Yeast infections, also referred to as candidiasis, are caused by an overgrowth of a type fungus called candida. They are often caused by prolonged antibiotic use, diabetes, an impaired immune system, (as may occur in those with HIV), and unprotected sex with an infected partner. A number of anti-fungal home remedies can be used to treat yeast infections in men.
Oil of Oregano
According to Steven Foster, a medicinal plant specialist, oil of oregano is an effective herbal treatment for yeast. Citing a study by Harry Preuss, M.D., of the Georgetown University Medical Center, he reports that the results showed that oregano oil is effective as an antifungal treatment of both systemic and skin infections. You can take it by placing five or six drops of oregano oil onto a teaspoon of sugar, and taking this two to three times a day.
Acidophilus
The Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine recommends treating candida infections with acidophilus, (Lactobacillus acidophilus), a beneficial microorganism that inhabits the gastrointestinal tract. The book cites studies showing that topical and oral use of acidophilus is effective in treating and preventing candida infections. It is available in powder, tablet, capsule or liquid form. Take a dosage containing at least one billion organisms, divided into three doses each day.
Raw Garlic
Noting that garlic is regarded as Mother Nature's antifungal, authors Rita Elkins, M.H., and Louise Tenney write that garlic is considered to be an even more potent treatment for candida infections than anti-fungal drugs such as Nyastin. Eat one raw garlic clove once or twice a day. Tori Hudson, N.D., professor at the National College of Naturopathic Medicine in Portland, Oregon, suggests taking two capsules of garlic a day, each one containing 4,000 milligrams of allicin-alliin. Allicin-alliin is an antifungal compound derived from garlic.
Chamomile Tea
In their book "Candida Albicans: A Nutritional Approach" authors Rita Elkins, M.H., and Louise Tenney recommend drinking chamomile tea to kill candida organisms. They note that this herb also contains large amounts of calcium and magnesium, which also are beneficial in treating yeast infections. According to the Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine, the standard dose for chamomile tea is three cups per day. You can brew this herbal tea by steeping one teaspoon of dried chamomile blossoms in one cup of boiling hot water for three to five minutes.
Coconut Oil
Dr. Bruce Fife, a naturopathic physician, writes that coconut oil contains two potent yeast-fighting compounds called lauric acid and caprylic acid, which are effective in fighting yeast infections. He recommends taking 3 1/2 tablespoons of organic extra virgin coconut oil a day. Alternatively, you can fry or bake with this oil.
References
- Better Nutrition Magazine: "The Fighting Power of Oregano;" Steven Foster; March, 2002
- "The Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine;" Jacqueline L. Longe; 2004
- Nature's Medicines: Yeast Infections
- "Candida Albicans: A Nutritional Approach;" Rita Elkins, M.H., Louise Tenney; 1997 <Page 16-17>
- The yeast Connection: Yeast Fighting Program
