Herbal Remedies for MRSA

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, which is abbreviated MRSA, is a strain of the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus resistant to common antibiotics. MRSA infections range from mild localized skin infections to more serious, life-threatening conditions of the heart, lungs, blood or bone, especially in immunocompromised people. Treatment usually involves antibiotic therapy. Severe cases may require hospitalization and surgery. Certain herbs have shown significant antibacterial activity against MRSA and may help treat and manage the infection.

Thyme

BBC News reported in March 2010 that a combination of essential oils derived from thyme plant could destroy MRSA cultures in the laboratory within two hours. Thyme is generally safe to use as no major side effects have been reported. However, the efficacy of thyme has not been proven clinically, and hence, it should not be used without the guidance of a trained health care professional.

Himalayan Oregano

An article published by the website Medical News Today in November 2008 states that essential oils extracted from the Himalayan oregano plants have significant antibacterial activity against MRSA in the laboratory and may be used to develop disinfectants and soaps to prevent the super bug infections. Oregano extracts are safe, although mild allergic reactions can sometimes occur. It is best to talk to a doctor before using oregano extracts to prevent or treat MRSA infections.

Garlic

Aqueous extracts of allicin, the main antibacterial component of garlic, can inhibit the growth of MRSA in the laboratory, says R. Cutler, author of a study published in a 2004 edition of the "British Journal of Biomedical Science." Consumption of more than six or seven cloves of raw garlic can, however, lead to gastric disturbances including gas and bloating. Garlic may also interfere with certain anticoagulant drugs and hence should be used only under the supervision of a physician.

Green Tea

The results of another study published in the December 2008 edition of the journal "Current Microbiology" have revealed that tea polyphenols can inhibit the growth of MRSA in the laboratory. Drinking two to thee cups of green tea per day is generally safe and may provide the necessary benefits but concentrated green tea extracts can lead to liver damage. Always talk to a doctor before using green tea for MRSA.

Scutellaria barbata

Scutellaria barbata, or Baikal skullcap, is one of the oldest herbs used in Chinese medicine. According to an article published in the October 2000 edition of the "Journal of Ethnopharmacology," apigenin and luteolin extracted from Scutellaria plant can inhibit the growth of MRSA in the laboratory. However, there is no scientific data to prove the efficacy of this herb in real cases. Talk to a doctor to determine the dosage that is right for you.