Fungal Infection

Definition

Fungal infections usually affect the skin, but they can also affect internal organs as well. Infections are caused by fungal organisms which include conforms, mildew, and yeast.

Symptoms

Symptoms of infection range from moderate to serious. Mild signs and symptoms include staining and swelling of the nail and surrounding areas, damp reddened areas over numerous parts of the body, and a cheesy smelly discharge from the genitals. Severe signs and symptoms can disrupt normal organ functioning and require immediate medical attention.

Trigger

Fungal bacterial infections are more common and serious in individuals who use anti-biotic medication for long periods of time. The use of corticosteroids, immunosuppressant drugs (accustomed to inhibit regular immune functioning), or birth control can also trigger fungal growth. Seek immediate medical attention if you are experiencing a fungal outbreak.

Natural Cures

Aromatherapy: Tea-tree essential oil, patchouli, and geranium used topically can help speed recovery.

Diet: Eat an organic, whole foods diet with an emphasis on raw foods. Reduce your intake of dairy products, and avoid meals high in yeast, such as ale and bread. Avoid all sugars including fruit juices.

Herbs: Anti-fungal herbs are an effective topical ointment treatment. These herbs include myrrh, tea tree, and garlic clove. Tea tree oil may also be applied topically or watered down with calendula oil for application to sensitive skin. Oregano essential oil or capsules containing pau d`arco are other great 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 natural vegetable juice and drink eight glasses per day.

Dietary Supplementation: These supplements might help prevent and cure fungal infections: Acidophilus, Bifidobacteria, bulgaricus, garlic pills, vitamin A, vitamin B, pantothenic acid, vitamin C, vitamin E, and zinc.

Other useful supplements are black currant, evening primrose, fish oils, caprylic acid pills, and grapefruit seed extract.

Topical Remedy: Topically apply one or more of the following: Tea-tree essential oil, arbamide peroxide gel, citrus seed extract, or crushed garlic.

Alternative Professional Care

If your symptoms persist despite following the remedies listed above, seek the assistance of a qualified health professional. These professional therapies have proven to be useful for treating fungal bacterial infections: Detoxification Treatment, Environmental Treatments, Magnetic Area Therapy, Naturopathic Medicine, and traditional Chinese Medicine. (See Glossary for descriptions of these alternative treatments.)