Today I present a quick reference on the time-tested, safe antibacterial and antiviral herbs.
Early in my herbal adventures, I had a hunch and wanted to see if it was true.
My thinking was that foods and medicines altered by man were riddled with problems and side-effects – and that things given to man by God were so much better when used properly.
During my 20 year profession as an RN, I saw the downsides of pharmaceuticals played out repeatedly, but it wasn’t until I had my own family that I really discovered the gentle and safe medicinal value of herbs when applied with knowledge and care.
I would like to share some of what I learned and so pass this knowledge on so it doesn’t become another lost art.
The first experience with the power of herbs came when I had a prolonged kidney/bladder infection, and I was reacting to the antibiotics. Antiviral herbs Usnea/Uva ursi, D-Mannose along with Cranactin and lots of lemon water came to the rescue. I’ve never gone back to the antibiotics. There was no need to!
With my own family, I stuck to and made incredible use of the safe herbs (with research and prayer) that have been used for centuries, and you can, too! Maybe this list can set you on the path of discovery in treating viral and bacterial infections.
Before using antibacterial or antiviral herbs, please understand I am not a doctor or an herbalist, but a mother practiced in the arts of natural health over the years. I suggest doing your own research, consulting a reputable herbal medicine guide, or an herbalist for exact dosing instructions. Every body is unique and so are your specific needs. Allow that there will likely be times when it is not wise to treat an illness that is beyond your capability.
Antibacterial Herbs, alphabetically:
Cinnamon Bark (Cinnamomum sp.) has a preservative effect in food, retards bacterial growth, and has powerful antifungal properties to treat Candida albicans. It improves circulation, warms the body, and relieves discomfort in the abdomen. Whole cinnamon, taken in tea or tincture form, is an effective treatment for yeast infections that are resistant to treatment. It is useful as a treatment for thrush, an oral yeast infection. Use cinnamon as a tea, an essential oil, or add liberally to food. Always dilute cinnamon essential oil with a carrier oil to prevent stinging.
Clove (Syzygium aromaticum) is a natural topical painkiller. Clove-infused oil or clove essential oil can also be used to temporarily treat a toothache or cold sore, relieve sore muscles and arthritis, treat upper respiratory infections, improve digestion, and kill bad bacteria in the gut. Always dilute clove essential oil in a carrier oil or olive oil to apply topically and use only a little as it is strong. Use EO in a personal steam inhaler or disperse via a room diffuser when mixed with other EOs.
Echinacea (Echinacea augustifolia) has a historic reputation of boosting the immune system in treating colds and flu and fighting infections. It is known for its action to speed wound healing when taken at the beginning of an infection. Good anti-inflammatory properties. Use as a tea or tincture. Contraindicated in auto-immune diseases.
Garlic (Allium sativum) is a proven anti-fungal and antibacterial herb and more effective against several types of bacteria than penicillin. It does not cause bacteria to become resistant and destroys the offending invaders without killing the body’s normal good bacteria. Garlic can be used in a capsule, as a garlic tincture, garlic infused oil, or simply eat it raw (which is what we do when not going anywhere). Heating over 120 degrees will decrease its potency.
Peppermint (Mentha Piperita) The oil from this plant has a soothing effect on coughs and helps clear congestion to make breathing easier. It can also help build a stronger immune system and has both anti-microbial and antioxidant qualities. Effective for gas, bloating and nausea, morning sickness and stomach cramps. Additionally, it can help ease the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Peppermint is a muscle relaxer and reduces monthly cramps. Excellent for all sorts of minor pain relief due to its menthol content. It heightens alertness if drowsy. It’s my favorite breath freshener. Use the dried herb as a tea, the essential oil in a room diffuser or personal steam inhaler, or chew the leaves.
Tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) is an Australia native whose essential oil acts as a potent antimicrobial agent. Helpful for fungal nail infections, acne, and athletes foot. Studies show that it’s active against the yeast Candida albicans, and bacteria such as staph (Staphylococcus aureus). In lab studies, tea tree oil kills methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Some, but not all, studies in humans show that topical applications can eliminate colonization of the bacteria in skin and nose. Use as an essential oil topically with a carrier oil, in hand soap, or in a room diffuser. Not to be taken internally.
Thyme (Thymus) is a strong antibacterial agent as well as a strong antiseptic and antioxidant. The oil can be used within mouthwashes in order treat mouth inflammations as well as infections of the throat. Thyme contains bronchial antispasmodic and expectorant properties useful in bronchitis, upper respiratory tract inflammation, and whooping cough. All members of the family of mint, such as thyme, contain terpenoids that are well-known for battling cancer. Use dried herb as a tea, as a powerful household cleaner, or use as an essential oil. EO not for use with young children.
Usnea (Usnea barbata) for 25 years, when combined with Uva Ursi (below), this is my favorite go-to for bladder and kidney infections. This common lichen is antibacterial and antifungal. A powerful antibiotic, usnea is used to treat urinary tract infections, strep and staph infections, respiratory and sinus infections as well as fungal infections like vaginal yeast and Candida albicans. Usnea is best used as a tincture. No known precautions, but consult an herbalist before using in pregnancy.
Uva Ursi (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi) is often used as a tincture or capsule for treating urinary tract infections as it contains compounds effective at killing pathogens specific to the urinary tract. Because of its strength, it should not be used continually for longer than 2 weeks. Not to be used by children, pregnant, or nursing women or those with kidney disease.
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) The fresh leaves can be used to staunch bleeding wounds and to relieve tooth aches and canker sores when chewed. It is antibacterial and anti-inflammatory, useful for increasing bile flow (releasing toxins), eczema, fighting fevers, lessening menstrual bleeding and cramps, and increasing circulation. As a tea, yarrow is used to fight urinary tract infections. It can cause uterine contractions, so avoid during pregnancy.
Antiviral Herbs, alphabetically:
Astragalus root (Astragalus membranaceus) is an excellent antiviral herb that works to boost the immune system much like dandelion or burdock. Taken internally, either brewed as a tea, in a tincture, in a capsule, or by adding it to stew, astragalus root is known to increase your body’s defense against viruses. Astragalus root is best used as prevention, so take it during flu season or before going places with large crowds of people. Avoid if you already have a fever.
Calendula (Calendula officinalis) is a wound-healing, anti-inflammatory, and skin-soothing botanical. It is most often used topically for cuts, abrasions, skin infections, insect bites, and to treat pink eye. Calendula is antifungal and so can help to cure thrush (Candida albicans). As salve, it is great for chapped lips, facial cream, and diaper rash. You can use calendula as an infusion (tea), tincture, lotion, or salve. There are no known precautions.
Cat’s Claw (Uncaria tomentosa) In addition to being antiviral, cat’s claw is antifungal, anti-parasitic, and antiviral herb, cat’s claw is also known for boosting the immune system, increasing your body’s protection against illness. Cat’s claw can be taken as a tea, tincture, or capsule. Do not take during pregnancy or while nursing baby.
Cinnamon (Cinnamomum sp.) – see above.
Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) is a potent defense against urinary tract infections due to its ability to make the bladder lining too “slippery” to adhere to. Full of antioxidants, cranberry also has antiviral properties and prevents plaque formation on teeth. Use capsules (Cranactin) or as concentrated juice (best with no sugar added).
Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) has antiviral activity against cold and flu viruses and enhances immune function. Elderberry stimulates circulation and effectively cleanses the body. Elderberry tincture and elderberry syrup (easy to make with dried berries) are the common delivery methods. Leaves, roots, seeds, and berries of the raw plant contain cyanide-producing compounds and should not be consumed without proper preparation.
Ginger (Zingiber officinale) is another one of the antiviral herbs known for its useful properties. It is well known as a remedy for travel sickness, nausea and indigestion, colic, irritable bowel, chills, cold, flu, poor circulation, menstrual cramps, and gas. Ginger is a powerful anti-inflammatory herb helpful for joint problems and arthritis. It has also been used to lower cholesterol and blood-pressure and aid in preventing internal blood clots. Ginger can be taken as a tea (Ginger Aid), in capsule form, as an essential oil, or added liberally to foods.
Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) In Germany, the antiviral effects of lemon balm are well-documented, and creams made from the herb are prescribed for herpes outbreaks and cold sores. Lemon balm is very easy to grow in your garden – a little too easy, in fact, as it tends to take over if not contained. Lemon balm makes a very good tea, and can be drunk to combat all sorts of viral infections, such as colds and flu. The tea or a cream can be applied to cold sores or other viral lesions, such as shingles or chickenpox. May be unsafe to consume during pregnancy.
Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) is one of my favorite antiviral herbs. It is wonderful for breaking up chest and sinus congestion. Best taken as a hot tea with peppermint. Also, you can make your own mullein-infused oil. It’s a great remedy for ear infection especially when combined with garlic. Use the mullein flowers to create an infused oil.
Olive Leaf (Olea europaea) As other antiviral herbs, olive leaf is used to treat the flu, common cold and herpes. Olive leaf can be taken as a tincture, capsule, or tea mixed with mint. Avoid during pregnancy.
Oregano (Origanum vulgare) Way beyond adding great flavor to food, oregano fights viruses and bacteria as one of the best and strongest antiviral herbs available and may help in the fight against antibiotic resistance. I believe it is effective for treatment of psoriasis along (with milk thistle) because of what it did to rid my father of his horrible 20-year case. It should be avoided in infants and children, and pregnant or nursing women. I add Super Strength P73 oil to gelatin capsules. Not for prolonged use past 8-10 days.
These are just a few of the many antibacterial and antiviral herbs. I do encourage you to take control of your health through self-study and teach your children, if you haven’t already.
Doctor Yourself: Make Your Own Medicinal Herbal Tincture using some of these safe herbs above.
This is a very helpful, fun, and easily readable book on this topic: Rosemary Gladstar’s Herbal Recipes for Vibrant Health: 175 Teas, Tonics, Oils, Salves, Tinctures, and Other Natural Remedies for the Entire Family.
Do you have a favorite of the antibacterial or antiviral herbs?
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Medical Disclaimer: I am no longer a practicing medical professional, and I am not doctor. I am a mother. I do seek scientific confirmation of the safety and effectiveness of the herbs and remedies I use. Using remedies is a personal decision. Nothing I say on this blog is intended to treat or prevent disease. Consult your own doctor.
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Mindy Hoffman
Hi Jacqueline, I just read this post and am very interested in knowing just what you did to help your Dad’s psoriasis? My husband deals with this. It seems stress related, but if there is something I can do to help balance his body so he can get rid of the problem, that would be wonderful. Thanks! ~Mindy
Jacqueline
Mindy,
I was trying to remember exactly. Well, we used milk thistle (silymarin); I love this product b/ of the additional dandelion: http://amzn.to/1yKnzRn It cleans out the liver and so it can function to detox the rest of the body. Psoriasis will go away if the liver is detoxed…generally. He will need to give it at least 5-6 months of milk thistle. See last line of this link: http://www.drweil.com/drw/u/ART03161/Psoriasis.html However, my dad Dad took two 2x/d morning and evening. It has no bad side effects, so longer term is safe.
We also gave him cod liver oil by the tablespoonful. We used Carlson http://amzn.to/1nbWcua, but now think Blue Ice Fermented is better and in a capsule and not so odious http://amzn.to/1pMwN5Z at 2-3 per day for months…
Lastly, we gave Daddy Primal Defense: http://amzn.to/1qbsyjI It restores the gut to where it can absorb food properly…I see so much gut dysbiosis and then serious skin problems from that…this would be long term according to directions.
Just some thoughts. I hope that helps.
Grace and peace!
Jacquleine
Mindy Hoffman
Thank you so much!
~Mindy
Roxy
Hello, I did save this wonderful guide! Using herbs is so much safer!
Hope you are well and enjoying the fall weather!
Blessings, Roxy
Hilary
I’ll be printing this out to keep in my “medicine” cabinet. (My knowledge of using herbs and essential oils is broadening). Thank you for sharing your research with those of us who are new to this.
God bless you!
Hilary
Jacqueline
Thank you, Hillary! Keep learning my friend 🙂
Blessings to you all!
Toni
I enjoyed reading this post, Jacqueline. What would we do without the Lord’s provision in giving us herbs for healing. Wishing you a wonderful weekend!
Janet
Thank you for this great guide! 🙂
melinda sperline
hi! do you have an oil blend similar to Unguard by duterra?
Thanks,
Melinda
Jacqueline
Hi, Melinda!
I did find this: On Guard contains: wild orange, clove bud, cinnamon bark, eucalyptus radiata, and rosemary essential oils. It is so similar to the Thieves blend I shared here: https://deeprootsathome.com/my-version-of-four-thieves-oil-blend/ it simply subs the wild orange for the lemon EO switching the first two ingredients around. Cloves really needs to be the first ingredient as it is most powerful, but that is just my opinion 🙂 I hope that helps. Thank you for supporting DRAH 🙂
Karen
This is such a valuable source of information! Thank you for posting and sharing your knowledge. I’ve been interested in herbal medicine for a while, but couldn’t quite find a place to start. I have a second year yarrow plant and a first year echinacea in my garden and am eager to get to using them.
Thank you for sharing with us at Wake Up Wednesday!
Pinning & Tweeting.
Jenny K
Hi! I found you due to Pinterest! I am learning so much from your site and come back again and again for reference. I was wondering if you have compiled a list of good sources to use when learning more about herbs and essential oils. I have so much to learn! If you have already made a post like this will you direct me to it? If not, would you consider doing one for us newbies? Please feel free to send me a list via email if you have something like that already made up.
Thanks so much for sharing your wisdom.
Jenny
Glenda
Word to the wise……NEVER eat raw garlic on an empty stomach! You won’t die but you’ll wish you would……I was doubled over for an hour holding my gut. I decided popping a few in my mouth while peeling a bunch was a good idea. I hadn’t eaten in several hours. If you can do this with no adverse effects, you’ve earned the name “Iron Gut Kelly!”.
Great info!! Thank you!
Jacqueline
Haha! Yes, we have to eat the cloves with a few bites of banana or cheese, usually we do this after a meal!! 🙂
Kolette
My daughter has keratitis (cold sore on her cornea). The doctor wants to put her on a low dose of acyclovir (an anti viral) everyday. I am against this course of action and am wondering if you have any thoughts on how to keep the herpes at bay for a 7 year old? I was giving her oregano oil but after reading this article, I think I better not. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thank you.
Jacqueline
Kolette, Sorry I am behind in responding to comments.
I have read up on this problem: http://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/eye-disorders/corneal-disorders/herpes-simplex-keratitis I would one thing first and pray the Lord shows you and your child mercy so she will be spared low levels of anti-virals.
First, try the chamomile tea treatment. It may not work for this particular keratitis, but it may:
We have used this for years for conjunctivitis.
So this is what you need:
Good quality chamomile tea (Traditional Medicinals or another organic tea bag)
Filtered water
Organic cotton make-up pads (Swissper brand from the supermarket is good)
So, this is how you do it:
Boil the filtered water. Make up the tea with about a quarter to one half a cup to one tea bag or one heaped teaspoon of tea. Let brew for about five minutes. Take out the tea and let it cool down to room temperature.
Wash your hands and dry thoroughly. Dip a cotton pad into it. Squeeze a little out and wipe from inner eye to outer eye in one sweep, allowing some to get into the affected eye. It should not sting other than the normal feeling of something new in the eye (it should calm the pain down withing 15 minutes significantly). Discard pad. Wash hands again and use a new cotton wipe for the next eye. Repeat every couple of hours throughout the day.
This link http://www.naturaleyecare.com/eye-conditions/ocular-herpes/ contains other things you can do for self-help. We use monolaurin pellets which ARE wonderful and antiviral, but your child would take them on a maintenance dose forever possibly. One tub lasts 6 mo. This is what we use for Lymes and love the fact that it also addresses 14 viruses: http://www.inspirednutrition.com/store/nutrition-supplements/the-ultimate-monolaurin-an-internal-bacterial-defense-7-oz.html
I am praying the lord will lead you and praying for you to have wisdom in this situation. ((Hugs!))
Rhapsodie
Years ago I read an article that stated that honey, a drop under the eyelid can really help fight eye infections as well as protect against issues with ARED’s. That is natural honey, not a corn syrup with honey flavor. My first use resulted in a slight burning sensation, but my blood shot eyeballs, were clear the next morning and I felt so much better. Repeated uses OR as needed uses are likely to be options.
Jacqueline
I would recommend to readers here, to research that before you try it, as you need to be knowledgeable in all the aspects before self treating.
Thank you, Rhaposdie, for sharing!
I refrain from man-made treatments bc we cannot know what is in them or the full range of side-effects that can harm us… anything given by God is far better than anything man can devise!
I do all the time, but KNOW what I am doing and so should we all. Going naturally is best, but only with knowledge! ~J
Maria
Hi I’ve dealt with chronic fatigue muscle and joint pain and brain fog to varying degrees for about 15 years. Thyroid problems, I’ve tried various Adaptogen herbs and I am currently trying to cut down on sugar. I am very prone to stress and sinus infections in the last few years makes me very down considering I’m only 37 and most of the time don’t have energy for a full life are there any herbs you’d recommend? Thank you in advance
Jacqueline
Maria, I know we are all different, but have you considered using turmeric? If you are close to Indiana, our naturopath has been key to me getting over Lyme Disease. I would consider looking into that with the symptoms you share. If you are interested, I will email you. Also check this out: https://deeprootsathome.com/how-to-make-use-turmeric-golden-paste/
Nefeteria Jenkins
Hi there, I absolutely love your webpage and the tuns of life saving information. Thank you so much for your passion and dedication to helping others become knowledgeable. Natural healing should not be what is called alternative. I am seeking antiviral herbs as a supplement but am having a hard time finding one that contains several herbs altogether inclusive. I am also looking for sources where I can purchase herbs in stock. I am wanting to open an herbal storefront. Thank you so much and I plan on sharing your site.
Nefeteria
Lisa J.
Thank you for this information. It’s so helpful and much needed. I have the Rosemary Gladstar’s book you recommended. Do you have any other books on herbs you can recommend. Almost 3 yrs ago, I was diagnosed with lupus. I refuse to accept this as my portion in life and believing God for healing me of an incurable disease. Do you have any book recommendations on herbs, natural remedies or essential oils that will help with this autoimmune disease? Thank you again
Jacqueline
Hi, Lisa! I have something that has helped me and others. I will email you! ~J
Melanee Phillips
is it dangerous to eat raw elderberries? We had wild ones arou d our house and my kids would nibble on them all the time. Now.I have grandkids.
Jacqueline
Hi, Melanee! Our kids often would nibble them. I wasn’t worried as I did my research. Some have written that they are toxic, but older (REAL) herbalists say not. If you eat them in quantity, it isn’t the best, but they are so astringent and tart, it isn’t a high risk. Stephen Buhner writes:
“Elder leaf and bark are exceptionally potent medicines for a variety of things, including viral pathogens. Unfortunately bad press by adversarial medical activists in the early twentieth century spread the rumor that elder (Sambucus) is a poisonous plant. It is not. In descending order of impact the bark, leaves, and berries can cause vomiting in some people, not all. (I am not generally affected and use undecocted tinctures.) It depends on the dose and personal susceptibilities. However, if the herb is boiled (i.e., decocted) the compounds that cause vomiting are deactivated. Note: The leaves and bark are far more potent antivirals than the berries or flowers.”
https://www.shofarm-cbduck.com/resources/herbal-treatment-for-coronavirus-infections-by-stephen-harrod-buhner
I hope this helps!!
Blessings, ~J
Pamela
Hi Jackie, what do you think about using the essential oil version of all of the above mentioned herbs? Which do you think is better to keep on hand? Thank you! And thank you for all the info you share. It’s very much appreciated!
Lorinda
Hi Jacqueline, I was wondering if you would post where to purchase the herbs you mention in plant form. I have Oregano in my kitchen window planter, but is any variety fine to use? I also have a large Rosemary growing in my herb garden. I’ve tried to grow Calendula flowers from seed and have not had success. This year I am adding chamomile to the herb garden. I think in another article you mentioned Lavendar, which variety should be used in herbal uses. Is there a particular variety that is recommended for the herbs listed in your “A Quick Guide or is it just what will grow in your garden zone? Thank you for the many hours it takes to plan, research, write and blog post for us. You are a blessing!
Jacqueline
Hi, Lorinda!
I would consider linking to where to get each live herb, but sadly, that would be difficult. I’d have to make many calls to see if they are still in business before linking them.
And it is always best to buy local herbs that are acclimated to your climate.
And with the pandemic, it will be a moving target (who is open, when they will open, etc.) with many of these small businesses. Lastly, I am working on multiple deadlines, and time is really limited. I would recommend calling local to you and concentrate on the nurseries in your area. That way you can see the plants and ask questions.
For a larger national ONLINE source that I know is still shipping, consider https://thegrowers-exchange.com/collections/herbs-a-z They ship live palnts, not seeds and are reliable!
I hope that helps, and that you find what you are looking for!
Blessings, Jacqueline
Rhapsodie
In addition, know your growing zone, that way when you’re searching for the plants and seeds you have not only plants better for your growing zones, but you also get some idea as how to grow in your area. In some cases, like with chives, the seeds don’t germinate into harvest size herbs for over a year. This doesn’t mean the planting was bad, it just takes that much time for the herbs to infiltrate and grow as plants for harvest ability.
Jacqueline
Yes, that is a very good point, Rhapsodie! Thank you for mentioning that!
~J