Fungal skin infections are inflammatory skin disorders caused by microscopic fungi. Although anyone can get a fungal skin infection, they are more common in children, according to the "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine." In many cases, natural remedies and lifestyle changes can help heal minor fungal skin infections, but for children with compromised immune systems, the condition can be serious. See your doctor to rule out an underlying disorder before using natural remedies.
Childhood Fungal Infections
Children are more likely to develop candidiasis, or yeast infection, if they live in humid and warm environments. A skin yeast infection can also be the result of taking antibiotics, according to Oregon Health and Science University. Symptoms include rash, oozing patches in skin folds, itching and redness in the genital region and burning. Ringworm, or tinea infection, is a contagious fungal skin infection that can spread from child to child or from pet to child. Poor diet, inadequate hygiene and humidity increase the risk of contracting tinea, which is characterized by round, itchy lesions with raised edges and a rash. Tinea infection may develop in the groin region as jock itch, or in nail beds. Tinea versicolor occurs most often in older children and teens. The fungus affects only the top skin layers, often on the trunk, forming pink, white or brown patches. Tinea versicolor rarely itches, but it may scale.
Diet Remedies
Diet remedies for fungal infections focus on avoiding foods that contain yeast such as breads, pastries and other baked goods, as well as restricting sugary foods such as fruit juices and honey. Instead, offer your child antifungal foods, such as yogurt, garlic and cinnamon, advises the "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine." Some supplements may also be helpful, including vitamins A, B and C, but talk to your doctor before altering your child's diet.
Lifestyle Remedies
Teach your child to follow good personal hygiene practices, which can shorten the duration of a minor fungal skin infection and prevent future infections. Encourage your child to bathe daily and dry off thoroughly before getting dressed. Remove wet or damp clothing and shoes promptly, and use antifungal cleaners to disinfect the shower or tub. Launder clothing, towels and sheets to prevent spreading contagious fungal infections.
Herbal Remedies
Some herbs offer natural antifungal benefits that you may use to treat a child's fungal skin infection. Prepare a gentle antifungal rinse, using chamomile, lavender or peppermint by pouring 1 cup of boiling water of 2 tsp. of dried herb and steeping until the liquid is cool. Strain and saturate a clean cloth with the liquid, and wipe down the affected skin. Alternately, you can add one or two drops of the herb's essential oil to the child's bathwater, suggests the "Gale Encyclopedia."
Considerations
Avoid using essential oils full strength or using essential oil preparations near the child's eyes. Natural remedies cannot replace professional medical advice, so talk to your doctor about your child's symptoms and use natural remedies as part of a doctor-recommended treatment plan.
References
- Oregon Health & Science University: Fungal Infections
- "Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine"; Jacqueline L. Longe; 2005
