As integrative and functional medicine gain popularity, and as we learn more about the downside of traditional antibiotics—like overprescription and the rise of antibiotic resistance—patients are asking more and more about natural antibiotic therapy, so let’s dive in. It’s important to know that these natural antibiotics have limitations and aren’t always the right solution. As with any infection, it’s highly important to talk to your physician and never self-diagnose and treat yourself. Sometimes, you can actually make your symptoms worse or end up in the emergency room, causing more harm than good. How to use oregano oil: As oregano oil can have a really pungent flavor, I usually recommend oil capsules over the tincture or drops since its easily tolerated by many patients. How to use garlic: Unfortunately, to achieve results, you have to eat a lot of garlic, and you have to eat it raw (cooking it deactivates many of the antimicrobial properties), which is too pungent for a lot of people. But if they can handle it, my patients take it when they have cold symptoms and notice a dramatic difference. You can also find allicin in high-potency, concentrated garlic capsules, which will also do the trick! How to use uva-ursi: First, always talk to your doctor before you start taking this on your own because urinary tract infections can turn bad very quickly! You can find uva-ursi as crushed leaves, as a powder, and even in capsules (these seems to be the easiest for patients to take) that you can start at the first sign of urinary discomfort. How to use berberine: I usually recommend berberine in simple capsule form for my patients to bring with them on trips or for patients who are doing a full gut healing protocol, which includes eliminating harmful bacteria, fungi, and parasites, while reenoculating the gut with beneficial probiotic bacteria. How to use colloidal silver: Colloidal silver is taken in liquid form via a dropper bottle and can be applied topically, orally, or even into the eye to treat pink eye! Please be sure to check the dose and duration with your provider since it’s the dosage will vary depending on your specific ailment. You will also need to flush the silver out with lots of water, so remember to keep it on hand! How to use Manuka honey: You can add Manuka honey to your tea or look for products like cough drops or syrups made with it. Manuka honey is great topically as well, especially on wounds and acne, as it works to decrease inflammation and repair tissue. For a Manuka honey face mask, just spread the honey on your face and leave it for 10 minutes, then wash it off with warm water. One last thing, make sure you don’t take even these natural antibiotics for a long time since they, too, just like antibiotics, can negatively affect your gut microflora. Want to learn more about Manuka honey? Here’s why it might be the best thing to ever happen to your skin.
