Natural Antibiotics: Here's How They Can Boost Immunity And Facilitate Speedy Recovery

Antibiotics are one of world's most prescribed medicines for bacterial infections. Antibiotics are useful in cases when your own immune system does not work efficiently to kill harmful bacteria that causes diseases, antibiotics turn out to be helpful. However, overuse of antibiotics has resulted in growing incidence of antibiotic resistance-a condition in which bacteria change in a way that it reduces effectiveness of drugs or medicines that are designed to cure or prevent infection. In case of antibiotic resistance, the bacteria continue to multiple and causes more harm in the body.

This is the reason why you have to be mindful about consuming antibiotics and avoid them unless they are prescribed to you by a doctor. They can increase risk of antibiotic resistance and may even worsen the condition you are suffering from. Taking care of yourself with some natural home remedies or homemade antibiotics can definitely help you deal with common cold, fever, sinus infections, pneumonia and other infections that are usually treated with antibiotics.

Also read: World's Most Prescribed Medicine: Antibiotics

Natural antibiotics that can help you fight infections

1. Honey

Honey has healing properties and that is why it has been used a home remedy or natural antibiotic for quicker healing of wounds and prevention of infections. You can include honey in your diet by using it as the healthier alternative to sugar. You can add it to your tea or you can gulp a tsp of honey.

2. Garlic

Anti-bacterial properties of garlic make it an effective herb for fighting infections. Allicin is the active compound in garlic that has the capability of fighting harmful bacteria. You can directly ingest garlic cloves soaked in olive oil. Consuming two garlic cloves in a day can be helpful.

Also read: Study: Overuse Of Antibiotics Is High In Common Urology Procedures

3. Ginger

Ginger has medicinal and anti-inflammatory properties that qualify it as a homemade antibiotic. Gingerol in ginger can be credited to its medicinal properties. Ginger can be used to treat nausea and morning sickness. It can also help in reducing muscle pain and soreness. Add ginger as an ingredient in your foods. You can also have ginger and honey infused tea.

4. Thyme essential oil

Studies have found that thyme essential oil can be helpful against antibiotic resistant bacteria. You can use thyme essential oil as a diffuser at home. It may help in increasing effectiveness of antibiotics.

Also read: Antibiotics: Uses, Types And Common Side Effects You Must Be Aware Of

5. Turmeric

Turmeric has amazing medicinal properties. There is nothing that this golden spice can't do for you. Curcumin in turmeric is the reason why the spice can be termed as a natural antibiotic. Curcumin contains powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can offer protection from damage caused by free radicals in the body. Turmeric can not only help in facilitating speedy recovery, it can also help in improving brain function and reducing arthritis pain and joint pain. Have haldi doodh (turmeric latte) regularly and add raw turmeric in your foods. It will improve your immunity and reduce your risk of falling sick.

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.