Herbal Remedies & Treatments For The Causes Of Thrush

Thrush, a condition caused by the candida fungus, is characterized by infection of the lining of the throat, mouth and tongue, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. This condition causes white sores, or lesions, on the surface of the mucous membranes of your throat and mouth. It is commonly associated with immune system suppression and diabetes. Certain herbs may help prevent the spread of the candida fungus, helping to reduce the symptoms of thrush. Talk to your doctor before taking herbs to combat thrush.

Garlic

Garlic has been used as a natural immune system enhancer since the time of the ancient Egyptians, according to Michael Castleman, author of "The New Healing Herbs." Allicin, the chemical compound found in fresh garlic cloves, has antiviral properties that may help your body destroy the candida fungus, reducing the severity of lesions. The University of Maryland Medical Center also states garlic contains anti-fungal properties that may help you avoid yeast infections. However, there is no scientific evidence to support the role of garlic in thrush prevention. Check with your doctor if you plan to use garlic to treat thrush. Allicin is an anti-clotting agent, so avoid garlic if you take prescription blood thinners.

Pau D'Arco

Pau d'arco is an tree native to Central and South America. Natives of these regions used the bark of this tree as a medicinal remedy for arthritis, influenza and infection. This herb contains two naphthoquinone chemicals, called beta-lapachone and lapachol, that may have antibacterial and anti-fungal properties, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.These chemicals may help destroy fungi, virus cells and bacteria. However, pau d'arco has been tested only in lab settings, and there is no current evidence to suggest this herb may have the same effect in humans. Talk to your physician before treating thrush with pau d'arco. Although side effects are uncommon, this herb may cause nausea, vertigo and diarrhea. Also, the dosages that humans may require to benefit from pau d'arco may be toxic.

Clove

Clove is primarily known as a pungent spice used in Chinese and Indian cooking. However, the dried flowers of the clove tree may also offer medicinal benefits. This herb contains a chemical compound called eugenol, which has anti-fungal properties, according to Castleman. Eugenol may help prevent the spread of the candida fungus, easing the symptoms of thrush. However, there is currently no scientific evidence to support the use of clove as a thrush treatment. Contact your doctor before using clove to treat thrush. In rare cases, clove may cause diarrhea and stomach pains.

Other Herbs

Other foods and herbs may help prevent yeast infections, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. These include whole grain breads, which provide B vitamins; unsalted nuts, which contain essential fatty acids, and sage, oregano and cinnamon, which may offer anti-fungal benefits. However, evidence does not currently support the use of these foods and herbs as part of a yeast infection prevention regimen.