15 Antibiotics That You Can Purchase Without a Prescription

Antibiotics are most commonly used to deal with infections. They help kill bacteria and parasites that cause infections, but they are normally only available with a prescription. When you visit the doctor for an illness, they may or may not prescribe you an antibiotic. If you feel that you are in need of an antibiotic, then you should know that there are quite a few options available without a prescription.

Antibiotics work by killing bacteria in your body. This includes both good and bad bacteria. Many people are unaware that your body actually contains good bacteria that is necessary for proper digestion. For this reason, antibiotics are only used when they are absolutely necessary. If you choose to take an antibiotic without a prescription, you should also take a probiotic to promote the growth of good bacteria.

You should always listen to the advice of your doctor, but there are times when using a natural antibiotic may help you deal with a health issue on your own, without having to go through the trouble of visiting the doctor. To help you out, here are 15 natural antibiotics that you can use to stop infections, without needing a prescription.

 Coconut Oil

Coconut oil contains antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. Consuming this oil can help boost your immune system, preventing skin infections and fighting harmful bacteria or parasites in your digestive system. To consume coconut oil, try mixing it into a smoothie or stirring it into a hot drink. Also, when shopping for the oil, look for organic, virgin coconut oil, instead of the refined coconut oil.

 Oregon Grape

Oregon grape is an herb with antibiotic abilities. It includes an alkaloid called berberine, which is known to aid digestion and kill harmful microbes. It is most commonly used in a tea or as a tincture. If you purchase fresh Oregon grape root, cut off a few slices and brew your own Oregon grape tea. Steep the slices of root in hot water for ten minutes and then strain the tea before drinking.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar has many different uses and apparently acting as an antibiotic is one of them. Apple cider vinegar contains antibiotic and antiseptic compounds, which can help to naturally alkalize your digestive system. In addition to using apple cider vinegar as an antibiotic, consuming small doses of this vinegar can help lower your cholesterol and reduce your risk of developing certain types of cancer.

 Manuka Honey

While honey can work as an antibiotic, Manuka honey may offer the most benefits. Manuka honey comes from bees in New Zealand that pollinate the Manuka bush. Consuming this honey can help to repair tissue that has become infected. The primary active ingredient in Manuka honey, methylglyoxal, contains strong antibacterial properties. You can apply Manuka honey directly to a wound to prevent infection or consume it in small doses by adding to your food or mixing it into a tea.

Pau D’Arco

Pau D’Arco is a supplement that is created from an extract of the bark found on the Pau D’Arco tree. A number of studies have suggested that consuming this supplement can help to treat ulcers, yeast infections, and even intestinal worms. You will normally find Pau D’Arco sold in capsule form or as a dried bark tea. The tea is not always as effective, as the water dilutes the antibacterial properties of the substance. Opt for the capsule form and take as directed.

Tea Tree Essential Oil

Tea tree oil is another antibiotic that has many uses. It can be used to treat nausea, eliminate body odor, strengthen your hair, and apparently to kill bacteria. Applying tea tree oil topically can help prevent infection from cuts and scrapes, but should not be ingested.

 Oregano Oil

Oil extracted from oregano also has many uses, including antibacterial purposes. To kill stomach parasites, you should take an oregano oil pill. For skin infections, oregano oil can be applied topically. Make sure that you pay attention to dosage, if you plan on taking an oregano oil pill, as consuming too much of this oil can actually upset your stomach and lead to digestive issues.

 Fermented Foods

As mentioned, you should take probiotics, if you plan on ingesting an antibiotic. Probiotics are needed to increase the amount of healthy bacteria in your digestive system. By consuming certain fermented foods, you can create more good bacteria while killing the unhealthy bacteria. Try eating more pickles, probiotic yogurt, or cabbage. Most fermented foods are full of beneficial antioxidants that will have a much larger impact than taking a supplement.

Garlic

Garlic can be used to reduce your risk of heart disease and alleviate cold symptoms. While those are good reasons to use more garlic, it can also help kill bacteria and boost your immune system.

There are numerous ways to consume garlic. It can be added to just about any meal, it can be eaten raw, or it can be ground into a powder and used in teas. Avoid taking garlic on a regular basis. There is evidence that consuming garlic for a prolonged period can lead to stomach bleeding and other intestinal issues.

 Andrographis Paniculata

Andrographis paniculata is the name of a plant that is native to South Asia. The root and the leaf of the plant are used to relieve cold symptoms or skin irritation from bug bites, but it can also be used as an antibiotic. You may have difficulty finding a fresh source for this plant, but you might have better luck locating a supplement in capsule form. Always follow the recommended dosages.

 Echinacea

Echinacea is an herb known for its antioxidants. It can relieve pain and fight inflammation. This herb has been used by Native Americans for hundreds of years, mostly to treat injuries and prevent infections. You can find Echinacea in pill form, as an extract, or as an ointment.

 Olive Leaf Extract

The olive leaf contains a polyphenol called oleuropein. This polyphenol, along with the fatty acids found in the olive leaf, make it a beneficial herb for fighting inflammation and correcting the balance of good and bad bacteria in your digestive system. Olive leaf extract is often sold in pill form; though, you can also purchase it as a topical cream or a liquid extract.

Turmeric

Turmeric is related to ginger and contains many of the same properties. Most scientists would agree that turmeric is far more powerful that its close relative. Turmeric has been used to treat stomach ulcers, reduce the risk of heart disease, and cure indigestion. The active compounds found in turmeric also make it a useful antibiotic.

If you plan on consuming turmeric, look for fresh turmeric root. It can be ground into a powder and added to drinks or food.

Ginger

While ginger may not be as powerful as turmeric, you may not always have easy access to turmeric. Ginger is readily available at any grocery store and can be used as an antibiotic. As with turmeric, you should purchase fresh ginger and cut off sections as needed. Add it to just about any meal or drink.

Cabbage

Cabbage is naturally antibacterial and includes a large dose of vitamin C. This combination makes it a perfect antibiotic. As an added benefit, consuming cabbage can help to improve your digestive system and boost your metabolism.

Take Antibiotics with Caution

If you decide to use a natural antibiotic, always proceed with caution. Taking an antibiotic when you do not really need to can eliminate healthy gut bacteria, which takes time to replace. For those that are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should always talk to your doctor before trying any natural remedies.

When using the natural antibiotics described, always use them in moderation. They are not intended for daily consumption, at least not at the levels that you need to use them as antibiotics. Only use the antibiotic for one to two weeks and make sure that you also take a probiotic – to begin rebuilding healthy bacteria in your digestive system.