Candida Infection
A Candida infection, (often referred to as Thrush or Yeast infection) is a yeast organism that is normally present in the body. When conditions are right, Candida organisms take advantage and create an infection. Infections are more prevalent now than in the past in part because of the widespread use of antibiotics.
Symptoms
Candida occurs most frequently in the vagina, mouth, breast and penis. They can also sometimes affect the skin. Common symptoms may include itchiness, redness, burning during urination, a rash on the outer lips of the vagina or the head of the penis, white odorless vaginal discharge that looks a little like cottage cheese, pain during intercourse, a yeasty odor and white streaks in the mouth.
Symptoms of a more severe problem may include bloating, gas, intestinal cramping, chronic diarrhea, constipation, heartburn, chronic fatigue, depression, loss of memory, lack of concentration, muscular pain, itching in the rectum, allergies, impotence, prostatitis, aching joints, irritability, acne, mood swings, recurrent fungal infections like ringworm or athlete's foot and severe premenstrual system. These symptoms could mean the infection is now in your intestines.
Causes
Infections are usually caused by Candida albicans. These infections can be passed back and forth between sexual partners, so if one gets an infection, it may be best to treat both. Tampons can also increase the incidence of infection because they create an environment the yeast finds favorable. Candida albicans are naturally present in the intestines and it is when there is an imbalance, which can be caused by the use of antibiotics, corticosteroids, high sugar, and oral contraceptives.
Cautions
Severe Candida can infect the blood and deeper tissues, causing a life-threatening infection. See your doctor immediately if symptoms worsen. Diabetics may find themselves prone to infections. You should also see your doctor if you have repeated incidences of Candida infections.
Herbal Treatments
Herbal remedies can supplement standardized treatments.
Internal Applications
- Garlic – eat fresh garlic or take it in capsule form to kill yeast infection. Garlic is antiseptic, antibacterial and anti-fungal.
- Oregano – the oil of oregano is thought to clear Candida infections. Take capsules of oregano oil orally and add 8 to 10 drops of the essential oil to your bath for a dual attack.
- Stinging nettle – drink nettle tea to nourish the body and help it gain enough strength to fight off Candida infections.
- Neem – take neem capsules according to the directions on the label to help fight off Candida infections. Neem is very effective against Candida.
- Rosemary – this herb is a strong anti-fungal and can help kill off yeast cells. Rosemary tea can be taken up to three times per day. Pregnant women should avoid ingesting too much rosemary.
- Echinacea – take capsules according to label instructions. This herb is anti-fungal and antibacterial as well as an immune system stimulant.
- Goldenseal – this herb is a powerful antibiotic and will help defeat Candida. Take according to the instructions on the label or from your care provider.
External Applications
- Tea tree oil – Apply a tea tree based cream or gel, as directed by the label.
- Lemon – lemon juice and the rind of lemon is very useful in treating oral Candida infections.
- Aloe vera – use the extract to relieve itching and burning for Candida infections of the vagina, penis and mouth.
- Clove – the oil of clove has shown promise in treating Candida infections.
- Chamomile - infuse 1 sachet of chamomile flowers in 1 cup of boiling water for 5 minutes. Bathe the vagina 1 or 2 times a day.
- Lavender - 2 to 3 grams of dried flowers infused in 1 cup of boiling water for 10 minutes. Strain, cool and bathe the vagina 1 or 2 times a day.
- Calendula - infuse 5 grams dried flowers in 1 liter of boiling water for 5 minutes - strain, cool and bathe the vagina and genital area 1 - 2 times a day.
Aromatherapy
Essential oils that may help include; Tea tree - add a few drops of tea tree oil onto a tampon and insert in the vagina to treat vaginal infection and; Lavender - simply add a few drops to your bath.