HOME | AMR

WHO AMR Resources

Research Articles on the Role of Natural Health Products and AMR

Naturopathic Management of Acute Pediatric Respiratory Infections: A Modified Delphi Study

Global burden of bacterial antimicrobial resistance in 2019: a systematic analysis

Review Article: The Contribution of Complementary and Alternative Medicine to Reduce Antibiotic Use: A Narrative Review of Health Concepts, Prevention, and Treatment Strategies

Adams, J et al. Public Health and Health Services Research in Traditional, Complementary and Integrative Health Care; International Perspectives. World Scientific 2019.

Wardle, J. Complementary Medicines. A Public health Perspective. University of Technology Sydney, 2018

Novel approach to combat antibiotic resistance: Evaluation of some Armenian herb crude extracts for their antibiotic modulatory and antiviral properties.

“The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) as a global health issue. According to the WHO AMR is defined as “Antimicrobial resistance happens when microorganisms (such as bacteria, fungi, viruses, and parasites) change when they are exposed to antimicrobial drugs (such as antibiotics, antifungals, antivirals, antimalarials, and anthelmintics). Microorganisms that develop antimicrobial resistance are sometimes referred to as “superbugs”. [1.1]

Over 70% of human's exposure to antibiotics comes from healthy animals that have given antibiotics to address unsanitary conditions, stress and crowding situations.
A major reason why antibiotics are given to certain animals, especially poultry, is because of their growth promoting effects, not necessarily to prevent infection.
Avoid meat and other products that have antibiotics, and/or other substances within them that increase the risk of AMR. [1.2] [1.3]

Prevention of serious infections is the ultimate goal [1.8]
Practice proper hygiene
Strengthen overall digestive and immune health

Follow the naturopathic assessment process
Distinguish between bacterial, viral, parasitic and fungal infections
Identifying the root cause(s)

Address dietary and lifestyle factors
Support your natural healing ability
Explore natural treatment options to AMR [1.5] [1.6] [1.7]
Support your immune system, especially during times of higher risk of exposure to infectious disease, including during certain seasons (eg. winter), when travelling (eg. in airplanes) or during times of high stress (eg. during school exams, demanding times at work).

The following outlines the naturopathic approach to AMR and the research supporting a naturopathic prevention, assessment and treatment approach.

SUPPORT YOUR

IMMUNE SYSTEM

IDENTIFY THE

UNDERLYING CAUSE

EXPLORE NATURAL

TREATMENT OPTIONS

AVOID MEAT

WITH ANTIBIOTICS

DON'T

SHARE ANTIBIOTICS

The overuse and misuse of antibiotics not only contributes to AMR, but it can be dangerous to your health. Antibiotics can be an effective treatment against specific bacteria, but if they are used inappropriately can increase your risk to more severe infections. It is also important not to share antibiotics as there are many different types of antibiotics and it is important for a medically trained practitioner to determine which one is appropriately for you. [1.4]
When the use of antibiotics is indicated finish the entire course as prescribed by your doctor. Do not stop taking the antibiotics the moment you feel better. This could lead to growth of more resistant strains of bacteria.

DON'T USE ANTIBIOTICS

FOR VIRAL INFECTIONS

Infections can be caused by bacteria, viral, fungal or parasitic factors. Also some inflammatory and environmental factors can have symptoms that mimic infections. To help reduce the risk of AMR, only use antibiotics when they are absolutely necessary and include natural treatment options as an important part of the treatment plan.
Only use antibiotics, and other antimicrobial medications, when there is clear indication to do so, mostly based on laboratory diagnosis but also sometimes based on very specific signs and symptoms.