Natural penicillins 

What are Natural penicillins?

Natural Penicillins were the first antibiotics used in clinical practice. They are based on the original penicillin- G structure. They inhibit bacterial cell wall synthesis and are generally bactericidal.

Natural penicillins are effective against gram positive bacteria such as staphylococci, streptococci and gram negative bacteria such as meningococci, Treponema, Borrelia and Leptospira.

The natural or “first generation” penicillins are bactericidal antibiotics naturally derived from the mold, Penicillium chrysogenum. Their basic structure includes a thiazolidine ring connected to a beta-lactam ring with a variable side chain.

Some of the fungi most frequently isolated from fermented and cured meat products such as Penicillium chrysogenum and Penicillium nalgiovense are known penicillin producers; the latter has been shown to be able to produce penicillin when growing on the surface of meat products and secrete it to the medium.

A wide range of penicillin derivatives have been discovered to prevent and treat diseases most often stemming from bacterial infections. Many people have benefited from this work to treat such ailments as ear infections, strep throat, tonsillitis, and even general cuts.

What types of penicillin might I be prescribed?
  • amoxicillin.
  • amoxicillin/clavulanic acid.
  • ampicillin.
  • benzylpenicillin.
  • benzathine benzylpenicillin.
  • dicloxacillin.
  • flucloxacillin.
  • phenoxymethylpenicillin (Penicillin V)

Penicillin G and penicillin V (phenoxymethylpenicillin) are “natural” penicillins, with a narrow-spectrum of activity due to the development of penicillinases (β-lactamases active against penicillins). Staphylococci, initially sensitive to penicillin G, are now considered highly resistant.

Tetracyclines are a type of antibiotic that work on two major kinds of bacteria. Healthcare providers prescribe them to manage and treat various bacterial infections. They work by preventing the growth and spread of bacteria.

Azithromycin does not contain penicillin. At least one study I read found that patients who were allergic to penicillin did not have any reaction when taking azithromycin, so you should be fine. If you have concerns about it, you should call your pharmacist to make sure.

Penicillin can be divided into two groups, namely natural and semisynthetic penicillins. Natural penicillins are produced from the fermentation of the fungus Penicillium chrysogenum. The semisynthetic penicillins, on the other hand, are prepared from (+)-6-aminopenicillanic acid.

While traditional antibiotics have their place in modern medicine, nature offers a treasure trove of alternatives for those seeking natural remedies. Clove oil, turmeric, tea tree oil, and garlic are some of the most potent natural antibiotics for tooth infections.

List of Natural penicillins