and building on the exploration of foods as antifungal agents by looking at the role of herbs and spices in combating fungal infections. Read on for sixteen herbs, spices, and supplements to consider incorporating into your diet to prevent fungal overgrowths.

Oregano essential oil, derived from the leaves and flowers of the oregano herb Origanum vulgare , is one of the most commonly used culinary herbs.

It has also been consumed for centuries for its medicinal properties, dating back to ancient Greek and Roman civilizations. This is thanks to two naturally-occurring antimicrobial agents found in oregano oil, carvacrol and thymol.

Turmeric Curcuma longa is another natural substance that has been shown to have potent antifungal properties. While this study involved fungi typically found on plants, the mechanism of action may apply to fungi that plague humans as well. It is worth noting that while turmeric contains curcumin, the compound that gives the spice its distinct golden color and taste, the greatest fungal-inhibiting effects may actually be due to another compound called curdione.

Although curcumin alone can also inhibit fungal growth, turmeric may offer stronger benefits, so add a shake of the earthy spice into your next meal.

Source , Source. In , one study found that cinnamon oil was able to break down the biofilm of C. albicans in the gut. However, it is not clear what the clinical significance of this is. Source , Source Findings from studies suggest that the bark extract may protect against and prevent the growth of disease-causing fungi.

Derived from the leaves of the tea tree Melaleuca alternifolia , tea tree oil has demonstrated various biological activities, including antifungal activity. In a study that examined the antifungal activity of tea tree oil against 10 different fungal species, researchers found that tea tree oil was effective against both yeast and mold species.

In fact, they found that tea tree oil was more effective against the yeast species than the mold species. Extracted from coconut and palm kernel oils, caprylic acid can be used topically to help treat skin infections , thanks to its antimicrobial properties.

Caprylic acid is also commonly sold as an over the counter supplement for oral and vaginal candidiasis. Its short-chain fatty acids penetrate the cell wall of the yeast and cause it to rupture, preventing its growth.

In fact, some studies have found caprylic acid taken orally may be more effective against Candida than fluconazole, a commonly prescribed antifungal medication. Although undecylenic acid is primarily used in the form of a topical antifungal treatment, the unsaturated fatty acid derived from castor oil is also commonly consumed as a dietary supplement for its alleged antifungal and antibacterial properties.

The fungicidal effects of undecylenic acid — especially on the skin — are largely attributed to its organic fatty acid components. Fatty acids prevent the spread of C. albicans and the formation of biofilms, large communities of fungi cells that attach to each other and to surfaces.

Grapefruit seed extract GSE is derived from the seeds and pulp of grapefruit. A natural disinfectant, GSE is often used as a preservative in food and beverages, and as a natural cleaner for homes. It is often used in conjunction with other essential oils, such as tea tree oil, to enhance efficacy.

Studies have suggested grapefruit seed extract may be effective against a variety of yeasts, molds, and bacteria. Berberine, an alkaloid that is commonly found in plants like goldenseal Hydrastis canadensis and barberry Berberis vulgaris , has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine to treat digestive disorders and infections.

In recent years, berberine has received a great deal of attention in the scientific community due to its potent anti-obesity and anti-diabetic activities.

It turns out that berberine has also been shown to have strong antifungal properties. Researchers have found that berberine effectively inhibited the growth of various kinds of pathogens that may lead to candidiasis in the gut.

The herb appears to heal and support the microbiome when gut cells have been damaged by bacteria. A derivative of the amino acid cysteine, N-acetyl cysteine NAC is an antioxidant that is primarily used to treat acetaminophen overdose and liver conditions such as acetaminophen-induced liver damage and chronic viral hepatitis.

More recently, NAC has been studied for its potential to treat and prevent yeast infections, nail fungal infections, and oral thrush.

Dill oil, like caraway, is another culinary herb that has been shown to have antifungal properties. In one study, researchers tested the antifungal activity of dill oil against two standard strains of Candida and a number of clinical strains that were derived from patients with yeast infections.

The researchers found that dill oil was effective against the majority of the clinical strains tested. Albicans , both in vitro and in vivo. Dill oil has been used in Ayurvedic medicine since ancient times. Dill has been reported to possess antibacterial properties, making it a potential source of an eco-friendly antifungal drug.

The essential oil extracted from the seeds of dill Anethum graveolens L. was demonstrated in a study showing its ability to disrupt the permeability barrier of the plasma membrane, which can help eliminate fungus-causing bacteria.

Calendula, also known as pot marigold or garden marigold, is a plant in the daisy family. It is native to the Mediterranean region, but has become naturalized in many other locales. Calendula has been traditionally used to heal wounds and to treat infections, and it is also valued as a medicinal herb for the treatment of gastrointestina l, respiratory, and urogenital disorders.

The essential oil of calendula is used as a natural antifungal agent to treat fungal infections of the skin, mouth, and nails. Boric acid, also known as borax, is a naturally occurring mineral compound that is associated with a range of health benefits.

Although boric acid is most commonly used as an eyewash to treat eye infections, it has been used to treat a variety of other conditions, including vaginal yeast infections, fungal infections of the mouth, and warts.

Boric acid has antibacterial properties, making it a great, affordable home remedy for fungus. Research shows that boric acid suppository capsules appear to be very effective against yeast infections, particularly those caused by Candida. An early study found that boric acid suppositories, when taken nightly for 7 to 10 days, have up to a 92 percent cure rate.

That is a strong number! Source, Source. Milk thistle Silybum marianum is a flowering plant native to southern Europe and the Mediterranean region. Extracts of the seeds and leaves have been used in traditional medicine to treat liver and gallbladder disorders, as well as heart disease and cancer.

Milk thistle is also used to soothe digestive disorders and skin conditions like eczema, boils, psoriasis, and acne. Milk thistle contains a complex of bioactive compounds called flavonolignans, which have been shown to have antifungal activity. In another study, researchers found that silymarin, the active compound in milk thistle, has potent anti- Candida activity.

Echinacea has a long history of use in Native American medicine, where it was used for the treatment of respiratory and skin infections, as well as for snake bites and other wounds.

However, this herb is most well-known for its purported use as a cold and flu remedy. Additionally, it helped ease the symptoms of the fungal infection.

However, the study was conducted on a pilot scale and required more supportive evidence. Fermented foods and probiotics contain good bacteria , which helps improve immunity. So, yoghurt and probiotics can help with the symptoms of fungal infections. The fungal infection mostly affects people who have poor hygiene.

Try to maintain proper self-hygiene. When infected with a fungal infection, try to wash the infected area or the skin with mild soap and water. Soap will not help to kill the fungal infection. However, it can reduce the spread and the intensity of the infection.

While using soap, be cautious. It can also flare up the fungal infection. So, use a mild soap and do not rub it hard. Try to pat dry with a towel and then apply the ointment.

Additionally, they can be beneficial for toenail fungal infections. Add a few drops of apple cider vinegar to warm water. Soak your feet in the warm water for 15 minutes. This can prevent the growth and spread of the fungal infection. Tea tree oil is the oil that is obtained from the leaves of the Australian tea tree.

The oil is obtained through the process of distillation. Tea tree oil naturally contains germ-killing properties. So, they can be beneficial when used for fungal infections. Dilute the tea tree oil with coconut oil.

Dab the cotton in the oil and wipe it around the infected area. This will help to reduce the toenail infection and prevent the spread. You can repeat this twice a week. However, further research is required to support the hypothesis.

Coconut oil contains excellent antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties. They can be effective in treating ringworm infections. According to NCBI, coconut oil is effective against the drug-resistant Candida species. Topical application can help with wound healing and provides excellent moisturising effects.

Before applying coconut oil to the skin, wash the infected area with soap and water. Dab some warm coconut oil on the infected area. Do not rub it hard, and be gentle in the affected area. Make sure you wash your hands after applying coconut oil to the infected area.

There are possibilities for the infection to spread. Regular usage can help reduce the symptoms of itching. However, continue to apply coconut oil, as they contain excellent moisturising properties.

Turmeric adds an important flavour to the Indian kitchen. It contains powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric contains curcumin that helps fight fungal infections. According to NCBI, turmeric is promoted as a dietary supplement for various health conditions like digestive disorders, respiratory infections, allergies , liver diseases, and arthritis.

According to NCBI, the alcoholic extracts of turmeric have a minimum inhibitory concentration of μl against Candida and against C. Albicans, which was μl. Garlic contains a bioactive element called allicin.

This bioactive compound can effectively fight against fungal infections. According to NCBI, garlic extracts provide a good antifungal potential against the species Sporothrix schenckii.

Additionally, the oral intake of garlic extracts had an effect on the release of cytokines, and regular consumption showed an anti-inflammatory effect. Animal studies reported that garlic effectively fights fungal infections.

Crush some garlic cloves with olive oi l and apply them to the infected area. Leave it for some time, and wash it with water and soap. Aloe vera contains natural antiseptic activity. They can effectively kill fungal infections and also inhibit the growth of yeast.

Aloe vera can be applied directly to ringworm infections. It can also help soothe the symptoms like itchiness and inflammation. According to NCBI, honey contains significant antifungal activity against the Candida species. Apply honey to the infected skin and leave for 20 minutes.

Then rinse it with lukewarm water. You can repeat it twice for better results. The oregano oil contains an antifungal agent called thymol. There are many research studies that support the presence of thymol can be a potent antifungal agent and effectively treats infections caused by gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria.

Dab some oregano oil in a cotton ball and apply it gently to the affected area. It can also be applied to the affected toe and fingernails. The treatment can be effective against such infections and provides significant results.

Neem leaves are known for their antifungal properties. They can be significantly good for your skin. Neem water can be effective against fungal infection. Boil a few neem leaves in water and leave it for some time.

Apply the water to the infected area and leave it for some time. Repeat the process for some time till the infection settles. Vitamin C helps regulate the immune system, which can provide protection against various infections. Vitamin C contains ascorbic acid, which contains antibacterial properties.

This will help to treat the infections effectively. There is research that supports vitamin C can effectively treat and prevent the growth of fungal infections.

Baking soda can be effective in treating symptoms of fungal infections like redness and itching, especially caused by the Candida species. Mix some baking soda with water and apply it to the infected area.

However, certain research is required to support the effectiveness of baking soda against fungal infections. Grapefruit seed extract contains antimicrobial and antifungal properties that can prevent the growth of yeast infections. They can also reduce the infection rate.

Topical application of grapefruit seed extract can be beneficial when you have fungal infections. Lemongrass oil can be effective against fungal infection.

Lemongrass oil should not be used directly on the skin.

Anyone who experiences a fungal infection knows just how frustrating it can be. Fungal infections can often cause much discomfort or even embarrassment think stinky feet , even if they rarely threaten your health in a serious way. As such antifungal medications, such as an antifungal cream, are often used to treat and prevent fungal infections, also known as mycosis.

Plus, you can make your own homemade antifungal cream with natural, effective ingredients. Until the s, relatively few antifungal creams and agents were available for the treatment of systemic fungal infections. However, a discovery, though mostly ignored at the time, was made while studying biotin deficiency in animals and microbes.

Around the mids, Hugo Vanden Bossche observed an azole containing antifungal activity that inhibited the uptake of purines in yeast from candida. The development of these antifungals represented a major advance in medical mycology, though its use was associated with toxic side effects.

The continued search for new and less toxic antifungals led to the discovery of the azoles several decades later with the first release in the early s.

However, in the s, new discoveries of both fluconazole and itraconazole displayed a broader spectrum of antifungal activity. Eventually, these agents became subject to a number of clinically important limitations related to their development of resistance, the induction of hazardous drug interactions and their performance as they moved throughout the body and their toxicity.

New developments have made in an effort to do a better job, claiming greater potency against resistant and emerging pathogens. Regardless, it seems that natural remedies may do an even better job in some instances at acting as antifungal agents.

Medically speaking, members of the genus Aspergillus are common fungus found anywhere on Earth. To date, over Aspergillus species have been identified, 20 of which have been reported to cause harmful infections in humans, animals and plants, with Aspergillus flavus the most known because it causes direct infections and diseases in humans.

flavus is second only to A. fumigatus , the leading cause of human invasive aspergillosis. Although invasive aspergillosis is rare in people who have normal immune systems, it actually can contribute to more serious issues in anyone who is immunosuppressed.

Despite the recent introduction of new antifungal drugs and synthetic preservatives, the application of synthetic antifungal agents has led to a notable increase in drug resistance. The most frequently used treatment within antifungal creams contains a chemical compound called azole.

However, studies show that there are common sensitivities and allergic reactions to many azoles and that, more and more, natural remedies and homemade antifungal cream can work better. The American Society for Microbiology concluded that severe hypersensitivity reactions to antifungal drugs can occur and documented a systemic allergic reaction to fluconazole, specifically, causing clinicians to be very cautious in prescribing another azole as an antifungal agent.

Additionally, these azoles can produce risks to anyone who is pregnant. A panel of azole antifungal agents commonly administered to women of childbearing years was tested for the potential to inhibit aromatase, which is the enzyme that synthesizes estrogen.

The oral agents fluconazole and ketoconazole and the topical agents econazole, bifonazole, clotrimazole, miconazole and sulconazole were examined. This examination showed that some azole drugs may disrupt estrogen production in pregnancy, ultimately affecting pregnancy outcome.

Recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis remains a challenge to manage in clinical practice. Epidemiologic studies indicate that non-albicans candida spp. are more resistant to conventional antifungal treatment with azoles and are considered as causative pathogens of vulvovaginal candidiasis.

The good news is that researchers are finding that the antimicrobial properties of plant products and other naturally based solutions have been recognized and used for antifungal cream recipes since ancient times in China.

Among the different groups of plant products, essential oils are especially recommended as one of the most promising groups of natural products for the formulation of safer antifungal cream and agents.

Essential oils are a promising alternative , and there are numerous other natural remedies, many of which can be found in your cupboard. The vagina is home to numerous beneficial microbes, which keep disease-causing microbes, such as candida, in check.

The yeasts grow out of control when something, such as antibiotics or hormones, disrupts that delicate balance. A report found that studies suggest Lactobacillus recolonization of the vagina shows promise as a treatment for yeast infections, and while more studies need to be developed, we know that regular ingestion of beneficial bacteria poses very little harm and is usually very helpful to the body.

Numerous studies have shown that garlic benefits include its antifungal properties. Oregano oil is a powerful plant-based antibiotic. biofilms and provide antifungal activity — along with thyme oil — against fungi attacking store grain. While oregano is a super powerful natural antibiotic, make sure to use caution.

It can cause a burning sensation and should be heavily diluted with a carrier oil. Tea tree oil has been shown to be effective against various candida in numerous studies.

In one such study, tea tree oil was shown to be active in vitro against all tested strains and was highly successful in accelerating the elimination of candida from the experimentally infected rat vagina. Continued studies brought about resolution of the infection regardless of whether the infecting C.

albicans strain was susceptible or resistant to fluconazole. Coconut oil is known for its health-supporting and immune-enhancing properties. In the case of fungus within the body, coconut oil can provide great benefits. Yeast and fungus exist in all mucous membranes of your body, particularly in the intestines, but rarely cause problems unless they become overgrown.

This is when a natural antibiotic, like coconut oil, may be very useful. Because excessive sugar intake, stress or general weakness of the immune system can cause fungal growth, a fungal nail represents just one potential manifestation of this fungal overgrowth and may accompany a systemic fungal infection.

Coconut oil contains medium-chain fatty acids that contain a fungus-killing action. These special fats exhibit potent antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal effects that can kill the fungus, which is why it should be considered for toenail fungus treatment and beyond.

Dill oil has been used in Ayurvedic medicine since ancient times. Dill has been reported to possess antibacterial properties, making it a potential source of an eco-friendly antifungal drug.

The essential oil extracted from the seeds of dill Anethum graveolens L. demonstrated its ability to disrupt the permeability barrier of the plasma membrane, which can help eliminate fungus-causing bacteria. Reducing sugar and refined carbohydrates can greatly curtail infection from fungals.

The reason for this is that yeast feed on sugar, fermenting it to produce alcohol in the form of ethanol and an even more toxic chemical, called acetaldehyde. When you stop a potential sugar addiction and reduce the amount of sugar in your diet, you reduce the amount available to the yeast in your intestines.

Yeast overgrowth, which leads to leaky gut syndrome , can result in immune reactions. Eat grains and high-carbohydrate vegetables in moderation. Focus more on raw or lightly steamed vegetables and lean meats.

Caprylic acid contains antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties. It has the ability to boost the immune system and is commonly used as an ingredient in topical fungicides.

Caprylic acid helps naturally reduce yeast growth within the gastrointestinal tract so beneficial bacteria can thrive.

Taken orally, it is completely natural, helping prevent an imbalance between the presence of various bacteria. Boric acid has antibacterial properties, making it a great, affordable home remedy for fungus.

Check out our entire range of skincare products. Dermatophytes which cause fungal infections have become very resistant to common antifungal drugs these days due to the injudicious use of these drugs , I have observed many patients taking antifungal drugs for a longer period without getting benefits, therefore, one should be visiting his physician whenever they are suffering from fungal infections rather than self-medicating themselves with medicines for a longer period of time which could cause serious side effects.

Of millions of fungi species, only roughly infect humans in any significant way. Here are a few common fungal infections and their causes. Also Read: Mucormycosis: The Deadly Fungal Infection In COVID Patients.

Yoghurt and other probiotics have an ample amount of good bacteria that help stave off many fungal infections. These fight off microbes that cause these infections. Fermented foods are another excellent source of probiotics.

If these are not helping, you could use probiotic supplements that have more concentrated dosages of good bacteria. Read more on the health benefits of yoghurt. Clean the affected area with soap and water twice daily before you apply any home remedies or any other medication. This will control the spread of infection.

While soap and water may not always be able to eliminate a fungal infection entirely, it helps to keep the spread down and lower the intensity of the infection.

Searching for best anti-fungal soap? Check out — Abzorb Antifungal Soap. Apple cider vinegar has antifungal properties. You could mix two tablespoons in warm water and drink it up or dip a cotton ball in it and dab over your skin.

Doing this thrice a day should produce beneficial results. Know more about the health benefits of apple cider vinegar.

Tea tree oil is naturally antifungal and antibacterial. Mix it with any carrier oil like coconut oil or olive oil and dab over the infected area about three to four times a day. This is one of the most effective home remedies to treat fungal infections.

In its unheated form, even coconut oil works as a potent antifungal agent. Applying it over the skin makes it a good, safe topical medicine. Since it is easy on the skin, it is also useful to treat scalp ringworm.

Use over the skin three times a day. Turmeric is a potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory spice. Mix with a little water and apply over the infected area. To get benefits in the internal body environment, mix with warm water, or have turmeric tea.

This is one of the easiest home remedies for fungal infection as turmeric is present in all Indian kitchens across households. One of the most time-tested natural remedies to cure any skin infection is aloe vera.

It not only treats the infection but also soothes and repairs skin damage. Garlic is one of the most potent antifungal and antimicrobial herbs. Those who eat garlic regularly are less susceptible to fungal infections.

Crush a couple of garlic with some olive oil and make a paste. Apply to the infected area for about thirty minutes. Also, read the benefits of garlic for health. Another active antifungal agent is oregano oil. Mix a few drops with any carrier oil and dab on the affected area.

You could also take oregano oil capsules orally. Follow these remedies regularly to achieve the desired results. Check for allergies to essential oils before using them. Neem leaves have effective antifungal properties and are extremely good for the skin.

Washing the infected area with neem water helps in treating fungal infections. To make neem water, boil neem leaves in water for 2 to 3 minutes. Vitamin C Ascorbic acid boosts our immune system.

It protects our body from various infections. A good immune system also helps to treat fungal infections faster.

Baking soda is useful in fungal infections like athlete Foot. Applying baking soda powder on our feet and the inside of our shoes helps to absorb moisture and sweat.

It thus prevents the infection from spreading. Alternatively you can use Dettol Antiseptic Liquid Bottle. Gingerol present in ginger has potent antifungal properties. Adding ginger to our diet in the form of ginger tea effectively helps to prevent and treat fungal infections like Candida.