Thrush is an infection of the mouth caused by a fungus called Candida albicans. It can lead to white patches (plaques) in the mouth, redness and a bad taste.
A number of home remedies can help treat thrush symptoms. Some of these include eating yogurt a few times a day and taking acidophilus pills.
Tea Tree Oil
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Tea tree oil is a natural disinfectant that fights germs, including yeast. It has antifungal, antiviral and antimicrobial properties that kill fungi, reducing symptoms like candida infection.
The primary chemical components in tea tree oil include terpinen-4-ol and alpha-terpineol, which help to reduce the growth of yeast in the mouth, nose and throat. It also helps to reduce the symptoms of candida, such as sores, redness and itching.
Some women use diluted tea tree oil in a vaginal suppository to treat yeast infections. The oil can also be sprayed on the inside of the vagina or on the outside of a tampon to help relieve pain and discomfort.
Before using tea tree oil, make sure you’re not allergic to it by doing a patch test. Some people get a skin reaction when they first apply it, which can cause a rash. If you have a rash, stop using it immediately and see your doctor.
Coconut Oil
One of the simplest home remedies for thrush is to use coconut oil. It contains a medium-chain fatty acid called caprylic acid, which can kill candida.
This is because the oil can infiltrate the yeast cell and rupture its walls, killing it and reducing its growth. It also possesses antifungal properties that can make it an effective treatment for thrush.
Another beneficial effect of coconut oil is its ability to speed up the elimination process of yeast infections. It also improves skin and hair health, reduces cholesterol levels, and helps keep you hydrated.
If you have oral thrush, try swishing 1 to 2 tablespoons of coconut oil in your mouth. Alternatively, rub a small amount of the oil into the area with your hands. You may also want to rinse your mouth with a saltwater solution.
Turmeric
If you have oral thrush, home remedies may be able to help you heal. One of these is turmeric, a natural antifungal that can impede the growth of yeast.
It contains curcumin, a compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have shown that curcumin may prevent the accumulation of free radicals in your body, which is known to accelerate aging and increase the risk for diseases.
However, it’s important to note that turmeric alone isn’t a cure for thrush. You’ll need to take it in combination with other ingredients, such as ashwagandha, milk thistle or dandelion.
Ideally, you’ll want to take turmeric tablets that are organic and fermented. The process of fermentation helps your body absorb the spice’s nutrients more effectively. It also allows the curcumin to become more bioavailable.
Oregano Oil
Oregano oil has a variety of benefits, including a reduction in cholesterol levels and relief of inflammatory conditions. Moreover, it’s rich in phenols that have antifungal and antibacterial properties.
It also contains carvacrol, a compound that has been shown to reduce the growth of certain bacteria. This could mean that it can be effective against yeast infections, E. coli and staph bacteria.
Additionally, it may help alleviate symptoms of enteric parasites like Blastocystis hominis and Entamoeba hartmanni. In one study, people whose stools tested positive for these parasites found that consuming 600 milligrams of oregano oil daily significantly improved their symptoms.
Oregano essential oil is safe to take orally, but it should be mixed with a carrier oil before use. It’s especially advisable to perform a patch test before using it on the skin. It can irritate the skin if not properly diluted and may interact with certain drugs.
