Fungi are all around us. In fact, they are part of our microbiome – the trillions of microscopic flora and fauna that enable us to exist, doing many things for us that we are unable to do for ourselves. In small quantities, fungus is harmless, and in some cases may even be beneficial. It is when the microbiome gets out of balance and fungus begins to rule that there are problems, leading to an outbreak of fungal infections.
Those Pesky Fungal Infections
Fungal infections can affect the skin, the genitals, and various internal organs, depending on the type of fungus. One of the most common is candida albicans, which can cause infections in the mouth, genitals, and under fingernails and toenails. Tinea is a different kind of infection that causes itching, peeling skin, and bleeding on the feet and hands. On the rest of the body, it presents as ringworm – which is not a worm at all!
So what causes fungal outbreaks? Are they just a random event?
Look After Your Resident Bugs
The answer lies in the health of the microbiome. When it is in balance, the good microorganisms keep the potentially troublesome ones (such as fungi) under control. Immune dysfunction comes about when the microbiome balance is altered – through foods that are unfriendly, stress, alcohol, harmful chemicals, smoking, and the use of antibiotics. These things are deadly to the good bugs in your body, and the result is often that the harmful ones flourish instead.
So what can you do about that toenail fungus?
On The Outside
1. Tea tree oil.
This powerful antifungal substance can be used on the affected area several times a day. A little goes a long way, so you don’t need much. (Avoid using tea tree oil if you are pregnant).
2. Wild Oregano Oil
This is another very potent antifungal agent. You can use equal parts wild oregano and olive oils, and dab it on the affected area. Be sure to get the wild oregano oil, as standard oregano oil is different and you won’t get the results. Also be sure to buy pure oil with no alcohol or additives.
3. Plain Yoghurt.
The probiotics in yoghurt will help to bring the fungus under control. In the case of nail infections, you can apply the yoghurt as a paste, cover with a sock or glove, and leave for thirty minutes. Then rinse and pat dry – do this two or three times a day until the infection clears. In the case of vaginal infections, use a tampon dipped in yoghurt, and leave in for two hours.
4. Apple Cider Vinegar
You can dilute apple cider vinegar by using equal amounts of vinegar and water, then apply directly to the affected area. Leave it on for thirty minutes, or soak the affected area for thirty minutes, then pat dry. Do this several times a day until the infection is gone.
5. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil has excellent antifungal properties and is so mild that it can be used all over the body without harm, even internally. Rub the oil onto the affected area several times a day until the infection is gone. In the case of a vaginal infection, soak a tampon in the oil, and leave in for two hours. Rinse the area with warm water afterwards.
On The Inside
1. Raw Foods
Get that microbiome in great shape by including lots of raw foods in your diet. A healthy microbiome means that fungal infections will be kept under control, and the good bugs love raw foods, especially those full of “fermentable fibre”, such as carrots, celery, green beans and leafy greens.Sometimes known as prebiotics, these foods create the right environment for the “good bugs” to grow and multiply.
2. Garlic
Garlic is a useful antifungal food, inside and outside. Include some with your meals to strengthen your immunity from the inside out, and to help keep fungal infections under control.
3. Probiotics
Include a good quality probiotic supplement in your antifungal arsenal. The best time to take it is with food, or half an hour before eating, so it does its job as your food is digesting. Taking it after a meal renders it less effective.
4. Wild Oregano Oil
This potent oil is useful internally as well as externally. Add 3 – 5 drops to a glass of water and drink. It’s quite strong, so you might prefer to add it to juice. Seek professional advice before giving to children, and avoid this method of use with a child. Stop taking once the infection has cleared.
5. Olive Leaf
Take two spoons of the tincture a day, or make a tea out of the dried leaves, and drink two cups daily. This will strengthen your immune system and give all those good bugs a boost in their fight against fungal infections.
6. Fermented Foods
Fermented foods such as yoghurt, miso, fermented vegetables (kim – chi), sauerkraut, pickles and kefir are invaluable in keeping your microbiome in top shape so they can keep fungal infections under control. Include them regularly in your diet, and your body will thank you.