ANTIBACTERIAL HERBS

Turmeric: Turmeric’s essential oils contain a wealth of antibiotic molecules, making this antibacterial food useful for treating topical cuts and wounds. Turmeric is also often taken in Ayurvedic medicine to prevent and treat colds and other internal infections. Cooking can destroy the fragile antibacterial molecules in turmeric, so to retain its health benefits, try these recipes.

Oregano: Essential oils in oregano lend this herb antibacterial powers that have been shown to inhibit even salmonella and E. coli bacteria. Oregano oil is also useful at boosting immunity and preventing and treating common colds. Because oregano’s antibacterial powers are found in its oil, an oregano oil supplement is better for health than dried oregano leaves.

Peppermint: Peppermint is commonly used in toothpaste, mouthwash and other oral hygeiene products—and for good reason, too. Peppermint oil has antibacterial powers that help to kill bad breath-causing bacteria in the mouth. A 2006 study found that peppermint oil was effective against 22 different strains of bacteria.

Basil: Thanks to its volatile oils, this flavorful antibacterial herb can inhibit bacteria growth. Studies have shown that basil can restrict the growth of E. coli, Listeria monocytogenes and Staphylococcus bacteria, as well as inhibit growth in strains of bacteria that have become resistant to antibiotics.
Images (top to bottom): Photo By David Goehring/Courtesy Flickr; Photo By Till Westermayer/Courtesy Flickr 


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