Fungal Infection
Fungal
infection is a disease that usually affects the skin,
but can also affect other organs. It is caused by fungal
organisms including molds, mildew, and yeast.
Symptoms
of fungal infection range from mild to severe. Mild
symptoms include discoloration and swelling of the nail
and surrounding areas; moist, reddened patches over
various parts of the body; and a cheesy and smelly discharge
from the vagina. Severe symptoms can disrupt normal
organ functioning and require immediate medical attention.
What To Consider
Fungal
infections are more common and/or severe in people who
use antibiotic medication for extended periods, or who
use corticosteroids, immunosuppressant drugs (used to
inhibit normal immune functioning), or contraceptives,
as well as in people with conditions such as obesity,
AIDS, and diabetes mellitus. People in the last category
must seek proper medical treatment for their condition
while simultaneously addressing the fungal infection
itself.
Self-Care Tips
Diet
Eat
an organic, whole foods diet with emphasis on raw foods.
Minimize your intake of dairy products, and avoid foods
high in yeast, such as beer and breads, as well as sugar
of all kinds (including honey and fruit juices).
Nutritional Supplementation
The following supplements can help prevent and reverse
fungal infections: acidophilus, Bifidobacteria,
and L. bulgaricus; garlic capsules; vitamin vitamin
A; B complex; pantothenic acid; vitamin C; vitamin E
;and zinc.
Other
useful supplements are essential fatty acids (black
currant, evening primrose, and salmon oils), caprylic
acid capsules, and grapefruit seed extract.
Aromatherapy
Tea tree oil, patchouli, and/or geranium applied topically
can help speed healing.
Herbs
Anti-fungal herbs are an effective topical treatment.
Among them are myrrh, tea tree, and garlic. Tea tree
oil can also be applied directly or diluted with calendula
oil for application to sensitive skin. Oregano oil or
capsules and products containing pau d'arco are other
good anti-fungal herbs.
Homeopathy
Calendula, Chamomilla, Belladonna, Merc sol., and
Sulfur are effective homeopathic remedies for
treating fungal infections.
Juice
Therapy
Add garlic to fresh, organic vegetable juice and drink
8-16 ounces per day.
Topical
Treatment
To the affected area, apply some of the following:
tea tree oil or gel, citrus seed extract, honey and
crushed garlic, pau d'arco tea by wetting tea bag for
ten minutes and then leave the bag itself on the area
or use gauze or cotton soaked in tea if area is too
large.
Caution
If your symptoms persist despite the above measures,
seek the help of a qualified health professional.
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