Fungal infections usually affect the skin, though they can spread to other internal organs. Common examples are athlete’s foot, causing itchiness on the feet and between the toes, jock itch, affecting the skin around the groin, thrush, yeast infections of the mouth and vagina, ringworm, where disc-like shapes appear on the skin, and dandruff. Nails can also be affected. The infection is caused by the multiplication and spread of common fungal organisms (usually Candida albicans or tinea) which commonly cause redness, inflammation and itching. When the nails are affected, they typically turn white and crumbly. Fungal infections are more likely to occur in those whose immunity is low, particularly after taking antibiotics which kill off the natural bacteria which prevent their multiplication. They can also occur when the acid/alkali balance of the body is upset by inappropriate diet, cosmetics, hormonal imbalances or other drugs.

Prevention.

To prevent athlete’s foot, do not share or borrow shoes, socks or towels. Change socks and towels daily. Wear cotton socks and leather shoes.

Treatment - Practical Advice.

Fungal infections thrive in damp moist environments. Wear cotton underwear to allow the skin to ‘breathe’, wash frequently and dry yourself thoroughly. Ringworm: to prevent reinfection, wash all clothes thoroughly after treatment; if scalp is infected replace all brushes, combs and headgear. The infection is sometimes spread through pets: a vet can diagnose and treat infected animals.

Dietary.

Enhance immunity by eating plenty of lightly cooked green, yellow and orange vegetables, wholegrain cereals, lean meat or fish. To discourage the multiplication of Candida albicans, avoid the following foods for at least 1 month: all sugar, including cakes and pastries, raw fresh and dried fruits and alcohol. Also avoid mushrooms, blue cheese, soy sauce and other yeast-containing foods. Incorporate plenty of olive oil into your diet; this helps fight Candida albicans. Live yogurt helps restore healthy bacteria to the gut which is essential in fighting fungal infections. Eat at least one 5 oz carton of plain, live unsweetened yogurt daily. Avoid coffee and tea, instead drink mineral water, rooibos tea and other herbal teas. Take supplements of Lactobacillus acidophilus:1/2-1 teaspoon of high potency acidophilus powder and 1/2 teaspoon of bifidobacteria powder (both available from health food shops) in a glass of spring water 2-3 times daily.

Aromatherapy

Tea tree oil is very effective in combating fungal infections of the skin. Add 5 drops to the bath, or bathe the affected area with a solution made up of 2 drops of peppermint and 4 of German chamomile added to a basin of water to relieve itching and redness. Dermasorb is an effective antifungal cream which contains tea tree oil but no drugs.

Herbal

Garlic is an effective antifungal agent: use liberally in cooking or take 3-6 capsules a day. Caprylic acid, an extract of coconut, is a powerful antifungal agent available from health food shops: take 3 capsules with each meal. For athlete’s foot: soak feet regularly for at least 30 minutes in a strong infusion of golden seal root: add a cup of boiling water to 3 teaspoons of the powdered herb and infuse for 15 minutes. Dry feet well and powder with arrowroot or powdered golden seal root. Calendula cream may be used if cracks have formed.

Biochemic Tissue Salts

Silica, 4 times daily.

Orthodox

Antifungal agents are prescribed in cream, tablet, vaginal pessary, oral solution or impregnated tampon form. Treatment is effective within a matter of days, but fungal infections have a tendency to recur; therefore, it is important to raise immunity with the help of the treatments above to prevent further infection.