Anti- fungal herbs and essential oils are the perfect treatment for fungal infections that occur anywhere on the body. Though the usual place for them is the skin, fungal infections can also infect the lungs, internal organs, throat and mouth. We are probably more attuned to thinking about bacterial or viral infections, but it is important to remember the symptoms of fungal infections. The reason is that fungal infections are among the easiest to treat if you start on them in their early stages. Here are the best anti-fungal herbs and essential oils.
Anti-fungal herbs and essential oils
Oil of Oregano – is considered one of the strongest inhibitors of internal yeast infection (Candida). Unlike manufactured antibiotics; there is no known tendency for microbes to develop resistance to the effectiveness of oregano. The oil can kill or halt the growth of virtually any fungus and a great majority of bacteria.
Garlic – is a powerful immune-system booster that causes the body to create more natural killer cells that come in handy during a case of fungal infection. To have the greatest effectiveness, garlic should be used raw. For anyone who can’t take the taste of raw garlic, puree it in a blender with a little water or oil and apply it to the bottom of the feet. This is an age-old method, which allows the beneficial agents of the garlic to absorb into the body via the tender skin
Pau d’Arco Tea – has documented antifungal properties. In his book 1000 Cures for 200 Ailments, Dr. Geovanni Espinosa suggests that you drink two cups a day of pau d’arco tea for the maximum benefit.
Tea Tree Oil – is very commonly used for skin conditions. It acts as a natural fungicide against Malassezia furfur (the fungus that causes pityriasis versicolor), folliculitis, intertrigo, seborrheic dermatitis, and dandruff
Black Walnut (hull) – is one of the most common and effective natural ingredients in antifungal, antiparasitic, antibacterial and herbal formulations. It is a natural antiseptic.
Barberry – is one of the three most common western medicinal roots containing berberine, which has potent antifungal properties. Barberry demonstrates significant antifungal activity while leaving beneficial microflora in the gut intact. It can be taken internally for up to a week at a time.
Calendula – is commonly known as marigold. It has antifungal, anti-inflammatory properties.
Chamomile – has anti-fungal, antibacterial, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory properties. It’s widely known for its natural sedative qualities. Two of its most common uses are to treat wounds and as a sleep aid.
Cinnamon (Bark) – has anti-fungal, antiviral and antibacterial properties. It is particularly effective against Candida Albicans, the fungus responsible for yeast infections. Cinnamon chewing gum has a strong antibacterial effect in the mouth and can get rid of bad breath.
Cloves – contain some of the same phenols as Oil of Oregano, namely carvacrol and thymol, among others. They are highly antifungal in nature, as well as antimicrobial.
Geranium – exhibits antifungal, antiviral, analgesic, antidepressant, antiseptic, astringent, deodorant, and antibacterial properties.
Goldenseal – is another of the three most common western medicinal roots containing berberine, which has potent antifungal properties. Berberine demonstrates significant anti-fungal activity while leaving beneficial microflora in the gut intact.
Lavender – has generalized anti-fungal and antibacterial qualities, making it good to have around the house.
Turmeric – is documented to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, and anti-cancer properties. It acts as a blood purifier, and shows the ability to lower blood sugar levels. Turmeric has been shown to inhibit the growth of intestinal parasites H. Pylori and Giardia Lambria.
Don’t forget that for these anti-fungal herbs and essential oils to work at their best, treatment must be begun when symptoms first appear.
