Natural Antimicrobials Every Prepper Should Know About

For preppers, being prepared means more than just storing food and water. Maintaining good hygiene and having access to natural remedies for minor infections are essential. Antimicrobials are substances that inhibit the growth of or destroy harmful microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses. While pharmaceutical options are effective, natural alternatives can be just as useful and are often more sustainable for long-term preparedness.

Here’s a guide to natural antimicrobials that every prepper should consider adding to their toolkit.

Why Consider Natural Antimicrobials?

Natural antimicrobials come with a variety of benefits for preppers:

• Sustainability: Many natural options can be grown, harvested, or prepared at home.
• Multipurpose Uses: Many natural antimicrobials carry additional health benefits, such as acting as anti-inflammatories or immune boosters.
• Long Shelf Life: When properly stored, natural substances like essential oils and dried herbs can last for months or even years.
• Self-Sufficiency: Knowing how to source and use natural antimicrobials reduces reliance on external supply chains.

Top Natural Antimicrobials for Preppers

1. Honey

• Why It’s Useful: Honey, especially raw or Manuka honey, contains natural antimicrobial and wound-healing properties. It also creates a protective barrier that prevents infection.
• How to Use It:
• • Apply directly to minor cuts, scrapes, or burns.
  • Use as a natural cough suppressant or to soothe a sore throat.
• Shelf Life: Virtually indefinite when stored properly.

2. Garlic

• Why It’s Useful: Garlic contains allicin, a compound with powerful antibacterial and antiviral properties.
• How to Use It:
• • Crush raw garlic cloves and use them to cleanse wounds (dilute to prevent irritation).
  • Consume raw garlic to boost immunity or fight internal infections.
• Shelf Life: A few months when stored in a cool, dry place.

3. Tea Tree Oil

• Why It’s Useful: Tea tree oil is a versatile antimicrobial agent effective against bacteria, fungi, and viruses.
• How to Use It:
• • Mix a few drops with a carrier oil (e.g., coconut oil) and apply to skin infections or fungal issues like athlete’s foot.
  • Add to water as a natural disinfectant for cleaning.
• Caution: Tea tree oil should not be ingested and should always be diluted before using on the skin.
• Shelf Life: Approximately 1–2 years when stored in a dark, cool place.

4. Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)

• Why It’s Useful: ACV contains acetic acid, which has antibacterial and antifungal properties.
• How to Use It:
• • Dilute in water and use as a skin cleanser for minor irritations.
  • Gargle with a diluted mix of ACV and water to combat sore throats.
• Shelf Life: Indefinite when stored in a sealed container.

5. Oregano Oil

• Why It’s Useful: Oregano oil is a potent antimicrobial due to its active compound, carvacrol, which has antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties.
• How to Use It:
• • Dilute with a carrier oil and apply to skin infections.
  • Take a few diluted drops internally to support immune health (ensure the oil is food-grade and follow dosage instructions).
• Shelf Life: Around 1–2 years when stored correctly.

6. Coconut Oil

• Why It’s Useful: Coconut oil contains lauric acid, which has antimicrobial, antiviral, and antifungal properties.
• How to Use It:
• • Apply directly to the skin for treating minor cuts, wounds, or fungal infections.
  • Incorporate into your diet for overall health benefits.
• Shelf Life: Up to 2 years in a cool, dry place.

7. Echinacea

• Why It’s Useful: Known for its immune-boosting properties, echinacea is also antibacterial and antiviral.
• How to Use It:
• • Brew echinacea flowers, stems, or roots into a tea to fight colds or infections.
  • Take as a tincture to ward off illness during high-risk times.
• Shelf Life: Dried echinacea can last up to 1 year if stored properly.

8. Silver Solution (Colloidal Silver)

• Why It’s Useful: Colloidal silver is a liquid solution with antimicrobial properties. It’s often used as a natural disinfectant and wound treatment.
• How to Use It:
• • Use as a topical treatment for minor wounds or infections.
  • Use sparingly and only with guidance for internal applications.
• Caution: Long-term or excessive use can lead to potential health issues like argyria.
• Shelf Life: Years if stored in a dark bottle and kept away from sunlight.

9. Aloe Vera

• Why It’s Useful: Aloe vera has antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties in addition to its soothing and anti-inflammatory effects.
• How to Use It:
• • Apply the gel directly from the plant to minor burns, cuts, or skin irritations.
• Shelf Life: Weeks if fresh; much longer if stored as a stabilized gel.

10. Clove Oil

• Why It’s Useful: Clove oil is a powerful antifungal, antibacterial, and analgesic (pain-relieving) agent.
• How to Use It:
• • Use diluted clove oil to treat gum infections or toothaches.
  • Mix into cleaning solutions for an antimicrobial boost.
• Caution: Always dilute before use, as clove oil can cause skin irritation.
• Shelf Life: Around 1–2 years.

Tips for Creating a Natural Antimicrobial Kit

• Store Properly: Keep oils and tinctures in dark, cool, and dry places to extend their shelf life.
• Label Everything: Clearly mark expiration dates and usage instructions on all items.
• Learn Proper Use: Some natural antimicrobials need to be diluted or used sparingly.
• Grow Your Own: Consider growing plants like garlic, aloe vera, and echinacea for a renewable supply.

Final Thoughts

Natural antimicrobials are excellent additions to any prepper's health and first aid arsenal. While they should not replace professional medical treatment for severe conditions, they provide a sustainable, effective way to manage minor infections and protect your health in challenging situations.

Start building your natural antimicrobial kit today and strengthen your preparedness for whatever comes your way! Keep in mind, the information provided in this document is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider before using any natural remedies. Stay safe and stay prepared!

Remember, building a natural antimicrobial kit is just one aspect of being prepared for emergencies or disaster situations. It's important to also have a well-stocked first aid kit, non-perishable food and water supplies, and other essential items that will support your health and survival.

It's also crucial to regularly reassess your kit and update it as needed. As plants can vary in potency depending on factors such as climate and soil conditions, it's essential to research and stay informed about the plants in your kit. Consider taking classes or workshops on herbalism and natural remedies to expand your knowledge and skills.

In addition to having a physical kit, it's also helpful to have a plan in place for using natural antimicrobials in different scenarios. This could include knowing how much of a remedy to use, when and how often to administer it, and how long it should be used for. It's always better to be prepared and knowledgeable than caught off guard during an emergency.