But many cultures, both old and new, are well known for tapping into the power of the Earth by using herbal remedies. And to this day, experts attest to the variety of herbs that can treat various health conditions, including acting as natural antibiotics, working much differently to destroy microorganisms than their pharmaceutical counterparts. In fact, antibiotic herbs have been proven to not compromise the immune system as traditional antibiotics can, helping to make the body healthier overall.

There is an important side note: most herbal remedies are not as fast-acting, or as strong, as regular antibiotics, so they are not recommended for use in emergency health situations.

But, as far as prevention, the below herbs are very effective at helping prevent particular illnesses from even showing up in the first place:

1. Garlic. If you can get over that potent aroma, garlic is highly esteemed for helping people to stay healthy in a wide array of instances. As a matter of fact, garlic has been found, in some cases, to bestow stronger effectiveness than penicillin when used as an antibiotic.

The natural antibiotic properties of garlic stem from its' main ingredient, allicin. Allicin is also what causes that distinctive odor to emanate from people's bodies after having digested an ample amount of it. Scientists have discovered that just some of the benefits of consuming garlic on a regular basis include extra protection from breast, prostate and colon cancer, as well as heart damage prevention, high cholesterol levels and even acne.

2. Goldenseal. The magic ingredient in goldenseal is berberine, which increases the supply of blood circulation to the liver, spleen, pancreas, thyroid and lymphatic system. It also has great bacteria-fighting properties, and can be used to treat problems with the digestive system (particularly gastritis and E. coli infections).

Goldenseal is also extremely effective in helping to regulate women's menstrual cycles and relieving irritation and itching of the vagina, even soothing a yeast infection.

The highest recommended form of goldenseal is its root variety.

3. Echinacea. Echinacea is yet another wonderful natural remedy. Its primary benefit is in aiding dilemmas pertaining to folk's lymph glands. It contains antibiotic elements that are good for people suffering from respiratory problems and enlarged prostate glands, as well as infections of the urinary tract, vagina, ear and sinuses.

When used as a topical solution, echinacea can also help heal eczema, psoriasis, slow-healing wounds and hemorrhoids. It can even be used as an effective sunscreen!

4. Kelp. Kelp is well-known for its ability to regulate and balance various glands, thus supporting cell membranes, pancreas, prostate and the digestive system. Not only can it signal thyroid glands to pump out more iodine, another infection fighter, it can also help control the pituitary glands and help control hair loss. Because it’s rich in calcium, iron and potassium, kelp also supports women who are menstruating, pregnant or nursing.

Before taking the above or any other medicinal herbs, always be sure to first consult with a professional alternative health practitioner (not the sales associate at your local health food store). And never forget to talk to your doctor as well, since there are certain ailments that herbs either cannot help with or just aren’t effective enough in providing longer-lasting results.

By Nicole Smith, BDO Staff Writer