Naturally Preventing Re-Occurring Skin Infections

by Lauren

Hi Melissa,

Your site is wonderful! Thank you. I wanted to see if you had any advice on what I can do to prevent getting re-occurring skin infections.

Over the past 9 months I have had 4 infections. All present the same but have been on different areas of my body. They present similar to a staph infection however they do not drain. It is some type of bacteria because antibiotics do make them better. The type of bacteria has not been isolated since it is difficult to obtain a sample since it is not a open wound. If you can picture bad cellulitis, this is what it looks like.

I'm becoming quite frustrated because whenever I go to the doctors they just give me another rx of antibiotics. As you know this is just making my immune system weaker. When I do my own research on the internet about how to boost my immune system I am doing everything research and your site suggests to do. I consider myself to be a very healthy person. I can't remember the last time I was sick and I have never had any health problems, until these infections began. I exercise every day, I eat fresh organic produce and I drink a ton of water.

I wanted to see if you had any additional information about any changes that I could make in my diet or if you know of any herbs or supplements that I should be taking. I am in the process of waiting to see an infection specialist about this problem because I find it frightening that I have had to be on so many courses of antibiotics this year.

Thanks for your time, Lauren


RESPONSE


Hi Lauren,

I can see how this would be extremely frustrating for you. Two things come to mind that would be worth a try...

Have you had your vitamin D levels tested? Even if you are taking vitamin D, you might not have enough to benefit from its antimicrobial actions – between 50 and 70 ng/ml is the target range. See my page on vitamin D testing to make sure you get the right test.

Also, have you tried applying organic virgin coconut oil to the infections? Coconut oil is antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral when applied topically or taken internally. Rubbing it on the affected skin several times a day should clear it up.

If these don't work, let me know and I'll try and think of something else. The fact that it keeps coming back is cause for concern – as are all those courses of antibiotics.

Wishing you the best of health,

Melissa
Approach Wellness