Herbal Treatments for Thrush

Thrush is an infection normally defined as a yeast infection that is confined to the mouth. It often occurs in infants who are nursing, who then transfer the infection to the mother's nipples. In other instances thrush simply refers to a yeast infection that occurs in the vaginal region. Both types of yeast infections are caused by the bacteria known as candida albicans yeast. Both of these infections can be treated effectively with herbal remedies for fast, safe relief.

Tea Tree Oil

• Tea tree oil is an excellent anti-fungal and antibacterial herb. It works well on treating problem yeast infections in the vaginal area. The essential oil is generally used in aromatherapy but can be used to treat yeast infections and other skin maladies. Add a couple of drops of tea tree essential oil to your bath for several nights in a row to treat thrush. If you get yeast infections often, this can also be used as a preventative measure. Do not take tea tree oil internally.

Echinacea

• Echinacea is a super immune booster and can help treat recurring thrush and yeast infections. Echinacea increases the functioning of the immune system, and will help to cut down on the number yeast infections you experience if you are prone to them. Increase the benefit of taking echinacea by taking it with short breaks, i.e., take it for four weeks, then take one week off. Echinacea is widely available at most health-food stores or online. Follow dosing instructions on the bottle. Echinacea is not recommended for infants.

Plantain Seeds

• Plantain seeds can be helpful when treating thrush in infants. Plantain seeds can also be purchased as phsyllium seeds. Soak about 1 cup of the seeds in enough water to cover overnight. This creates a gel-like remedy that you can put directly on the thrush patches in the mouth. Apply it with a cotton swab to your baby's mouth once a day. This treatment should clear up the thrush within three days. You will want to continue to treat the area for several more days to ensure the thrush has been completely cleared.

Oil of Oregano

• Oil of oregano is known for its ability to treat skin infections and can be helpful in treating thrush or yeast infections. The active properties of oregano that help treat thrush are volatile oils such as thymol, carvacrol and p-cymene. These oils have strong anti-fungal properties, making them a good treatment option for infections. Oil of oregano may be taken internally if diluted, and applied externally if diluted. It is effective in killing yeast and bacteria organisms. One drop of oil of oregano may be mixed with 1 tsp. of olive oil for use on your baby's thrush symptoms. Apply with a cotton swab once a day.

Warnings

• Avoid taking any of the herbal remedies above if you are taking any hormone treatment, or other medications, without first consulting your physician. If you continue to experience yeast infections on a recurring basis, speak with your physician about a more conventional treatment program.