Natural Antibiotic Information

The human body produces its own natural antibiotics called antimicrobial peptides. The immune system uses them to help protect our skin, mucous membranes and other surfaces from dangerous microbes. Some infections are still able to invade our bodies. It is becoming more commonplace to use natural antibiotics for treatment.

Significance

• Natural antibiotics have grown in popularity because of an increase in antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) says the cause of the resistant bacteria is widespread and sometimes indiscriminate use of antibiotics.

History

• The use of natural antibiotics dates back to the ancient Egyptians who used molds applied directly to the skin to treat infections.

Uses

• Naturally occurring alternative antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections, herpes, allergies, skin disorders and upper respiratory infections.

Types

• Garlic, grapefruit seed extract, tea tree oil, colloidal silver, olive leaf extract and honey are examples of natural antibiotics.

Benefits

• Natural alternatives are less toxic and safer, providing protection from antibiotic side effects. They boost the body's ability to produce antibodies for which bacteria, viruses and fungi can't develop immunity.