Updated 6/24/2020
Many modern medications and drugs today are actually derived from herbs! I mean, think about it! Where did they get the raw materials from in the first place before they manipulate it all? This article is a great read if you’re interested in how modern medicine is made. So why not just go to the source? That’s what our ancestors did, right? Below are a few spices and herbs I wanted to highlight that you may find helpful to rid any bacteria internally and externally.
CINNAMON
Can cinnamon really kill E coli? Researchers at Kansas State University have also discovered that cinnamon kills Escherichia coli! In this study, scientists examined apple juice that was tainted with approximately one million E. coli. About a teaspoon of cinnamon was added to the apple juice and the concoction was left to stand for three days. When researchers checked the juice samples after the 3 days, they discovered that 99.5 percent of the bacteria had been destroyed in the juice! I love adding cinnamon daily to my smoothies (After blended, it’s just a personal weird twerk about me but you can totally blend it in haha) and it’s great in warm winter drinks, coffee, and of course baked goods!
Research states cinnamon oil:
• Combats hard-to-treat bacterial organisms. This study, found that compounds in cinnamon oil had an antimicrobial effect against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a potentially life-threatening, drug-resistant bacteria that affects plants, people, and other animals and could possibly be useful for such treatment and suggestions for this is to be further examined.
• Supports oral health. The antibacterial and antifungal properties found in cinnamon oil have shown to be effective against Streptococcus mutans (agents which cause oral infections and cavities in teeth).
• Disinfects. Antibacterial properties found in the oil of cinnamon bark make it a safe, effective, and non-chemical additive alternative that can be used to preserve products and increase their shelf life. This study found that cinnamon oil could even be effectively used as a preservative in cosmetics, toiletries, and hospital-setting disinfectants!
THIS is the cinnamon oil I have and use for cleaning
RAW PUMPKIN SEEDS
Raw pumpkin seeds contain a natural fat that is toxic to parasite eggs! WHAT?! Cucurbitacin in pumpkin seeds has been shown anti-parasitic activity, since it has the ability to paralyze worms so they drop off the intestinal walls. Kinda gross but cool at the same time, right?
In this study Chinese scientists used pumpkin seeds to treat acute schistosomiasis and tapeworm infestations using formulas containing pumpkin seeds. But don’t think a few seed will do the job, apparently you need half a cup at a time to really work….but it works nonetheless.
OREGANO
Got candida? Take some oregano! This study shows oregano to be an anti-fungal and strong defense against Candida albicans!
A substance called Carvacrol is found in many herbs, however it has its highest concentration in oregano.
In this study, carvacrol was shown to be a potent antibacterial against numerous strains of bacteria. It is thought to work by destroying the cell membranes of bacteria and even stop them at their tracks from multiplying!
The cool thing about the carvacrol in oregano in particular is that it’s been shown to destroy harmful bacteria while keeping helpful probiotic bacteria intact.
Whenever I am sick with a cold, oregano oil is something I always grab and make use of. However, the extract isn’t as effective as the FRESH herb (if you can find it in the herb section in your grocer). In fact, a USDA study found that it has the highest antioxidant activity of most fresh herbs!
It can even reduce parasite growth!
THYME
Did you know for most, thyme oil is the active ingredient in your “green” household cleaners? That’s because it really is an antibacterial and antimicrobial herb! No only does thyme oil have the ability to kill infections inside the body, but topically on the skin like acne due to its components like caryophyllene and camphene (please seek a skincare professional before applying any essential oil to your skin)
I always brew a cup of fresh thyme tea whenever I feel under the weather OR if I just want to boost my immunity.
Thyme Tea Recipe”
1/4 package of fresh thyme herbs
5 cups water
Wash leaves and boil in water until water turns a dark color and a “foam” surfaces the top. Don’t worry, the foam is totally normal and safe to consume, and I personally enjoy the taste!
I also use thyme essential oil to clean and disinfect my home.
THIS is the thyme oil I have and use for cleaning.
BASIL
Potent Antibacterial
Basil oil has shown impressive antimicrobial activity against a wide range of food-borne bacteria, yeasts and mold. Researchers have shown that basil oil is effective against a common foodborne pathogen known as E. coli.
Another study has shown that Ocimum basilicum oils can decrease bacteria due to spoilage and food-borne pathogens when it’s included in the water used to wash fresh organic produce.
You can use basil oil in your home to remove bacteria from kitchens and bathrooms, prevent surface contamination and purify the air. Try diffusing or basil oil or combining it with water in a spray bottle to rub down surfaces in your home. You can also use the spray to clean produce.
THIS is the basil oil I have and use for cleaning
Conclusion:
Now all this said, there are many other ways to kill and fight off infections, diseases, and even parasites naturally but these are a few of my top picks. You can easily incorporate them into your diet and get creative with recipes! But remember, don’t take or consume all things at once. You can overdue it. I personally stick to 2 things at a time and alternate consumption throughout the day. Please remember doses may vary between herbs and spices an you should consult an herbalist or doctor for each one and follow instructions on any herbal bottle.
If you enjoyed this post, I’d love to hear your thoughts and feedback on Instagram! See ya there! @lilsipper
