Fungal infections might develop in or on various parts of your body. Some of the most common locations in which fungal infections arise include your feet, toes, skin, scalp, groin, upper thighs and vagina. Athlete's foot, jock itch, ringworm and Candida infections are among the most common types of fungal infections. Herbal remedies might be a helpful adjunct therapy in treating severe fungal infections. Ask your general practitioner if herbs are right for you.
Fungal Infections
Fungal infections are a growing threat to human health, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. The overuse of anti-fungal medications might lead to drug-resistant fungi, which might cause an increased incidence of fungal infections, especially in hospitals throughout the U.S. Fungal infections are notoriously difficult to cure, although both topical and oral medicines might help. A combination of complementary alternative and conventional allopathic treatments might be required to treat your severe fungal infection.
Anti-Fungal Herbs
Herbs have been used for centuries to help combat fungal infections. Some herbs are considered to be anti-fungal agents, or substances that help eliminate your fungal infections. According to Dr. Sharol Tilgner, a naturopathic physician and author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," some of the most potent anti-fungal herbs include usnea, black walnut, burdock, garlic and goldenseal. More scientific research evidence using randomized controlled trials might be helpful in verifying these herbs' purported health benefits.
Herb in Focus
Numerous herbs might possess anti-fungal properties, although usnea lichen, spilanthes flowering herb, oregano leaf and flower, and pau d'arco inner bark are among the most potent herbal remedies in treating fungal infections, notes expert herbalist Ed Smith, author of "Therapeutic Herb Manual." These remedies might be used in treating fungal infections in various parts of your body, including your mouth, stomach, intestines, anus, vagina, nose, ear and skin. Some herbs used for this health purpose might not be backed by extensive scientific research.
Additional Information
If you develop a fungal infection, especially a severe fungal infection, discuss relevant treatment strategies with your general practitioner. Your doctor can provide you with valuable treatment advice, including information about the safest and most effective treatments to help heal your health problem. Fungal infections can be extremely difficult to cure, and using herbal remedies alone might not be enough to cure your infection. Always exercise caution when taking herbs to help treat your ailments.
References
- KidsHealth.org: Fungal Infections
- National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases: Fungal Infections
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner; 1999
- "Therapeutic Herb Manual"; Ed Smith; 2007
