Staphylococcus is a Gram-positive bacterium which causes a number of infections. Due to the widespread use of inappropriate antibiotics, Staphylococcus has become resistant and the infection is difficult to treat.
Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) is a skin infection, if left untreated it can result in infections of the blood, lungs, or the urinary tract. It can happen in both young and adults in the form of mild skin infection, treating MRSA is difficult.
Home Remedies For MRSA
Home remedies which are mostly composed of natural elements can be helpful in treating MRSA-
Tea Tree Oil. It possesses powerful antibacterial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties which help in treating MRSA and provides a soothing effect. Therapeutic grade tea tree oil should be used/. It should be used in diluted form as the concentrated liquid can cause irritation. Do not apply it on open wounds as it increases discomfort. The efficacy of tea tree oil was published in the American Journal of Infection Control. 2-3 drops of oil can be diluted in olive oil tea tree oil water bath can help in preventing colonization. It will have a synergistic effect with African geranium (Pelargonium sidoides), lemongrass, thyme, and lavender.
Garlic. This ingredient can be found in almost all the houses. Garlic cloves can be mashed and used on the infected skin or the infected area can be washed with garlic soaked water. Garlic helps in maintaining pH of the skin. It is composed of natural components, allicin which acts as a strong antibiotic. Allicin is a complex compound and it will be difficult for the bacteria to become resistant to it. Garlic is also an immune booster because of sulfur compounds. Garlic is recommended as a food supplement for many people by the doctors for controlling cholesterol and also as an aphrodisiac. Garlic oil can be applied on the infected area and covered with a bandage.
Oregano Oil. This is obtained from the herb Oregano and has the tendency to combat infections caused by virus, fungi, and bacteria. It also possesses anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It is found to be effective in treating MRSA infection. Oregano oil is also used for infections caused by E. coli and Salmonella. There are studies published in Georgetown University Medical Center and the Journal of Medical Microbiology which supports Oregano oil effectiveness in controlling MRSA infection. Oil should be diluted before use. It can apply topically on the affected area or consumed in water or fruit juice. Pregnant women should prevent intake of Oregano oil.
Aloe Vera. It has been traditionally used to treat antibiotic-resistant infections. It can be applied topically on the skin, apart from exerting the antibacterial action; it also soothes and moisturizes the skin. It promotes healing and reduces redness. There is a widespread data available indicating the antibacterial and antimicrobial property. Aloe vera can be used alone or in combination. Aloe vera in combination with turmeric powder can be applied and left with a bandage. Apply it regularly until the infection goes.
Turmeric. It is a natural component present in all household. It possesses powerful immune-boosting properties along with anti-inflammatory and antiseptic. It has been traditionally used as antibacterial and applied on wounds. The active ingredient in turmeric is curcumin.
Green Tea (Camellia sinensis) in the form of infusion, powder in capsules, cream or ointment is effective in treating MRSA as it contains epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) and epicatechin gallate which has disease-modifying properties. Chocolate (Theobroma cacao) also contains EGCG; hence consuming large amounts of dark chocolates can be helpful.
Conclusion
MRSA is difficult to treat a skin infection, as bacteria have developed resistance to antibiotics. A number of home remedies are available such as tea tree oil, garlic, green tea, chocolate, oregano oil, and turmeric. Although these home remedies are effective, careful monitoring is required for persistence of symptoms. Seek medical advice in case of any complications, untreated MRSA can be fatal.
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