Herbal Remedies For Parasites & Yeast

Parasitic and fungal infections can cause numerous symptoms and are often difficult to treat. The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Disease states that parasitic infections are a common cause of illness, and even death, in certain parts of the world. Fungal infections, says Medline Plus, are most common in people with weak immune systems. Parasitic and fungal infections may respond to herbal remedies, although herbs should only be used to treat these conditions if you are under the care of a qualified health-care professional.

Parasitic and Fungal Infections

MerckManuals.com states that parasitic infections are commonly spread via fecal contamination of your food or water and are most common in parts of the world where sanitation and hygiene are poor. There are two principle types of parasites: protozoa and helminths, or worms. Fungal infections, says KidsHealth.org, can occur in various parts of your body. Common types of fungal infection include athlete's foot, jock itch and vaginal yeast infections.

Herbs for Parasites

There are numerous herbs that have historically been used in treating parasitic infections. Dr. Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic physician, master herbalist and author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," states that the following herbs may be helpful in combating parasites: black walnut, goldenseal, goldthread, Oregon grape root, pau d'arco and wild indigo. Other herbs that help treat your parasitic infection include gentian root, wormwood and elecampane. Tilgner says that parasites are often challenging to treat and that many treatments for this condition are toxic and should not be used for extended periods.

Herbs for Fungus

Helpful herbs for fungal infections, says expert herbalist Ed Smith, author of "Therapeutic Herb Manual," may include spilanthes, usnea and kava kava. Some of the most common types of fungus include Candida albicans, Tinea corporis and Tinea pedia. Herbs that have historically been used in treating these types of fungus include thyme, lomatium and pau d'arco. Tilgner says that paracress and usnea may be helpful in treating these fungal infections, too.

Warning

Although herbal remedies have long been used in treating parasitic and fungal infections, few herbs have been extensively studied using contemporary scientific research methods. Before using herbal remedies in treating your infections, discuss the long-term health implications of herbs with your family physician. Herbal remedies may cause strong reactions in some individuals and should only be used under the care and guidance of a skilled health-care practitioner.