What Are The Natural Ways To Fight Against Candidiasis?

Candidiasis is a fungal infection which is caused by any type of Candida (a type of yeast). When this yeast affects the mouth then it is called thrush. Candida yeasts normally reside in the intestinal tract and can also be found on mucous membrane and skin.

Types of candidiasis:

Thrush (Oropharyngeal candidiasis)

When the yeast spreads in the mouth and throat then it can cause an infection which is called thrush. This is more common in newborn babies, elderly and person having a weak immune system.

Symptoms

• Yellow or white patches on the gums, the roof of the mouth, lips and inner cheeks
• Soreness in the mouth
• Pain during swallowing (If it spreads to the throat)

Genital Yeast infection (Genital candidiasis)

Genital yeast infection occurs when too much yeast grows in the vagina. This infection affects women more than men. In women, it is caused due to  diabetes, pregnancy, some medicines, lubricants and women who have  weak immune system.

Symptoms

• Itching in the vaginal area or on the penis
• Swelling and redness in the vulva and vagina
• Pain and burning sensation during defecation
• Cottage cheese like thick white discharge from the vagina

Invasive Candidiasis

If the yeast enters the bloodstream then it can travel to the blood, eyes, bones, heart, and brain. It can cause a serious life-threatening infection.

Symptoms

• Fever and chills

What is the natural treatment for candidiasis?

Nourish with coconut oil

Coconut oil contains caprylic and lauric acid in it  provides relief in   antifungal infections. It helps in combating the yeast which is responsible for the candidiasis. This oil also acts as an antifungal which kills or reduces the growth of fungi and also prevents infection. It is also helpful in killing the yeast when it is taken orally in a small amount.

Steps to follow:

• Add one tablespoon of extra-virgin coconut oil in your morning coffee every day.

Another step:

• Apply warm oil on the affected area and massage gently and allow the oil to penetrate deep into the skin.
• Do this several times a day daily.

Garlic

Garlic contains sulfur-containing compounds that are acting as a natural antifungal which fights against the candidiasis.

Steps to follow:

• Eat 3 to 4 cloves of raw garlic daily along with the salad.
• Another method, apply freshly extracted garlic juice on the affected area. Then wait for 5 to 10 minutes then rinse it off with water.
• Do this step daily.

Flax and Chia seeds

Flax and chia seeds contain polyphenols that support the growth of probiotics and eliminates the yeast from the body. These seeds also contain fats that fight against candida. It also contains omega fatty acids that reduce the inflammation and other symptoms related to candidiasis.

Steps to follow:

• Roast some flax and chia seeds and eat them along with the breakfast cereals.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is also very effective because it has an antifungal property that controls the growth of candidiasis.

Steps to follow:

• Add a half teaspoon of cinnamon powder to a half cup of water and boil it for 5 minutes. Strain it and add a little lemon juice.
• Drink 1 to 2 cups of cinnamon tea daily.

Olive oil

Olive oil contains a compound called oleuropein which has a powerful antifungal property. Oleuropein is also found in the olive leaf that helps in stimulating the immune system and prevents the body from infections.

Steps to follow:

• Consume 1 to 2 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil daily.

Tea tree oil

Tea tree oil has strong antibacterial property that provides relief in symptoms related to candidiasis such as itching. This oil is very effective and shows better results in yeast infection.

Steps to follow:

• Add 4 to 6 drops of tea tree oil to the bath water. Soak in that water for 15 to 20 minutes. Do this step once in a day daily.

Another method:

• Add 4 to 6 drops of tea tree oil in 2 tablespoons of Aloe Vera gel and mix.
• Apply this mixture on the affected area.
• Rinse it off with water and do this two times in a day daily.

Turmeric

Turmeric contains an active compound called curcumin that has an antioxidant property which inhibits the oxidation process. This herb acts as an anti-inflammatory and antiseptic that reduces the inflammation and also prevents the body from infections.

Steps to follow:

• Add a half teaspoon of turmeric, cinnamon and ginger each in a half cup of boiled coconut milk.
• Let it cool down and drink this tea daily.

Yogurt

Yogurt contains the strain of beneficial bacteria that help to curb the growth of candida fungi and prevents the growth of it. It also reduces symptoms related to candidiasis such as pain, swelling, redness etc.

Steps to follow:

• Consume 2 to 3 cups of yogurt daily for a few weeks.

Another step:

• Rub some yogurt on the affected area and rinse it off after 15 to 20 minutes thoroughly with warm water.
• Do this once or twice in a day daily for a few days.

Diet you should avoid

Consumption of Alcohol

Alcohol is a product prepared by a fermentation process which contains yeast and the production of yeast is more when it is ingested.

Sugar-containing diet

The diet containing sugar increases the chances of yeast infections because yeast grows rapidly in the presence of sugar. Reduce the intake of sugar-containing diets such as pastries, sweets, and fruits with added sugar content.

Grains

Grains contain carbohydrates which break down into sugars. This increases the risk of candidiasis.

Fruits to avoid

Apple, mango, pineapple, sour grapes, oranges, lemon etc

Vegetables to avoid

Garlic, onion, radish, red and green chilies, potatoes etc

Other foods to avoid

1. Caffeine-containing products such as coffee, tea
2. Saturated Fats
3. Apple cider vinegar
4. Eggs and Jaggery