I'll be the first to admit it: sometimes you have to suck it up and go to the doctor for a prescription antibiotic. Generally speaking, however, antibiotics aren't super good for you. People will get them for things like ingrown toenails, acne, and sinus infections, which mostly resolve on their own over time anyway. Antibiotics can be harmful to the immune system and can kill up to 80% of our gut flora, which is critical for staying healthy. So what's this magic antibiotic herb?

Everyone, meet basil.

That's right folks. The humble basil plant is among the most powerful natural antibiotics out there. And the coolest part of all? It's super easy to grow year round. In the winter months it can be grown indoors but without a lamp, it can get a little bit spindly and not be too healthy. It loves to be outdoors in full sun.

So why is it that basil is the ultimate antibiotic? Well, it has a lot going for it. Basil has an enormous amount of vitamins A and K, as well as a variety of antioxidants. It's also loaded with potassium, calcium, iron, manganese, and magnesium. It's a regular superfood! All of these working together form into an amazing antibiotic.

So what's the best way to get basil? It's not one of those foods you just sit there and eat on its own, right? Well, when I have an infection, the first thing I do is make a pesto to top a nice, organic whole grain pasta. Read on for my personal, and dare I say amazing pesto recipe: