Antibacterial
Agents
There are
many herbs which are antimicrobial in nature. Most important being
Tulsi (Ocimum), neem and turmeric.
The uses of
these herbs are in different ways; Tulsi is used to disinfect the surroundings, it
purifies air so it is grown in courtyards and indoors. It also finds place as
an ingredient in medicine for respiratory tract infections and other lung
related illnesses.
Neem is known
for its antimicrobial effect on both fungus and bacteria. It is used as
medicine for many skin ailments. Neem is an active ingredient of many herbal
soaps and cosmetics. Neem oil finds a place in agriculture too where it is
widely used as herbal pesticide, the residual neem cake also finds its use as a
fertilizer plus antifungal in property.
Another
common spice which is widely used as an antimicrobial is turmeric. Turmeric is
an indispensable ingredient in Indian cuisine and used as medicine too.
Curcumin which is an active ingredient of turmeric is know to have anti-cancer
property too.
Garlic and
ginger also find an important place as food which has antimicrobial properties,
especially cooking meant or fish. They can nullify the toxic effect, if any, of meat.
Single herbal
drugs (having only one ingredient) are available in the market now; they adorn
a prominent place in Ayurvediс treatment in India and elsewhere.
Neem, Haridra, and Tuslsi are available in tablet forms.
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