15 antibiotics you can buy without a prescription (2023)

Antibiotics are most commonly used to treat infections. They help kill bacteria and parasites that cause infection, but are usually only available with a prescription. If you see the doctor about an illness, they may or may not prescribe you an antibiotic. If you feel you need an antibiotic, know that there are quite a few options available without a prescription.

Antibiotics work by killing bacteria in your body. This includes both good and bad bacteria. Many people are unaware that your body actually contains good bacteria that are necessary for proper digestion. For this reason, antibiotics are only used when absolutely necessary. If you decide to take an antibiotic without a prescription, you should also take a probiotic to encourage the growth of good bacteria.

You should always listen to your doctor's advice, but there are times when using a natural antibiotic can help you manage a health problem on your own without having to bother to see the doctor. To help you out, here are 15 natural antibiotics you can use to stop infections without needing a prescription.

Coconut beer

Coconut oil contains antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. Consuming this oil can help boost your immune system, prevent skin infections, and fight harmful bacteria or parasites in your digestive system. To consume coconut oil, blend it into a smoothie or stir into a hot beverage. Also, when purchasing the oil, look for organic, virgin coconut oil instead of the refined coconut oil.

Oregon grape

Oregon grape is an herb with antibiotic abilities. It contains an alkaloid called berberine, which is known to aid in digestion and kill harmful microbes. It is most commonly used in a tea or as a tincture. If you buy fresh Oregon grape root, cut off a few slices and brew your own Oregon grape tea. Steep the root slices in hot water for ten minutes and strain the tea before drinking.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar has many different uses, and apparently, acting as an antibiotic is one of them. Apple cider vinegar contains antibiotic and antiseptic compounds that can help alkalize your digestive system naturally. In addition to using apple cider vinegar as an antibiotic, consuming small doses of this vinegar may help lower your cholesterol and reduce your risk of developing certain types of cancer.

Manuka honey

While honey can act as an antibiotic, manuka honey may offer the most benefits. Manuka honey comes from bees in New Zealand that pollinate the Manuka bush. Consuming this honey can help repair infected tissue. The main active ingredient in manuka honey, methylglyoxal, contains powerful antibacterial properties. You can apply manuka honey directly to a wound to prevent infection, or consume it in small doses by adding it to your food or mixing it in a tea.

Pau D'Arco

Pau D'Arco is a food supplement made from an extract of the bark of the Pau D'Arco tree. A number of studies have shown that taking this supplement can help treat ulcers, yeast infections, and even intestinal worms. Typically, Pau D'Arco is sold in capsule form or as a dried bark tea. The tea is not always as effective as the water dilutes the antibacterial properties of the substance. Opt for the capsule form and take it as directed.

Tea Tree Essential Oil

Tea tree oil is another antibiotic that has many uses. It can be used to treat nausea, eliminate body odor, strengthen your hair and apparently kill bacteria. Topical application of tea tree oil can help prevent infections from cuts and scrapes, but should not be ingested.

Oregano beer

Oil derived from oregano also has many uses, including antibacterial purposes. To kill stomach parasites, consider taking an oregano oil pill. For skin infections, oregano oil can be applied topically. Make sure you watch the dosage if you plan to take an oregano oil pill, as consuming too much of this oil can upset your stomach and lead to digestive problems.

Fermented Foods

As mentioned before, if you want to take an antibiotic, you should take probiotics. Probiotics are needed to increase the amount of healthy bacteria in your digestive system. By eating certain fermented foods, you can generate more good bacteria while killing the unhealthy bacteria. Try eating more pickles, probiotic yogurt, or cabbage. Most fermented foods are packed with beneficial antioxidants that have a much greater impact than taking a supplement.

Garlic

Garlic can be used to reduce the risk of heart disease and relieve cold symptoms. While these are good reasons to use more garlic, it can also help kill bacteria and boost your immune system.

There are numerous ways to consume garlic. It can be added to almost any meal, it can be eaten raw or ground into a powder and used in teas. Avoid regular consumption of garlic. There is some evidence that eating garlic over a long period of time can lead to stomach bleeding and other intestinal problems.

Andrographis Paniculata

Andrographis paniculata is the name of a plant native to southern Asia. The root and leaf of the plant are used to relieve cold symptoms or skin irritation from insect bites, but it can also be used as an antibiotic. You may have trouble finding a fresh source of this plant, but you may have better luck finding a supplement in capsule form. Always follow the recommended dosages.

Echinacea

Echinacea is an herb known for its antioxidants. It can relieve pain and fight inflammation. This herb has been used by Native Americans for hundreds of years, primarily to treat injuries and prevent infection. You can find echinacea in tablet form, as an extract or as an ointment.

olive leaf extract

The olive leaf contains a polyphenol called oleuropein. This polyphenol, along with the fatty acids found in olive leaf, make it a useful herb for fighting inflammation and correcting the balance of good and bad bacteria in your digestive system. Olive leaf extract is often sold in pill form; However, you can also buy it as a topical cream or as a liquid extract.

Turmeric

Turmeric is related to ginger and contains many of the same properties. Most scientists would agree that turmeric is much more potent than its close relative. Turmeric has been used to treat stomach ulcers, reduce the risk of heart disease, and heal indigestion. The active compounds found in turmeric also make it a useful antibiotic.

If you want to consume turmeric, look for fresh turmeric root. It can be ground into a powder and added to drinks or food.

Ginger

While ginger may not be as powerful as turmeric, you may not always have easy access to turmeric. Ginger is available at any grocery store and can be used as an antibiotic. As with turmeric, you should purchase fresh ginger and cut off sections as needed. Add it to almost any meal or drink.

Kohl

Cabbage is naturally antibacterial and contains a large dose of vitamin C. This combination makes it a perfect antibiotic. As an added benefit, eating cabbage can help improve your digestive system and boost your metabolism.

Take antibiotics with caution

When choosing a natural antibiotic, always proceed with caution. Taking an antibiotic when you don't really need it can eliminate healthy gut bacteria, which take time to replace. For those who are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should always check with your doctor before trying natural remedies.

When using the natural antibiotics outlined, always use them in moderation. They are not intended for everyday consumption, at least not in the amounts you need to use them as antibiotics. Only use the antibiotic for a week or two and make sure you also take a probiotic - to start rebuilding healthy bacteria in your digestive system.