Fungal infections, such as candida and ringworm, affect people of all ages.
Oral thrush, athlete’s foot, diaper rash, and jock itch are some common fungal infections.
These infections usually occur due to poor hygiene, weak immunity, or living in warm and humid climates.
Some common symptoms of fungal infections include skin rash, redness, itching, and oozing of discharge.
This article provides general information on natural antifungals that are commonly discussed for managing symptoms of fungal infections. It is important to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
1) Ginger
Ginger is commonly used in several households for treating a wide range of elements, including fungal infections.
The antifungal properties of ginger, in combination with its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, make ginger a perfect natural remedy for managing fungal infections. [1]
Ginger can relieve redness, rashes, itching, and swelling caused by fungal infections by producing an anti-inflammatory effect.
You can use ginger as an antifungal home remedy by making ginger tea. You can simply grate a small piece of fresh ginger root and add it to a cup of boiling water.
Additionally, you can also add a few drops of lemon juice and honey to it. Then, strain the liquid and drink it warm.
2) Coconut Oil
Coconut oil possesses natural anti-fungal properties that could be attributed to the presence of caprylic acid and lauric acid in it.
These are medium-chain triglycerides that can inhibit the overgrowth of candida and strengthen the immune system.
You can consume one or two tablespoons of coconut oil every day if you are experiencing frequent fungal infections, including candida albicans.
It is also one of the best home remedies for ringworm. The topical application of coconut oil might be effective for relieving the symptoms of ringworms, such as skin rashes and itching. [2]
3) Turmeric
Turmeric contains a chemical compound called curcumin, which is highly revered for its antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.
Regular use of turmeric in cooking can lower your risk of repeated fungal infections. It might also boost your immune system and regulate your blood sugar levels, thereby tackling two of the most common causes of recurrent fungal infections. [3]
4) Garlic
Allicin in garlic acts as a powerful antifungal agent. It can clear the signs of candida infection and reduce your risk of recurrence in the future by improving your immunity. [4]
To get the antifungal benefits of garlic, you can eat 2 or 3 garlic cloves every day, preferably in the morning before food.
Alternatively, you can crush the cloves and mix them with one tablespoon of coconut oil as your anti-candida tonic.
You can also use garlic supplements.
Ben’s Organic Garlic Tincture stands out as a robust antiviral and antibacterial solution. Scientific evidence has found that garlic has a protective influence against various strains of influenza, rhinovirus, herpes, viral pneumonia, and a spectrum of gram-positive, gram-negative, and acid-fast bacteria.
5) Onion
Onion has natural antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-parasitic properties. Eating raw onion once a day can clear the fungal infection in a shorter duration.
Eating onions can be specifically beneficial for candida patients who experience swelling and water retention.
6) Sea moss
Sea moss is a nutrient-dense superfood that possesses powerful antifungal and healing properties.
Taking sea moss is specifically suitable for people who suffer from recurrent candida infections due to an underactive thyroid.
Sea moss contains a high amount of iodine, which improves thyroid functions. This can help lower the frequency and intensity of candida infections in patients with hypothyroidism.
7) Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds contain omega-3 fatty acids, which can produce antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-parasitic effects and help clear infections in a shorter duration.
You can eat 2 or 3 tablespoons of roasted pumpkin seeds every day to get relief from the symptoms of fungal infections.
8) Rutabaga
Rutabaga, sometimes called Swedish turnip, is a powerful antifungal vegetable. Rutabaga is a root vegetable that belongs to the mustard family.
The antifungal properties of rutabaga can help relieve the symptoms of fungal infections in a shorter duration.
You can use rutabaga in your regular cooking. You can add it to your vegetable soup or use it to make rutabaga mash or fries. [5]
9) Olive oil
What makes olive oil a powerful natural antifungal remedy is the presence of omega-3 fatty acids and a chemical compound called oleuropein in it.
Omega-3s and oleuropein have powerful antifungal properties. Oleuropein also has the ability to strengthen the immune system’s response to candida and other fungi. [6]
You can use extra virgin olive oil in your regular cooking. You can also mix it in an equal amount of cinnamon oil and apply it topically to relieve the skin symptoms.
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10) Lemon
Lemons contain vitamin C, which can boost immunity. Vitamin C also acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent.
The intake of lemon juice or eating other foods rich in vitamin C, such as lime, citrus fruits, and berries, can strengthen the immune system’s ability to fight off candida. It can also relieve the symptoms associated with inflammation. [7]
11) Fermented foods
Eating fermented foods, especially probiotics like yogurt, kimchi, and kombucha, can improve your gut microbiome and boost your immunity. This can enhance the body’s ability to fight fungal infections and speed up your recovery.
Regular intake of probiotic-rich fermented foods can also help prevent the recurrence of fungal infections.
Conclusion
- For those interested in natural approaches to support their well-being, exploring simple remedies may be considered. However, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for appropriate guidance.
- These natural antifungals work by producing anti-fungal effects in addition to acting as antioxidants, immunity boosters, and anti-inflammatory agents.
- You can use these remedies to relieve the symptoms of fungal infections during an acute episode or use them regularly to strengthen your immunity and prevent recurrences.
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