Earthley Wellness

If you have ever been in a parent’s social media group, then you know health questions come up a lot! Since a lot of parents are newer to "natural," they often ask "When should I go to the doctor?" or "Should I get antibiotics for this?"

This inevitably leads to at least a few commenters sharing their extremely rare horror stories and then recommending that, yes, they should go to the doctor and get the antibiotics.

We get it. For our entire lives, we've been taught to trust the doctors, and that Western medicine is largely safe, effective, and pretty much the only "real" option. We don't have an accurate picture of the risks and benefits of most of these drugs. We default to what we know, because it seems better than trying an unknown that may not work or could possibly be unsafe.

The problem is, a lot of Western medications are found not safe after being found safe! And many are certainly not safe when used as frequently as our society does! Antibiotics are absolutely in that category.

Why You Should {Almost} Never Use Antibiotics

There is a lot about antibiotics that most people don't know -- or don't realize. Antibiotics do have their place, but they should be reserved for severe infections. They should not be used for run-of-the-mill ear infections and the like, and certainly shouldn't be used "just in case" in minor situations.

Why not?

Antibiotics are Mold

Even though we've all heard the story of how penicillin was discovered -- the infamous mold-on-bread story -- most people don't realize the fact that antibiotics are mold. It seems like it should be some substance derived from the mold...but it's the mold itself.

Penicillin is literally penicillium mold. Cephalosporins are derived from the fungus Acremonium. There are types that aren't mold (for example, the bacteria-based ones), but several are processed molds. Raw mold is dangerous to humans.

Now, “mold” may not mean they’re inherently dangerous for everyone; these compounds are processed and purified for medical use. However, having a mold origin can raise questions about how our bodies react, especially for those sensitive to fungi. Do you have allergic reactions to mold or antibiotics?

The key takeaway? Antibiotics are powerful substances, not casual fixes, and their origins remind us they should be questioned. Understanding this helps us approach them with caution and respect.

One Round Can Disrupt Gut Flora

Picture your gut as a thriving little world, buzzing with diverse microbes that keep you healthy – digesting food, supporting immunity, even cheering up your mood. Now, imagine a single round of antibiotics as an eraser tearing through that world.

Research shows that even one course of antibiotics can disrupt your gut microbiome, wiping out beneficial bacteria alongside the “bad guys.” This imbalance can lead to temporary digestive upset, reduced immune support, or a less happy you.

For kids, whose gut ecosystems are still growing, this disruption can be especially impactful. Studies suggest it may take weeks to months for gut flora to recover, and frequent antibiotic use can make it harder for those good bacteria to bounce back.

That’s why supporting gut health with fermented foods – like that kombucha you learned to make at our Earthley DIY class – and herbs are a gentle way to nurture your body’s balance.

FDA Note: We’re not saying antibiotics cause disease or that herbs can replace them straight up. Instead, we’re highlighting the importance of gut health and using antibiotics thoughtfully.

They’re Often Unnecessary

Raise your hand if you’ve ever been prescribed antibiotics “just in case” or for something like a cold or ear infection that would have cleared up on its own. You’re not alone! Many common ailments, like viral colds or mild ear infections, don’t respond to antibiotics because they’re not caused by bacteria. The CDC estimates that up to 30% of antibiotic prescriptions are unnecessary, which means you’re taking the risks without benefits.

For example, most ear infections in kids resolve naturally within a few days, especially with supportive care like warm compresses or rest. Overusing antibiotics for these cases doesn’t speed recovery – it just invites side effects like gut disruption (which may exacerbate the situation or allergic reactions). By focusing on hydration, rest, and natural wellness practices, you can often support your body’s own healing powers without reaching for a prescription.

Pro Tip: Always ask your doctor if antibiotics are truly needed, and explore supportive options like herbal teas or tinctures (like our Earthley Elderberry Elixir and Feel Better Fast) to keep your family feeling their best.

Resistance Is Serious

You’ve probably heard about antibiotic resistance – it’s like the supervillain of modern medicine.

Every time we use antibiotics, especially unnecessarily, we give bacteria a chance to evolve into tougher, drug-resistant versions. The World Health Organization warns that antibiotic resistance is a global health crisis, making infections harder to treat and increasing risks for everyone. In the U.S., over 2.8 million resistant infections occur yearly, and they’re no joke.

This doesn’t mean you should never use antibiotics – severe bacterial infections may need them! But using them for every sniffle or sore throat is like training bacteria to outsmart our defenses. By reserving antibiotics for when they’re truly needed and supporting wellness with natural remedies, you’re helping protect your family and the community so much more than hopping on a prescription-filled bandwagon!

Herbal Remedies Are Safer for Everyday Wellness

When it comes to supporting your body’s natural defenses, herbs can be like trusted friends – gentle, time-tested, and full of earthy wisdom. Unlike antibiotics, which are heavy hitters for severe infections, herbs like oil of oregano, garlic, echinacea, and honey offer traditional support for everyday wellness. They’re not replacements for medical treatment, but they’re wonderful for nurturing your body’s resilience, especially for minor ailments. Here’s why we love these herbal allies:

Oil of Oregano: This aromatic herb is traditionally used to support immune health and a balanced microbial environment. Its bold, spicy scent is like a pep talk for your body’s digestive and immune defenses. Add a drop to a carrier oil for topical use or consult an herbalist for internal use. Note: This herb is the heavy hitter of the herbal world. Always use diluted!
Honey: Nature’s sweetener, honey is traditionally used to soothe throats and support wellness. Its gentle, antimicrobial properties make it a favorite topical and internal option. Look for raw, local honey at your local co-op or farmers’ market!
Garlic (especially Fermented Garlic Honey): Garlic’s pungent power has been cherished for centuries to support immunity and overall vitality. Fermented garlic honey, a favorite in natural mamas’ groups, combines garlic’s benefits with honey’s soothing sweetness. Try a spoonful plain or in a tea! Garlic is a wonderful addition to many dishes and soups, like our Immunity Soup.
Echinacea: This purple coneflower is a go-to for supporting immune function. Brew it as a tea or find it in our Immune Biotic, Immunity Soup, or Feel Better Fast for a convenient way to support your overall wellness. Echinacea is best used short-term (6 weeks or less) when needed.
Astragalus Root: Astragalus root is well known for its immune-modulating properties. It supports the body's natural defense mechanisms, helping support overall wellness. Astragalus can be found in our Immune Biotic, Immunity Soup, or Feel Better Fast.
Ginger: Ginger root’s small but active constituent, gingerol, gives it antibacterial properties. It is also well known to soothe digestive woes. It is in our Elderberry Elixir, Infant Tummy Relief, and Detox Bath.
Clove: Its small but active constituent, eugenol, gives it antibacterial and antiseptic properties. It is in our Teeth Tamer, Elderberry Elixir, and Gut Health Oil.