Fungal infections occur when one or more fungi species invade your tissues. According to the Lab Tests Online website, there are more than 50,000 species of fungi, although fewer than 200 might cause illness in humans, and only 20 to 25 species frequently cause infection. Fungi can be either opportunistic or pathogenic. Garlic may be a helpful herbal supplement in treating your fungal infection, but you should always clear the use of supplements with your doctor.
Fungal Infections
Many fungi species reproduce in the air; the spores can land on your skin or you might inhale them. Medline Plus notes that fungal infections usually manifest in your lungs or on your skin. People with weakened immune systems -- people with HIV/AIDS, or those undergoing chemotherapy -- may be particularly likely to develop fungal infections. These infections might cause inflammation and tissue destruction or trigger allergic reactions. Fungi thrive in warm and moist parts of your body, including skin folds as well as feet covered by socks and bound by closed-toe footwear.
About Garlic
Garlic is a perennial plant native to Central Asia. Related to onion, chive and leek plants, garlic plants grow to a maximum height of about 2 feet and possess a compound bulb comprised of four to 20 cloves, depending on the type of garlic. Two principle active ingredients in garlic are a sulfur-containing substance called alliin and allicin, the active constituent that gives garlic is powerful odor.
Herb Uses
Historically, people have used garlic to help neutralize fungi and resolve fungal infections, notes Phyllis A. Balch, a certified nutritional consultant and author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Balch recommends taking two garlic capsules with meals three times per day for this purpose. For years, people have used garlic for its anti-fungal, antibacterial and anti-parasitic health actions. It might be particularly helpful in treating Candida fungal infections. All of this, however, needs more supporting evidence in the form of scientific research.
Additional Information
Fungal infections are often difficult to treat and may recur. Though herbal supplements such as garlic have long been in use to treat fungal infections, some people might need conventional treatment measures, such as prescription drugs. Always treat herbal supplements with the same caution as prescription medication. These powerful natural substances may cause unwanted effects in your body if not used properly.
References
- Lab Tests Online: Fungal Infections
- MedlinePlus: Fungal Infections
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 2010
