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Alternatives to Antibiotics

Although antibiotics are useful for treating serious infections, the overuse of them has caused many bacteria to become resistant. At Balance of Life Clinic, our integrative medicine providers in Medina, OH offer alternatives to antibiotics and other treatments designed to complement your traditional health care. Here, we explore some of the best alternatives to antibiotics and how they’re used.

IV Therapy

Nutritional IV therapy is used to enhance overall health and treat a range of conditions. Because IV treatments are administered directly into the bloodstream, they help the body better absorb nutrients, vitamins, and other substances that can help fight bacterial infections. We offer several different types of IV therapy and tailor treatment to meet your specific needs.

Some IV therapies that are used as alternatives to antibiotics and help your body find optimal balance include:

• High-Dose Vitamin C Therapy – Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can boost the immune system, enhance energy levels, reduce inflammation, and fight infection.
• Ozone IV Therapy – Introducing ozone gas into the bloodstream helps enhance delivery of oxygen to cells, stimulates the immune system, and optimizes pro- and antioxidants. Because of its antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal properties, it’s often used to treat infections caused by antibiotic-resistant bacteria. It can be particularly effective for wound healing and treating autoimmune disorders and respiratory conditions.
• Glutathione IV Therapy -A potent, naturally occurring antioxidant found in plants and animals, glutathione helps the body rid itself of toxic free radicals and enhances the immune system. It can also help improve chronic infections, fight, and prevent disease, reduce inflammation, and support your overall health and wellness.
• NAD+ IV Therapy – NAD+ is a natural coenzyme that supports cellular repair and energy production and plays a vital role in a range of metabolic processes. It is often used for detoxification, neurodegenerative diseases, boosting immune function and reducing inflammation.

IV therapy may also be used in conjunction with antibiotics to treat Lyme disease, which is caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi.

Herbs and Supplements

Many herbs and plants have been used as natural antibiotics for centuries. Some of the most popular herbs and supplements used to combat bacterial infections include:

Garlic – Allicin is a compound with robust antibacterial and antifungal properties and is found in garlic. Eating it raw or taking it as a supplement can help fight infection.

Oregano Oil – Rich in carvacrol and thymol, oregano oil is a powerful antimicrobial that is sometimes used for respiratory and digestive infections.

Echinacea – A well-known immune booster, echinacea can help reduce the severity of infections and speed recovery.

Goldenseal – This perennial herb contains berberine, a compound known for its antibacterial and immune-boosting properties. Goldenseal is often combined with echinacea to treat and prevent colds and other seasonal illnesses.

Colloidal Silver – A natural antimicrobial agent that inhibits the growth of bacteria, viruses, and fungi, colloidal silver also supports your immune system by interfering with the enzymes that pathogens need to survive and multiply. Taking it does come with some risks and side effects, so it should always be administered under the care of an integrative medicine provider or healthcare professional.

Viracid – This immune system-supporting dietary supplement contains a blend of vitamins, minerals, herbs, and other natural ingredients that help the body fight off infections more effectively.

Probiotics

The beneficial bacteria in your gut help maintain a balanced microbiome and help prevent harmful bacteria from taking over. High-quality probiotic supplements and eating probiotic-rich foods such as sauerkraut, kimchi, yogurt, and kefir can help enhance gut health and boost immunity. Probiotics can be especially beneficial to take after a course of antibiotics to restore balance in the gut.

In addition to enhancing your gut health and overall well-being, eating a balanced diet rich in whole foods, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory nutrients can strengthen the immune system and help you avoid the need for frequent use of antibiotics.

Alternatives to Antibiotic Ointments

Manuka Honey – Native to New Zealand and Australia, manuka honey has been used to treat wounds and burns for centuries. It contains methylglyoxal, a compound with powerful antibacterial properties.

Essential oils – Tea tree, thyme, peppermint, and lavender oils have been known to have antibacterial properties that fight infection. These oils can be used in aromatherapy, diluted for topical application, or added to natural cleaning solutions to reduce bacterial contamination.

Natural antiseptics such as hydrogen peroxide, witch hazel, and aloe vera can also prevent infection and support healing when used alone or in conjunction with antibiotic ointments. An alternative medicine provider can assess your specific needs and create a specialized treatment plan to enhance your whole-body health.

Learn More About Alternatives to Antibiotics at Balance of Life Clinic

Whether you’re feeling under the weather or want to enhance your overall health and well-being with integrative medicine, our dedicated team at Balance of Life Clinic can help. We serve patients throughout Northeast Ohio. To schedule an appointment with an alternative medicine provider in Medina, OH, contact us or call us at 330-764-4242 or toll-free at 877-764-4242.