infection.

Garlic

Not only is garlic loaded with vitamins and minerals, but it also contains a potent compound called allicin. Allicin has natural antimicrobial properties that work against different types of bacteria, even antibiotic-resistant strains. To experience the full benefits of allicin, add raw garlic to your meals or apply a topical solution made of raw garlic and water directly to your wound.

Echinacea

Echinacea possesses bacteria-fighting properties that are similar to those of garlic. When taken in liquid or capsule form, echinacea extract can help boost your immune system. Echinacea is also a natural remedy for gum disease, malaria, diphtheria, tonsillitis, syphilis, typhoid and infections of the bloodstream, urinary tract and vagina.

Apple cider vinegar

Raw apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a chemical-free astringent with powerful antiseptic and antimicrobial properties. You can drink regular doses of ACV to help cleanse your digestive system or apply ACV topically to disinfect and sterilize superficial cuts and wounds.

Turmeric

A staple in Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine, turmeric has been used for generations as a highly effective treatment for bacterial infections. Its active ingredient, curcumin, is especially useful for boosting the immune system. If the taste of turmeric proves too strong, you can take it with honey to experience the combined benefits of both.

Cayenne pepper

If you’ve ever felt your blood rush from the heat of cayenne pepper, then you’d know how effective it is at stimulating blood circulation. Cayenne pepper owes its beneficial properties to two pungent compounds, capsaicin and dihydrocapsaicin, which, according to studies, can stop the growth of bacteria and fungi. These chemicals can also relieve the symptoms of viral infections like the flu through their actions inside the body.

If you can’t handle the taste of cayenne pepper, just mix it with a dollop of honey to balance out the fiery flavor.

Extra virgin coconut oil

With its natural antimicrobial properties, extra virgin coconut oil can significantly boost your immune system’s ability to fight microbial infections. It can even help improve brain function and stabilize your blood sugar levels. Incorporate this versatile oil into your diet to support your overall health and well-being.

They may seem like ordinary culinary ingredients, but these natural antibiotics can really come in handy when you’re dealing with bacterial or fungal infections. For more natural remedies you can find at home, visit Remedies.news.

Sources include:

BioPrepper.com

MedicalNewsToday.com