Penicillin was an accidental discovery I believe
The cell wall contains not only cellulose and protein, but other polysaccharides as well. The cell wall provides structural support and protection. Pores in the cell wall allow water and nutrients to move into and out of the cell. The cell wall also prevents the plant cell from bursting when water enters the cell.
Since acid is less than 7, you'd want the remedy to be more than 7.