10 Essential Oils For Candida Overgrowth And Yeast Infections

Candida is a strain of fungus (or form of yeast) that can cause an infection in the skin, among other locations. There are about 21 different types of candida that can cause a fungal infection, however, the most common is C. albicans.

At normal levels, the yeast is not problematic, but when overproduced, candida can penetrate the bloodstream where it will release toxic by-products into the body and cause candida infection (candidiasis) and leaky gut.

Factors that can lead to yeast infections and candida overgrowth include – emotional stress, diabetes, taking oral contraceptives, a weakened immune system, high alcoholic beverages intake, eating a diet high in dairy products, and taking antibiotics.

Common symptoms may include:

  • flu-like symptoms;
  • skin problems, such as – psoriasis, eczema, or acne;
  • canker sores (a shallow sore shaped similar to an ulcer on the inside of the lip or on the tongue);
  • nail or skin fungal infections;
  • unexplained exhaustion;
  • low libido;
  • digestive problems, like – bloating, gas, diarrhea, or constipation;
  • a white coat on the tongue;
  • developing new food intolerances, such as – lactose intolerance;
  • poor concentration;
  • vaginal yeast infections;
  • irritability;
  • mood swings;
  • depression;
  • anxiety;
  • brain fog.

Here are 10 essential oils for candida overgrowth and yeast infections:

#1 Myrrh

It is a resin that comes from trees belonging to the genus Commiphora that grow in the Middle East and Northern Africa. Myrrh essential oil is renowned for being an effective antifungal that can help kill many types of fungi and parasites in the human body, including C. albicans.

Moreover, this essential oil calms the spirit by composing breathing that enhances states of meditation. Also, it is used to promote a restful sleep. Interestingly, this oil contains sesquiterpenoids, plant compounds that have cytotoxic activity against MCF-7 breast cancer cells, according to a 2001 study issued in the Journal of Natural Products.

#2 Coconut

It contains caprylic acid, a fatty acid that is also a natural candida fighter since it can penetrate the cell membranes of yeast and make them die off. In addition, coconut essential oil is active against species of candida at 100 percent concentration, much better than the drug fluconazole.

Furthermore, this oil has been used for millennia to speed the healing of burns, rashes, and open wounds. Plus, it is a probiotic that can help balance healthy gut flora, therefore, improving digestion.

#3 Lemongrass

Using pure citral (the main chemical constituent of lemongrass essential oil) on C. albicans can inhibit both yeast and mycelial-form growth of this species of fungus, according to a study issued in the Japanese Journal of Medical Mycology.

Another 2012 study issued in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology concluded that this essential oil is useful at forcibly penetrating into the thick protective biofilm barrier created by the fungus.

#4 Lavender

It has a calming and soothing effect on the nerves, relieving depression, tension, hysteria, panic, and nervous exhaustion as well as it is beneficial for treating migraines and fungal infections.

Moreover, lavender essential oil promotes a good restful sleep that many people are deprived of in the present day. Additionally, lavender essential oil can help the human body produce three crucial antioxidants which help reduce the damage of free radicals, according to Chinese scientists.

To use this essential oil, just rub a few drops of the oil on the affected area. Repeat once a day until the fungus has been eliminated.

#5 Clove

It contains phenols compounds, such as – thymol and carvacrol, that have potent antifungal properties, as well as antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral qualities.

Clove essential oil can inhibit a few opportunistic fungal pathogens, like – Cryptococcus neoformans, C. albicans, and Aspergillus fumigatus, as per a 2005 study which was issued in the Journal of Drug Targeting.

A 2009 study concluded that using clove essential oil in combination with eugenol essential oil has had considerable anti-fungal effects against many types of fungi, especially those which had become resistant to a variety of medicines, like – fluconazole.

#6 Tea Tree

It is produced from leaves of the native Australian plant – M. alternifolia. According to research, topical use of tea tree essential oil for fungus problems on hair and skin is very effective, particularly in cases of dandruff and toenail fungus as well as athlete’s foot and ringworm.

The active compounds in tea tree essential oil are useful for treating drug-resistant forms of vaginal candidiasis, according to a 2006 study.

#7 Eucalyptus

It is extracted from fresh leaves of the evergreen eucalyptus tree, which has the botanical name of Eucalyptus Globulus. This essential oil is especially useful to naturally treat cystitis, urinary tract infections, bladder infections, and oral thrush (also referred to as oropharyngeal candidiasis).

Moreover, this essential oil is effective for treating respiratory problems, including bronchitis, asthma, pneumonia, COPD, and even tuberculosis.

#8 Oregano

It is derived from the flowers and leaves of oregano (scientific name – Origanum vulgare), a member of the mint family which is native to Europe.
This essential oil has been proven in numerous studies to kill off candidiasis, hence, it works as an antifungal. For instance, a 2001 study conducted at Georgetown University Medical Center established that this essential oil could inhibit the growth of C. albicans.

The study also found that supplementing with oregano essential oil every day was an effective preventative method for yeast infections.

#9 Patchouli

Patchouli essential oil is a highly effective antidepressant that is widely used to help individuals overcome the sense of despair and loss. In addition, some studies have concluded that this essential oil can inhibit the growth of C. albicans.

Furthermore, it can help to tone the stomach, liver, and intestines since it can increase the ability to absorb nutrients and digest food properly. Also, another important characteristic of patchouli essential oil is its potent antimicrobial properties which can stop the spread of microorganisms.

#10 Lemon

Lemon essential oil is highly used in holistic medical practices throughout the world most likely due to its calming, stimulating, anti-infection, carminative, and astringent properties.

It is a very effective natural remedy against candidiasis caused by C. albicans, according to a study issued in the Mycopathologia journal. Moreover, it can help you overcome a cold fast and support lymphatic drainage as well as it can fight depression and lift the mood.

Images credit – Shutterstock

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1 thought on “10 Essential Oils For Candida Overgrowth And Yeast Infections”

  1. I have had a toenail fungus for 7-8 years. I have tried everything there is out there including colloidal silver. I got some patchouli essential oil, put a few drops on a bandaid and wrapped it around my toe with the oil directly on the nail. I have been doing this for approximately one week and the fungus is almost gone! I am super excited!!!

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