Natural Candida Cleanse

Candida albicans is a diploid fungus that lives naturally in the colon. At times, this yeast-like fungus can overpopulate the large intestines, causing symptoms such as joint and muscle pain, vaginal yeast infections, headaches and even autoimmune diseases such as chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia. An overuse of antibiotics, corticosteroids and stress can be culprits. Fortunately, natural cleanses can cure this condition. It is best to use a combination of these treatments.

Cleansing Foods

• Vegetables and fruits can be used to cleanse excess candida from the colon and digestive tract. Both foods contain digestive enzymes that kill fungus or yeast. Vegetables and fruits also have antioxidants that create phagocytosis among white blood cells. This enables white blood cells to purify the blood and rid the body of unhealthy and diseased red blood cells. These foods also alkalize the body and create a hostile environment for systemic yeast, parasites and other foreign microorganisms. Raw vegetables and fresh fruits are best for treating candida overgrowth. You can also juice or blend these foods. Your body can better absorb the nutrients if you drink the juices from vegetables and fruits. Common vegetables and fruits used in juicing include cucumbers, carrots, celery, radishes, kale, pineapples, bananas, grapefruit and melons.

Herbs, Spices and Teas

• A number of herbs and teas cleanse candida naturally. Paul d'Arco tea is an herbal tea that can kill yeast and strengthen your immunity. Buy it as a bark and boil it or use it in capsule form. Garlic is a powerful yeast killer. Garlic also works as an anti-inflammatory and heals the walls of the colon as the excess candida dies off. Try eating several cloves of garlic a day as a natural candida cleanse. You can also drink virgin coconut oil, which can eliminate systemic yeast and boost your immunity. Other cleansing herbs, spices and teas include senna, ginger, cayenne pepper, tree tea oil and aloe leaves. Start with one or two of these treatments.

Probiotics

• Probiotics are "friendly" bacteria that can replenish your body's natural bacteria, many of which erode with candida overgrowth. These bacteria can also cleanse the body of excess fungus. They can also help increase your immunity. You can purchase probiotics at any health food store. The new pearl-shaped capsules are particularly effective as they can survive the acids in the stomach. This allows them to more readily enter the small and large intestines. Yogurt is one food that contains these natural cultures or flora. Try eating several yogurts a day as part of your natural candida cleanse. Buttermilk is another food that contains probiotics.