Herbs for Fungus

Many different types of fungi can be responsible for ailments and maladies including athlete's foot, ringworm--which is also known as tinea--yeast infections and jock itch. These fungi are typically plantlike organisms that grow and thrive in damp and dark conditions, creating what are commonly referred to as yeast infections or fungus infections. Often they will produce a rash along with itchy skin and sometimes an unpleasant discharge. Herbal remedies can be used to treat and kill fungus that may present itself in or on the body.

Black Walnut

• The hull of black walnut is one of the most used ingredients in herbal formulations that is simultaneously an anti-fungal, anti-parasitic and anti-bacterial. It is also thought to be a natural anti-septic. The key ingredients contained in the hulls and leaves of black walnut are the type of omega-3 fatty acids known as alpha linolenic acid, or ALA, along with sterols, quinone, iodine, tannins and vitamin C in a compound of ascorbic acid. Black walnut tincture can be taken internally or used topically to treat nail and skin fungal infections. Follow dosing instructions carefully.

Barberry

• Barberry contains berberine and has strong anti-fungal qualities while keeping the good microflora present in the body intact. Berberine prevents candida yeast from creating lipase, which is an enzyme that enables the further production of yeast. This makes it a good choice for a fungal cure. Barberry tincture may be taken internally or applied topically to treat fungal infections. Follow dosing instructions carefully.

Calendula

• Calendula is often referred to as the common marigold. Calendula is anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory and an anti-spasmodic and astringent. Calendula is a popular ingredient in many lotions and salves and can be used very successfully in treating fungal infections in a topical manner. It is helpful for treating diaper rash, along with slow-healing wounds to the skin, minor burns and inflammation.

Cloves

• Cloves contain phenols, namely carvacrol and thymol. These two properties are very anti-fungal in nature and have anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties.

  Clove oil can be applied directly to skin infections. Dilute about two drops of clove oil in about 1 teaspoon of a carrier oil such as sweet almond oil before applying it to the skin. Apply to toenail and fingernail fungal infections to clear them up quickly. Clove oil is often an ingredient in oral pain medications, as it helps with healing and relieves pain while adding anti-septic qualities.