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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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