Botanical Options for Fighting Viruses
Monolaurin
This compound is derived from coconut oil and has been shown to be a potent inhibitor of viral replication. In fact, monolaurin is known to inactivate lipid-coated viruses by binding to the lipid-protein envelope of the virus, preventing it from attaching and entering host cells. This makes infection and replication impossible. Other studies show that Monolaurin works by disintegrating the protective viral envelope, killing the virus.
That's not all! Monolaurin shows antibacterial effects against a range of bacteria (including antibiotic-resistant bacteria) such as Staphylococcus aureus (Staph), Escherichia coli (E. coli), and Bacillus subtilis. In fact, the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology published a study that compared monolaurin and six common antibiotics in the treatment of skin infections.
The study concluded that monolaurin demonstrated “statistically significant in vitro broad-spectrum sensitivity” against the bacteria responsible for the skin infections. Most of the bacteria also did not display any resistance to the monolaurin.
Monolaurin's other best-known effects are related to its antifungal activity. The common fungus, Candida albicans can affect body in many ways. Monolaurin has been shown in research to treat infection with C. albicans, while also controlling the pro-inflammatory response of the body to the fungus. Also, some other fungi and microscopic organisms such as several species of ringworm and the parasite Giardia lamblia may be inactivated or destroyed by monolaurin.
It is a great tool to have in your toolbox!
Viral Studies:
In Vitro Effects of Monolaurin Compounds on Enveloped RNA and DNA Viruses
The Clinical Use of Monolaurin as a Dietary Supplement: A Review of the Literature
A Review of Monolaurin and Lauric Acid: Natural Virucidal and Bactericidal Agents
Bacterial Studies:
Fungal Studies:
In Vivo Antifungal Activity of Monolaurin against Candida albicans Biofilms
In vitro evaluation of antifungal activity of monolaurin against Candida albicans biofilms
Olive Leaf Extract
We may be more familiar with the benefits of olive oil but olive trees provide another beneficial extract! Their leaves contain oleuropein, which is a polyphenol that may help with many different things. This is also another potent botanical that has been studied on viral inhibition, antifungal activity, and antibacterial effects.
Viral Studies:
Olive Leaf Extracts Act as Modulators of the Human Immune Response
Fungal Studies:
Antifungal Activity of Oleuropein against Candida albicans-The In Vitro Study
Bacterial Studies:
The antimicrobial activities of olive leaf extract against some pathogenic bacteria
Assessment of the Antimicrobial Activity of Olive Leaf Extract Against Foodborne Bacterial Pathogens
Botanical Options for Fighting Yeast
Grapefruit Seed Extract
Grapefruit seed extract (GSE) is a supplement made from the seeds and pulp of grapefruit and is available in liquid and capsule forms. Like some of the other botanicals listed, this can be effective against bacteria and some literature suggests it can also be effective against some viruses. A great deal of the scientific literature focuses on its potent antifungal activity. The GSE liquid can be added to saline for anti-microbial nasal spray applications or diluted and used to support ear canal health. In fact, we created a GSE Usage Guide to provide information on other ways to use GSE effectively. Click here to view this guide.
Fungal Studies:
[Effects of 33% grapefruit extract on the growth of the yeast--like fungi, dermatopytes and moulds]
Bacterial Studies:
Antimicrobial activity of grapefruit seed and pulp ethanolic extract
Viral Studies:
Grape Seed Extract for Control of Human Enteric Viruses
Some of the products above have been combined in our Yeast Control Packages because of the research and efficacy. The benefits to a package is that by rotating the different herbs/botanicals, it can reduce the ability of microorganisms to become resistant to treatment.
Botanical Options for Fighting Bacteria
Oregano Oil
Oregano is not just for Italian food! It is an effective natural antibiotic, antifungal, and antiviral agent. Some studies also show it paired with other products (like Monolaurin) for even more effective results. We also combine this product in with other botanicals in our Yeast Control Package (capsule form).
Bacterial Studies:
Antimicrobial activity of carvacrol: current progress and future prospectives
Fungal Studies:
Antifungal activities of origanum oil against Candida albicans
Viral Studies:
Essential Oils of Oregano: Biological Activity beyond Their Antimicrobial Properties
Garlic
Many people love the flavor of garlic, but its botanical benefits go far beyond just the taste. You may have heard of a compound called Allicin. It is produced when garlic is crushed or chopped. Fresh garlic contains an amino acid called alliin and when a clove of garlic is crushed or chopped, an enzyme, alliinase, is released. Alliin and alliinase interact to form allicin, which is considered the biologically active component of garlic. AlliMax, available in both liquid and capsules, offers one of the most potent and effective forms of allicin on the market without creating a strong garlic odor in people taking it.
Bacterial Studies:
In Vitro Inhibition of the Growth of Helicobacter pylori by Oil-Macerated Garlic Constituents
Fungal Studies:
Antimicrobial properties of allicin from garlic
Parasitic Studies:
As you can see, while certain botanicals have specific effects on viruses, fungi, and bacteria, in many cases they are beneficial in balancing the body against several of these at the same time. We have attempted to share the products in their strongest categories in the hopes that it provides the information you need to make the best decision as to which product(s) to discuss with your physician and begin using.
If you want to use botanicals as part of a protocol to address candida, bacterial overgrowth, viral infection, or mold exposure, we have many options to choose from with potency and purity as our priority.
