Antibacterial Plants

Juniper

• Featuring dark purple aromatic berries, juniper -- an evergreen plant -- is a natural diuretic with weak antibacterial properties. The antibacterial aspects of juniper work to help detoxify skin and kill bacteria that cause acne. Grown both indoors and out, juniper is a common choice for bonsai trees. Juniper requires well-drained soil and partial shade to grow properly.

Garlic

• Even though it can cause bad breath, garlic provides health benefits such as antibacterial properties. In the same family as onions and leeks, garlic is also an anti-inflammatory plant. Garlic may help keep common colds and flu at bay. Treating various bacteria including those that cause acne, garlic is a natural broad-spectrum antibiotic. Grown both indoors and out, garlic bulbs need well-drained soil and full sun for proper growth.

St. John's Wort

• Also known as Tipton's weed, St. John's wort is a common natural treatment for depression. This yellow-flowering plant also treats premenstrual syndrome, minor burns and menopause. Furthermore, the antibacterial and antiviral properties of the plant naturally fight infections and some antibiotic-resistant bacteria. St. John's wort grows best in warm, sandy soil and partial light.

Anise

• A member of the carrot family, anise is an herb that grows to the height of about 3 feet. Besides antibacterial uses, anise promotes proper bowel movements and naturally treats stomach issues. Tea created from anise will help relieve colds and congestion without prescription medicine. Anise will kill the bacteria growing in your mouth that cause bad breath. To freshen your breath throughout the day, chew on anise seed in the morning.

Chamomile

• Commonly found in tea, chamomile features calming properties that work to help sleep come more quickly. The antibacterial, anti-allergenic and anti-inflammatory characteristics make chamomile a versatile natural treatment for a variety of ailments, including anxiety, acne, stomach ulcers, chickenpox, digestive problems and skin irritations. Commonly seen growing in the wild, this daisy-like plant requires well-drained soil with full to partial sunlight.

Sandalwood

• From the Santalum genus of trees, sandalwood's fragrant characteristics make it a common material for incense. Sandalwood contains antibacterial and antiseptic traits, and is a common ingredient in soaps and face scrubs. The antibacterial qualities of sandalwood help to clear acne and blackhead breakouts. However, you should never apply pure sandalwood oil to your skin; you must dilute it before use.