Supplements To Treat Candida

Certain dietary supplements may be helpful in treating your Candida infection. According to MedlinePlus, Candida is the scientific name for yeast. Candida is a fungus that can live in or on your body. Women may develop vaginal yeast infections. Common signs and symptoms associated with these yeast infections include itchiness, pain or discomfort and discharge. Before taking dietary supplements to help treat your Candida infection, talk with your doctor about possible side effects, proper dosage and potential drug interactions.

Garlic

Garlic, also known as Allium sativa, is an herbal supplement that may be helpful in treating your Candida infection. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, fresh garlic contains allicin, which is believed to have antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties. Garlic, a member of the lily family, is a perennial plant native to central Asia, although it's now cultivated throughout the world. Garlic has a warm, pungent taste with heating, stimulating and drying tendencies. The cloves of the plant are used for medicinal purposes. Dr. Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic physician and author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," states that garlic is helpful in treating numerous infectious conditions. Tilgner cautions that consumption of herbal supplements containing garlic may cause gastrointestinal disturbance in sensitive individuals.

Paracress

Paracress is a small, erect plant native to the tropics of Brazil, although it's grown in other parts of the world for its ornamental and medicinal value. Tilgner states that paracress, also known as Spilanthes acmella, is an antifungal, antiviral, antiseptic and immune system modulator. Paracress is an herbal supplement specifically used to eradicate Candida albicans. However, it also helps support your immune system, Tilgner notes. Paracress has a pungent and aromatic taste that can tingle your tongue. Practitioners of botanical medicine use the entire plant medicinally to help enhance your immune system's resistance to infection. Paracress may also be used to help treat allergic symptoms, swollen glands, gum disease and all manner of acute bacterial, viral and fungal infections. According to Tilgner, paracress can help protect you from colds and flu.

Pau D'Arco

Pau d'arco, a member of the bignoniaceae family, is a broad-leafed evergreen tree that grows in warm areas throughout Central and South America. Pau d'arco, also known as Tabebuia impetiginosa, has an astringent taste, possesses drying and slightly warming tendencies and can reach a maximum height of 125 feet. The bark of the tree is used to help treat numerous health problems, including Candida infections. According to Ed Smith, an herbalist and author the "Therapeutic Herb Manual," pau d'arco is an anti-fungal, antiviral and anti-tumor that enhances the function of your immune system. Smith states that pau d'arco is especially helpful in treating Candida and other yeast infections. Indigenous populations in Brazil use pau d'arco to help treat fungal skin diseases, psoriasis and eczema. Smith cautions that herbal supplements containing pau d'arco shouldn't be taken if you're using anticoagulants.