When if comes to fighting the common cold, treating a skin scrape or burn, or generally ridding your system of harmful bacteria, viruses or fungi that may compromise your health, don’t jump on the antibiotic bandwagon (unless things get serious). Instead, look to your refrigerator and pantry for some age-old home remedies that kill harmful bacteria and chronic infection and inspire the growth of good, healthy bacteria to keep your health in check.
Honey has been used for centuries for medicinal purposes. It is particularly honored for its complex antibacterial properties due to its high sugar concentration, hydrogen peroxide, low pH, methylglyoxal and peptide bee defensin-1. Purchase raw honey, which is unfiltered and thus retains its enzymatic integrity. Microbial resistance to honey has never been reported, which makes it a timeless remedy to infections and antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Cabbage has shown the ability to combat bacteria, notably H. Pylori bacteria, which cause stomach ulcers. Cabbage juice has traditionally been used as a cancer inhibitor and protective agent against radiation exposure, much owing to its antibacterial qualities. Because of this, cabbage is also effective in detoxifying the liver, bladder, and colon.
3. Fermented Foods
It may seem counter-intuitive to combat bacteria with just that – bacteria. However, no two bacteria are the same and a healthy immune system is hinged on a proper balance of good and bad bacteria. Fermented foods contain healthy bacteria that work to improve gut health, counteracting unhealthy bacteria, allowing you to retain a high level of immunity. Ferment your own veggies in the comfort of your own home.
4. Onions and Garlic
Onions and garlic have long been used as home remedies for their anti-bacterial properties. In one study, extracts of garlic and onions were added to a mouthwash solution and showed the ability to drastically reduce the amount of oral bacteria. This is likely due to their thiosulfinates, particularly allicin, which is a potent antimicrobial that fights off infection.
Ginger compounds have exhibited the ability to inhibit the growth and even kill oral pathogens. In one study that investigated the effects of ginger and antibiotics on the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus and S. pyreus infetitions, ginger extract emerged as being potentially superior. Ginger has also shown to have an antibacterial effect on respiratory and periodontal infections.
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