Bacterial infections are common types of infections that can cause serious health complications if left untreated. The National Institute of Allergies and Infectious Diseases states that bacterial infections are a major threat to your health. Examples of conditions that may be caused by bacterial infections include tuberculosis, ulcers and Guillain Barre syndrome. Herbs have been used for hundreds of years to treat bacterial infections. Check with your doctor before taking any substance, including herbs, to treat your bacterial infection.
Bacterial Infections
According to MedlinePlus, bacteria are single-celled microorganisms that are shaped like balls, rods or spirals. Some types of bacteria are beneficial for your health. In fact, notes MedlinePlus, less than 1 percent of bacteria make you sick. The bacteria that can make you sick, however, can quickly reproduce within your body, producing chemicals that damage your tissues. Some of the most common types of infectious bacteria include Helicobacter pylori, Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus.
Antibacterial Herbs
Certain herbs are known to possess antibacterial action, or the ability to eliminate bacteria or suppress their growth. According to William A. Mitchell, Jr., a naturopathic physician and author of "Plant Medicine in Practice," examples of herbs with antibacterial action include monkshood, valerian, skullcap, peony, Roman chamomile, Peruvian bark, eucalyptus, garlic, lomatium, boneset, elecampane, purple coneflower, Oregon grape root, burdock root, red clover, upland cranberry, plantain, yellow root, osha and boldo.
An Effective Herb
Lomatium may be one of the most effective herbs in treating bacterial infections. Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic doctor, master herbalist and author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," states that lomatium possess antibacterial, antiviral and anti-fungal properties. The University of Michigan Health System notes that lomatium is an herb that directly attacks microbes. The resin from the root of the lomatium plant is used in herbal remedies to help treat bacterial infections.
Disclaimer
If you suspect you have an infection, you should schedule a visit with your doctor as soon as possible. Your doctor can perform an examination to help determine what kind of infection you have and what treatments you may benefit from. Herbal remedies for bacterial infections are intended to help treat your condition, but they should not be used in lieu of other treatment recommendations given to you by your doctor. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant before taking herbs for your bacterial infection.
References
- National Institute of Allergies and Infectious Diseases: Bacterial Infections
- MedlinePlus: Bacterial Infections
- "Plant Medicine in Practice;" William A. Mitchell, Jr., N.D.; 2003
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
- University of Michigan Health System: Lomatium
