What are alternative treatments to antibiotics?

Alternative treatments to antibiotics include probiotics, herbal medicine, homeopathy, and treatments like acupuncture and aromatherapy.

Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts that are good for your health, especially your digestive system. They are often called 'good' or 'friendly' bacteria because they help keep your gut healthy. Probiotics can be found in supplements and some foods, like yoghurt. They can help to restore the natural balance of bacteria in your gut when it has been disrupted by an illness or treatment. Probiotics have been used to treat conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease, and certain types of diarrhoea associated with antibiotics.

Herbal medicine, or phytotherapy, involves using plants or plant extracts to treat various ailments. Many herbs have antimicrobial properties, and some can be as effective as antibiotics in treating certain infections. For example, garlic has been found to have antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties, and echinacea is often used to fight infections and boost the immune system.

Homeopathy is a system of alternative medicine that uses small, highly diluted amounts of natural substances to stimulate the body's healing response. While the effectiveness of homeopathy is a topic of ongoing debate, some people find it a useful alternative to antibiotics for certain conditions.

Acupuncture, a key component of traditional Chinese medicine, involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body. It is believed to stimulate the body's natural healing processes and enhance its ability to resist infections. While more research is needed to fully understand how acupuncture works and its effectiveness in treating infections, some studies suggest it can be a useful adjunct to conventional treatments.

Aromatherapy uses essential oils from plants to promote health and well-being. Some essential oils, such as tea tree oil and eucalyptus oil, have antimicrobial properties and can be used to help fight infections. However, it's important to note that while these alternative treatments can complement antibiotics, they should not be used as a substitute for medical advice and treatment when antibiotics are necessary.