A fungus that feeds on living tissue is a pathogenic fungi. Those with diabetic conditions may be especially vulnerable to fungus infections because their immune systems are compromised. A yeast-like fungus, Candida albicans, can make fungus infections like jock itch, athlete's foot and ringworm, according to the Mayo Clinic. Warm, moist areas of the body, especially where folds of skin are, seem most susceptible to fungus infections that may appear as a red rash with scaling and itching. Since prescribed medication and creams often take awhile to work, home remedies are often used. The remedy you use depends on where you find the infection.
Step 1
Help prevent fungus infections by keeping your immune system healthy with a diet of a good mix of unprocessed foods, such as those recommended by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Pyramid. Avoid tight-fitting clothing or shoes that may irritate your skin while setting up the dark, moist conditions for fungi to grow.
Step 2
For exterior yeast infections--like ring worm or jock itch--do not further irritate the skin and spread the fungus growth with hard scrubbing or itching to open the skin to more infection. Wash the area with warm water and gentle soap. Pat dry without rubbing. Keep the area dry, wear loose fitting clothing to avoid further irritation and dampness through sweating. A daily foot soak for a few minutes with 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar to 1 gallon of warm water patted dry can then be used for either athlete's foot or nail fungus infections.
Step 3
Interior yeast infections like vaginal yeast infection cannot be dried, so insert some probiotic sugar-free yeast instead. The Lactobacillus acidophilus in probiotic yogurt has beneficial bacteria normally found in the vagina. Mayo Clinic staff say vaginal suppositories containing L. acidophilus have been shown to be helpful. Kits are available at your local health food store.
Things You'll Need
- Soap and water
- Apple cider vinegar
- Probiotic, sugar-free yogurt
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