Thrush is a condition caused by the overgrowth of yeast in the mouth. It occurs frequently in infants, after antibiotic treatment and in anyone with a compromised immune system. Depending on the severity, thrush may be treated at home with natural and non-medicinal methods. Severe or recurrent thrush may require the use of prescription medications.
Probiotics
To restore the balance of healthy bacteria, which may have been eliminated due to antibiotic treatment, probiotics can be taken. Probiotics are simply healthy bacteria that normally thrive in human bodies. When healthy bacteria are in balance, yeast growth is controlled to a normal level. Examples of probiotics include taking probiotic supplements which are often found in health food stores. Yogurt and kefir are also effective ways to restore the body's natural balance of bacteria. The Mayo Clinic advises individuals who are experiencing a thrush outbreak to eat unsweetened yogurt. Yeast thrives on sugar, so it is necessary to limit sugar intake as much as possible.
Gentian Violet
In an article on the information website Mother and Child Health, Dr. Jack Newman recommends using gentian violet for treatment of oral thrush. Gentian violet is a topical antifungal liquid which is available without a prescription and is found in some pharmacies. This remedy is particularly effective on infants and can also serve as treatment for a breastfeeding mother. Dr. Newman recommends dipping a cotton swab in gentian violet and allowing the newborn to suck on the swab. Parents can also paint the liquid in the baby's mouth. When the baby nurses, the mother's nipples will be treated as well. Gentian violet will make a mess and will stain the baby's mouth and lips blue for several days.
Grapefruit Seed Extract
Grapefruit seed extract is highly recommended by pediatrician Jay Gordon to be used prior to all other treatments. It is effective on bacteria, fungus, viruses and parasites, and is made from the pulp and seeds of grapefruits. Dr. Gordon recommends diluting grapefruit seed extract in distilled water, in a mixture of 10 drops of extract to 1 oz. of water. This solution should be applied to the baby's mouth once an hour while the baby is awake. The baby's mouth should be treated prior to feeding and the nipples should be treated after feeding. The mixture can be increased to 15 drops per ounce or 20 drops per ounce if improvement is not seen in two days.
Antifungal Medications
Two antifungal medications are frequently prescribed for the treatment of thrush: Diflucan and Nystatin. Diflucan is used to treat thrush in adults and older children who can swallow a tablet. According to the Candida Blog, a frequent side effect of Diflucan is nausea. Nystatin is used to treat thrush in infants, and can be painted on the inside of the mouth with a cotton swab. Nystatin must be given up to three times a day where Diflucan is taken once per day.
