Natures answer to germs, bacteria, and viruses
Within the last several decades the over-use of antibiotics has reached an all-time high and the increase of drug-resistant bacteria and superbugs that have evolved faster than the guys in the lab coats can devise a new plan to fight them.
We have this fear instilled in us over the exposure to common germs; we have antiseptic gels and hand wipes at the ready at all times. The slightest sniffle sends us into a tail spin and we are at urgent care receiving a z-pack script “just in case”. What many doctors aren’t realizing is that the antibiotics are stripping the good bacteria along with the bad leaving your body no defense system against common and immune system strengthening bugs.
At the onset of a cold, for my littles and myself we swear by the "natures army". That is NOT to say that if a proper infection walked in the door we wouldn’t get on a round of antibiotics (we’ll cover post-antibiotic repair in another article soon).
Before we had antibiotics, we had natures very own warriors in the form of antimicrobials. Thankfully they are still available today and you can get them at the local health food or grocery store!
1. MANUKA HONEY. Only guaranteed effective if sourced from New Zealand. These special little bees pollinate the native Manuka bush to produce this potent wound healing, gut repairing, infection fighting substance. Scientific studies have analyzed the uses and effectiveness continuously and reported back the same conclusive findings: nature has nailed it.
Most raw unfiltered honey is a great source of things such as: Amino acids, B vitamins, calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, sodium and zinc. Manuka contains up to 4 x the amount of the local favorite. Each jar has a rating system defined by its UMF = Unique Manuka Factor. This grading factor appraises the natural markers and assures purity and quality. The higher the grade: the stronger and more effective the spoonful.
*disclaimer: as with all raw unfiltered substances, babies under 12 months need a doctors approval.
Top Uses:
1. At the onset of a cold or sore throat
2. Atop a burn or minor cut to expedite healing time
3. As part of a gut healing regime to reduce inflammation, IBS and IBD
4. Helps allergies
5. Prevents tooth decay and gingivitis
6. Beauty treatment: yes put it in your homemade face wash, or face mask
7. Smear on eczema
2. OIL OF OREGANO. This plant derived essential oil is a heavy hitter in the arena when it comes to treating and preventing a variety of infections. The historical use of this herb spans back over 2,500 years in homeopathic culture medicine from around the world. Its multi-faceted approach to your needs make this my number 2 favorite. The active ingredients take on multiple types of pathogens including bacteria, yeast and fungi.
For children that are ok with swallowing small capsules there are some great brands that offer small easy to swallow gel tablets. You will also find it in liquid form which can be slightly spicy but a couple drops in a glass of orange juice should be palatable. As an adult, if I am fighting a cold I will take 2 tablets up to 3 times a day.
Top Uses:
· Bacterial infections
· Fungal infections
· Parasites
· Viruses
· Indigestion
· Candida
· Allergies
· Immune system strengthener
3. COLLODIAL SILVER. Although it has been used for CENTURIES, it’s one of the least recognized or popular understood antimicrobials. In ancient times silver was a popular remedy to stop the spread of diseases. It has a direct effect on cellular respiration and benefits the body in a number of super beneficial ways.
It comes in liquid form and can be put on your skin topically, in your ear canals, up your nose, and swallowed. You ready for this? Its ability to control antibiotic-resistant superbugs is UNREAL. It's been documented and responsible for destroying over 650 different disease-causing pathogens.
Top Uses:
· Antibacterial
· Wound Care / Skin Health
· Pink Eye / Ear Infections
· Antiviral
· Anti-inflammatory
· Sinusitis
· Cold / Flu
· Pneumonia
4. Garlic. In its raw form either crushed or chewed has similar properties to penicillin and is recognized as a superfood due to its membership in the onion family providing anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, anti-parasitic, anti-fungal, antibiotic, and antioxidant effects. Clearly, this is a tough sell for the littles so I suggest either capsule form or cold pressed in a juice concoction that is palatable.
Top Uses:
· Colds
· Chest Congestion
· Upper Respiratory Tract Infections
· Gut bacteria stabilizer
· Yeast infections