When many people think of antimicrobial compounds, images of pharmaceutical drugs come to mind, such as antibiotic medications use to treat bacterial infections in the body. But antimicrobials also occur naturally in our environment and can be used to your advantage for better health.
Here is an overview of what natural antimicrobials are and the types of foods and homeopathic remedies that they exist in.
Uses for Natural Antimicrobials
One of main reasons why scientists have studied natural antimicrobials recently is for their potential to improve food safety and quality. They can be used to prevent food from spoiling without using preservatives or synthetic materials. Various plants have natural antimicrobial properties that can aid food preservation without negatively affecting taste or exposing you to potentially toxic chemicals. That’s because these natural plant compounds prevent microorganisms from growing on the surface of foods so that you can feel more confident about your safety while eating.
Aside from food preservation, natural antimicrobials can also help equip your body with the protection it needs to prevent illnesses caused by germs. Natural antimicrobial products that are derived from plant sources have proven to be effective for stimulating the body’s immune system without pharmaceutical drugs that come with side effects and risks of reduced potency due to the mutation of bacteria strains.
Examples of Natural Antimicrobials
Herbs are one of the best sources of natural antimicrobials, and there are various herbs that contain these compounds. Herbs and spices that contain them include basil, oregano, thyme, cloves, cardamom, rosemary, and sage.
Grapefruit seed extract is an example of a natural antimicrobial ingredient that is often used to treat throat and nose irritations. It is also used as a natural stabilizer in foods and contained in Seagate’s 100% natural Olive Leaf Surface Cleaner. Seagate’s Olive Leaf Extract is a leading alternative antimicrobial therapy that helps you avoid the side effects of antibiotic medications.
Grape seed extract has been studied for its natural antimicrobial protection against various pathogens, especially for microorganisms that have become resistant to conventional treatments. Food sources of natural antimicrobials include grapes, fennel, olive leaves, mushrooms, cabbage, onion, garlic, peppers, guava, and citrus fruits.
How to Get More Natural Antimicrobials
Making the switch from traditional over-the-counter medications and pharmaceuticals to natural homeopathic remedies is an excellent way to get more natural antimicrobials in your life. At Seagate, we offer many all-natural remedies that address the various symptoms that you commonly feel during cold and flu season, as well as all throughout the year.
Here are some examples that you and your family may benefit from:
You can also eat more of the foods mentioned above to get an extra dose of antimicrobial protection during meals. Through both diet and trying homeopathic remedies for mild illnesses, these are great ways to live a more natural lifestyle and give your body the best fighting chance against illness this winter.