Yeast infections usually are caused by Candida species of fungi. The most common species to infect both genders is Candida albicans, which has both fungal and yeast forms. Its yeast form prefers warm, dark and moist areas of your body, such as the mucous membranes of your gastrointestinal system and genitalia. Yeast infections are most common in women, particularly within the vagina. Dandelion extract displays some medicinal properties and might help fight yeast infections, but you should consult your doctor before supplementing with any herbal remedy.
Yeast Infection Causes
According to the book "Fungal Infection: Diagnosis and Management," the most common causes of yeast infections are compromised immunity and disruption of the beneficial flora and fauna within your body. Flora and fauna refers to the friendly microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi, that grow in your stomach, intestines and vagina and provide some sort of benefit. Benefits include regulating pH and acidity levels, metabolizing nutrients, producing vitamins and controlling the populations of potentially pathogenic microorganisms. Disruption of your flora and fauna can occur with overuse of antibiotics, poor dietary habits, some contraception methods, extreme stress and weakened immunity. Severely weakened immunity, very common in AIDS and cancer patients, frequently leads to Candida overgrowth within the mouth, intestines and vagina.
Yeast Infection Symptoms
Yeast infections proliferate on mucous membranes and look cheese-like. The yeast causes inflammation, redness, itchiness and produces a foul, moldy odor, as explained by Michael Murray in his book "Chronic Candidiasis." Vaginal yeast infections should be distinguished from other common vaginal infections caused by bacteria or parasites, which tend to smell fishy and cause fewer physical symptoms. Yeast infections are treated successfully with antifungal medications, although there is a risk of side effects and recurrent infection. Many herbs, such as dandelion, display some properties that help to naturally treat infections.
Properties of Dandelions
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, dandelion roots and leaves display antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and immune-stimulating properties, although they are used mainly as an appetite stimulant, digestive aid and for liver and gallbladder function. The book "Natural Standard Herb & Supplement Reference: Evidence-based Clinical Reviews" adds that research suggests that dandelion root might improve the health and function of beneficial bacteria in your gastrointestinal tract while deterring pathogenic microorganisms. It seems that dandelion products are a popular herbal remedy but not necessarily for yeast infections. More common herbs used to combat yeast infections include garlic, olive leaf extract, coconut oil and oil of oregano.
Recommendations
Consuming dandelion root extract orally might help to stimulate your immune system and allow your body to naturally balance your flora and fauna, but human research supporting this theory is lacking. Considering dandelion's properties, it might be more effective to apply the extract directly onto the infection, be it oral or vaginal. For vaginal yeast infections, dandelion extract can be added to a douche for cleansing and might help to reduce inflammation and itchiness and promote better balance of the flora and fauna, but dandelion is not considered an antifungal, according to the guide "PDR for Herbal Supplements." Consult with your doctor about treatment options for yeast infections.
References
- "Fungal Infection: Diagnosis and Management, 3rd Edition"; Richardson and Warnock; 2003
- "Chronic Candidiasis: Your Natural Guide to Healing with Diet, Vitamins, Minerals, Herbs, Exercise, and Other Natural Methods"; Michael T. Murray; 1997
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Dandelion
- "Natural Standard Herb & Supplement Reference: Evidence-based Clinical Reviews"; Catherine E. Ulbricht et al; 2005
- "PDR for Herbal Supplements: 2nd Edition"; PDR Medical Staff; 2008
