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According to an estimate, about a billion people around the world are suffering from some kind of fungal infection like skin, nail, and hair fungal infections and more than 150 million people have serious fungal diseases, which can be fatal as well for them.
It is also being noticed that the incidence of fungal infections is increasing at an alarming rate, presenting an enormous challenge not only for sufferers but also for healthcare professionals.
But the good news is that some simple care and home remedies for fungal infections can help get relief, Which has been discussed in detail in this blog post.
Classification of Fungal Infections
- Aspergillosis
- Candidiasis
- Dermatophytosis (Tinea)
- Tinea capitis (ringworm of the scalp)
- Tinea pedis
- Tinea crusis
- Tinea unguium
- Tinea versicolor
Concept of Fungal Infections in Ayurveda
The skin disorders in Ayurveda have been classified under the broad heading “Kushtha”, which are further classified into mahakushtha and kashudrakushtha.
According to Ayurvedic texts, fungal infections are classified under the aegis of Dadrukushta. The reddish-coloured pidaka (lesion) in the form of mandala (rounded lesion) with elevated borders and itching is defined as Dadru in Ayurveda.
According to Ayurveda Improper food habits, wrong lifestyle, mental stress and tension, unhygienic practices, etc. are some of the reasons for fungal infections.
Approach to Treat Fungal Infections
Before knowing the home remedies for fungal infection, it is very important to understand some precautions to prevent its spread, so that the effect of home remedies can be increased and the risk of repeated infections can also be reduced.
Precautionary Tips for Treating Fungal Infection
- Avoid walking barefoot on beaches, swimming pools, etc.
- Dry all body parts after taking a bath to avoid moisture.
- Stop wearing damp clothes.
- Never share your personal products like towels, clothes, etc. with anyone, and do not take others.
- Wash your hands thoroughly after touching contaminated places and articles.
- Do not scratch or touch the infected area with bare hands.
- Avoid wearing tight clothes.
- Eat a healthy and wholesome diet.
- Drink 8-10 glasses of water daily to detoxify the body.
According to Ayurveda for the prevention of fungal infections, an Alkaline diet which is high in bitter and astringent tastes but low in sweet taste, should be taken. The bowels should also kept clean by including rich fiber meals and gentle laxatives like Triphala in case of constipation.
Home Remedies for Fungal Infections
These home remedies for fungal infections have the potential for great results, especially when combined with the recommended precautions mentioned above. Additionally, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of these herbs may provide relief for other skin issues.
1. Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis)
Aloe vera is one of the most important and time-tested home remedies for fungal infections.
Research has proven that aloe vera has anti-fungal activity along with this this plant is rich in anti-oxidants and anti-bacterial properties. So It not only treats the skin infection but also soothes the infection and repairs skin damage as well.
The pulp of aloe vera inhibits the overgrowth of Candida albicans as it contains compounds capable of combating Candida albicans strain. Candida albicans is a fungus that can be found in the mouth, throat, gut, and vagina. if it overgrows, it can cause a fungal infection called candidiasis.
2. Garlic (Allium sativum)
Garlic also has significant anti-fungal and anti-microbial activity, which can help fight fungi and reduce the risk of fungal infections.
Garlic supports the immune system too, so people who eat garlic regularly are less susceptible to fungal infections.
Application:-
For local application, crush some garlic with olive oil and apply on the affected area for half an hour.
3. Neem Leaves (Azadirachta indica)
Neem leaves are known for their innumerable health benefits because of their several medical properties. Researchers have proven that neem leaves also have antifungal and anti-bacterial activity that can prevent the overgrowth of fungus and can prevent fungal infection.
Neem leaves contain two main medicinal compounds – nimbidol and gedunin. These compounds are extremely effective in killing fungus.
Application:-
For external use, Boiling neem leaves in water and washing the infected area with that water only can reduce the risk of fungal infection.
Dry and crush some neem leaves to make a powder. Add sandalwood powder to the neem powder. Now make a paste with rose water. This mixture is extremely helpful in killing the fungal infection.
4. Plain Yogurt
Unhealthy diets can disrupt this balance of gut microbiome, allowing Candida to overgrow and potentially lead to fungal infections.
A healthy gut with balanced bacteria can fight “bad” gut fungi like Candida. Plain yogurt is full of live bacterial cultures, particularly the Lactobacillus strain. The yogurt’s friendly bacterium helps in regulating the normal bacterial flora in the gut, which can help in fungal infection.
Application:-
You can consume fresh yogurt regularly or you can consume it in the form of buttermilk as well.
5. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a great source of healthy fatty acids and Vitamin E and It is known for its anti-fungal and antimicrobial properties, making it useful in treating scalp ringworms and other fungal infections.
Additionally, coconut oil is extremely nourishing and soothing for dry and sensitive skin.
Research has shown that coconut oil fights Candida albicans fungus, which is a common type of fungal infection. It can also help to manage against other similar fungi.
Application:-
Apply coconut oil over the affected area.
Use coconut oil as a cooking oil to make your food.
Conclusion
As you know fungal infection is a growing problem which affects a large population of the world. Fungal infection can easily managed by using easy-to-use home remedies but these home remedies will work perfectly if one can follow the precautionary guidelines too.
In some cases, fungal infection becomes severe, in this situation patient should consult a doctor. You can consult our fungal infection specialist doctors who will help you fight this problem.
