The immune system is the first line of defense against illness-causing pathogens. Scientific evidence suggests that these natural foods could help boost your infection-fighting prowess.
1. Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has been the rage in the health industry for years – and for good reason. Research shows that it “has multiple antimicrobial potential with clinical therapeutic implications.”
2. Garlic: Studies show that garlic is effective against Escherichia coli (E. coli), Salmonella, and other forms of bacteria.
3. Ginger: Ginger is widely known as a natural antibiotic – capable of combating different strains of bacteria.
4. Horseradish Root: Bronchitis, kidney stones, and urinary tract infections – an online article notes that these are some of the illnesses that can be alleviated, thanks to the antibiotic properties of horseradish.
5. Onion: Often an overlooked dietary staple, onions have bene found to assist the immune system by reducing inflammation and helping with upper respiratory tract infections.
6. Habanero Peppers: Habanero peppers are as hot as they are potent against pathogenic bacteria. One study showed that habanero is effective against Yersinia enterocolitica and Salmonella enterica subsp. Typhimurium.
7. Oregano Oil: When made into an essential oil, studies show that oregano is one of the most powerful antibiotics nature has to offer. The oil is known to be effective against clinical strains such as Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli (E. coli). A typical home remedy for tummy bugs that some use (this is not medical advice) is a single drop of oregano oil in a capsule, taken orally.
8. Turmeric: Although turmeric is an effective antimicrobial agent on its own, research has indicated that it might also be used to supplement conventional antibiotic therapy.
9. Echinacea Herb: Echinacea is in common use to this day as a herbal remedy for colds and flu. Scientific research shows that extracts from Echinacea purpurea have antibacterial properties active against many types of bacteria.
10. Raw Honey: Ever wondered why honey was historically used for dressing wounds? It turns out that topical application inhibits certain bacteria and helps with the healing process.
11. Colloidal Silver: Werewolves aside, colloidal silver is widely regarded as a broad-spectrum antibiotic agent that is effective against bacteria and some types of fungi. Silver is also commonly used as an antibacterial in wound dressings – and olden-days real silver cutlery is thought to have provided assistance against food-borne bacteria.
