| |  | | Herbs for Candida
Answered by: Susan Eagles
Question from : LJ
Do you know of any herb that is used to treat candida (yeast infections)? I’ve tried over the counter creams but would like to know if there are any herbs that do as well.
I assume you have vaginal candida. This is a fungal infection by candida albicans. According to Thomas Bartram, "Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine" (Grace Publishers, Mulberry Court, Stour Road, Christchurch, Dorset, BH23 1PS, England), it can be caused by oral contraceptives, antibiotics, iron deficiency anemia, diabetes, steroid treatment, pregnancy, high sugar diet or alcohol. These can be factors in creating a body environment that is favourable for the candida fungus to grow.
Treatment includes both herbs and diet, aimed at restoring a healthy body environment. The diet should avoid dairy products and meat that may contain steroids; sugars and sweeteners, alcohol & bread that may contain yeast or encourage candida growth. Herbs that are effective anti-fungals are: Calendula and Thuja, which can be taken internally as tinctures; Garlic, which can be added to food (preferably raw or very briefly cooked); Cloves which can be chewed. Distilled Extract of Witch Hazel can be applied externally, and is made more effective by adding 1-2 drops of Eucalyptus oil.
Acidophilus is recommended as a supplement to encourage the growth of friendly bacteria.
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