Antimicrobial Herbs & Remedies
Before antibiotics, humans fought infections with plants. Many of those plants are still more effective than we give them credit for — and you can grow them on your windowsill.
Before antibiotics, humans fought infections with plants. Many of those plants are still more effective than we give them credit for — and you can grow them on your windowsill.
Before antibiotics, humans fought infections with plants. Many of those plants are still more effective than we give them credit for — and you can grow them on your windowsill.
Garlic — Allicin, released when garlic is crushed, is a broad-spectrum antimicrobial. Crush a clove and let it sit 10 minutes before eating or cooking (this activates the allicin). One raw clove daily during cold season is a traditional dose.
Oregano — Carvacrol and thymol in oregano are effective against bacteria, fungi, and even some parasites. Use liberally in cooking, or take oregano oil capsules (diluted — pure oil burns). Steep fresh oregano in hot water for antimicrobial tea.
Thyme — Contains many of the same compounds as oregano. Thyme tea with honey is a traditional remedy for respiratory infections. Steep 2 teaspoons of fresh thyme in hot water for 10 minutes.
Raw Honey — Hydrogen peroxide, methylglyoxal, and bee defensin-1 give honey antimicrobial properties. Manuka honey is the most studied, but all raw honey has some activity. Never heat above 40C or the enzymes denature.
Ginger — Gingerols and shogaols have antimicrobial activity against oral bacteria and foodborne pathogens. Ginger tea or fresh ginger in meals both work.
Echinacea — Stimulates phagocytosis (your immune cells eating pathogens). Most effective at first sign of infection, not as a daily supplement. Make tea from dried root or take as a tincture.
Make fire cider with garlic, ginger, horseradish, and raw honey. Brew thyme and oregano tea at the first sign of a cold. Keep raw honey as your everyday sweetener.
Why We Made This
We started Gathered Guides because your medicine cabinet shouldn't require a pharmacy. Every remedy in this book uses ingredients you can grow, forage, or find at any grocery store.
Just the recipe. No 2,000-word life story before the ingredients list.
Every recipe was made, adjusted, and made again until it worked perfectly at home.
Designed to feel like something you'd find in a bookshop — not printed from a blog.
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