Herbal Cures for MRSA

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is a persistent, potentially life-threatening form of infectious bacteria. MRSA resists treatment from even the strongest forms of antibiotics. Herbal medicine can help to treat MRSA, especially when they are used alongside prescribed treatment protocols. In fact, some herbal medicines have been found to be more effective than traditional antibiotics for treating MRSA. However, because MRSA can become lethal if it is left unchecked, patients should still seek evaluation from a competent professional before attempting any form of self-treatment. Complementary treatment protocols can be highly effective but they still require the supervision of a qualified practitioner, especially when a serious infection is present.

Tea Tree Oil

• Tea tree oil is a famous for its potent antibacterial properties, and it is often used as the first line of defense against MRSA and other forms of staph infection. The Journal of Hospital Infection reported that the oil is powerfully effective in destroying MRSA, with its efficacy rivaling even the world's strongest antibiotics. However, physicians are concerned that MRSA may develop resistance to tea tree oil due to the extract's overuse in cosmetics. High concentrations of tea tree oil appear to prevent disease resistance, but low concentrations--such as those found in shampoos and hand soaps--contribute to the problem. Patients with MRSA can most effectively treat the infection by applying a 5 percent or more concentration of tea tree oil, at least twice per day, to the infection site. Because tea tree oil is extremely caustic, it is appropriate for external use only.

Oil of Oregano

• Oregano, another potently antibacterial herb, is a popular choice for people suffering from MRSA. Whether applied topically or taken internally, oregano has the ability to destroy pathogenic bacteria, viruses and fungi. One study at the Georgetown University Medical Center, reported by Harry G. Preuss, MD, found that oil of oregano is a more reliable treatment for MRSA than vancomycin, the most popular antibiotic for people suffering from the infection. Oil of oregano is associated with very few side effects, but it has an extremely bitter flavor that most patients find unpleasant. In large, frequent doses, it may inhibit the absorption of iron, but it has no known interactions with antibiotics or any other prescribed medications.

Garlic

• Garlic has been recognized as a natural antibiotic since Louis Pasteur's era, but there is no evidence that bacteria are capable of developing resistance to the plant. For this reason, it a common choice for people who want to treat MRSA without contributing to the growing issue of antibiotic resistance. While garlic is not as powerful as most conventional antibiotics, it can be an effective complement to other forms of MRSA treatment. Garlic can be applied directly to the site of an MRSA infection or it can be taken internally. Unfortunately, both methods can lead to halitosis or unpleasant body odor.

Echinacea

• The flowering plants of the genus echinacea are believed to stimulate the immune system and destroy infectious bacteria. Echinacea purpurea has been used for centuries as a remedy for both viral and bacterial infection, and people suffering from MRSA often take echinacea supplements for immune support. A meta-analysis published in 2004 concluded that echinacea's disease-fighting properties are legitimate, but its exact pharmacology is not fully understood. Echinacea is most effective against MRSA when it is taken internally and used alongside other treatments.

Andrographis

• Traditionally used in ayurvedic medicine, andrographis paniculata is highly effective in boosting immune response. Andrographis has both anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties, so it is especially useful for treating patients who have secondary bacterial infections caused by viruses. For example, andrographis might be used by an MRSA patient who is HIV-positive or developed the infection after a cold. Additionally, andrographis is known to have strong anti-inflammatory effects and it may help to relieve pain, congestion and inflammation associated with MRSA infections. Andrographis work in synergy with other supplements, including echinacea and oil of oregano.