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DESCRIPTION
CANDIDIASIS
Candida Albicans, a single-celled fungus, is always present in the genital and intestinal tracts. If it is present in disproportionate quantities, however, it can cause infection. Diaper rash, vaginitis, and thrush are some of the possible manifestations of candida infection.
VAGINAL CANDIDIASIS
Infection or inflammation of the vagina caused by a parasitic yeast-like fungus (usually Candida Albicans). It is the second most common vaginitis in the U.S. (bacterial vaginitis is the most common). Because candida is part of the body's normal flora, almost every woman has a yeast infection at some time in her life. Normally this fungus inhabits the intestines, genital tract, mouth, esophagus, and throat and lives in healthy balance with other bacteria and yeasts in the body; however, certain conditions can cause it to multiply, weakening the immune system and causing an infection known as candidiasis. The fungus can travel through the bloodstream to many parts of the body.
Yeast infections are common during pregnancy, when the acidity and sugar content of vaginal secretions are altered. Oral contraceptives, which have a similar effect in the body, also can lead to the development of yeast infections. Intrauterine devices (IUDs) can create a more favorable environment for fungal growth by decreasing normal vaginal secretions. Because fungi such as C. albicans thrive in the presence of sugar, women with diabetes are more susceptible to yeast infections. The use of antibiotics often lead to yeast infections because antibiotics not only kill infectious bacteria, but also destroy the "good" bacteria in the body that normally keep the growth of organisms such as candida in check. Yeast infections can also be sexually transmitted. This may be why some women suffer from chronic and/or recurrent yeast infections. Some women are especially vulnerable to yeast infections following their menstrual periods, due to changes in the vaginal environment from menstrual flow and cyclic hormonal changes. Other factors that can contribute to vaginal yeast infections include allergies, nutritional deficiencies, improper hygiene, and the consumption of refined carbohydrates.
FREQUENT SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
Because candidiasis can affect various parts of the body - the most common being the mouth, ears, nose, toenails, fingernails, gastrointestinal tract, and vagina - it can be characterized by many symptoms. Severity of the following symptoms varies among women (as well as men, children, and babies) and from time to time in the same woman.
This signs and symptoms include:
- Constipation, diarrhea, colitis, abdominal pain, persistent heart burn.
- Extreme fatigue.
- Kidney & bladder infections.
- Hypothyroidism, adrenal problems, diabetes, PMS.
- Headaches.
- Night sweats.
- Bad breath, canker sores, sore throat, congestion, clogged sinuses, burning tongue, white spots on the tongue and in the mouth, nagging cough, acne.
- Severe itching of skin or other infected tissues.
- Rectal itching.
- Impotence, prostatitis (males).
- Memory loss, mood swings, depression, hyperactivity.
- Joint pain, muscle pain, arthritis, numbness in the face or extremities, tingling sensations.
- Swollen, red, tender, itching vaginal lips (labia) and surrounding tissue (vaginitis).
- White, "curd-like" vaginal discharge (resembles lumps of cottage cheese). The odor may be unpleasant, but not foul.
- Burning pain with urination.
- Change in vaginal color from pink to red.
- Pain during sexual intercourse (dyspareunia).
- Symptoms worsen in damp and/or moldy places, and after consumption of foods containing sugar and/or yeast.
- Because of its many and varied symptoms, this disorder is often misdiagnosed.
TYPES OF CANDIDIASIS
Vaginitis: When candida infects the vagina, it results in vaginitis characterized by a large amount of white, cheesy discharge and intense itching and burning.
Thrush: When the fungus infects the oral cavity (the mouth), it is called thrush. White sores may form on the tongue, gums, and inside the cheeks. In a baby, the white spots of oral thrush can spread to the mother's nipples by breastfeeding, and can lead to a situation in which mother and infant continually reinfect each other. Thrush may also infect a baby's buttocks, appearing as a diaper rash.
Athlete's Foot or Jock Itch: Candida infection may also take the form of athlete's foot or jock itch.
Systemic Candidiasis: This is an overgrowth of candida everywhere, throughout the body.
Candida Septicemia: A severe case of candida in which it travels through the bloodstream to invade every organ system of the body, causing a type of blood poisoning called candida septicemia. This condition almost always occurs in persons with serious underlying illnesses, such as advanced cancer or AIDS.
CAUSES
The fungus Candida lives in small numbers in a healthy vagina, rectum and mouth. When the vagina's hormone and pH balance is disturbed, the organisms multiply and cause infections. The vaginitis tends to appear before menstrual periods and improves as soon as the period begins.
Candidiasis may affect both men and women; however, it is rarely transmitted sexually. It is most common in babies (an infected mother may pass the fungal infection to her newborn) and in persons with compromised immune systems, and as it proliferates the fungus releases toxins that weaken the immune system further. Virtually all people with AIDS have some type of fungal infection. Anyone who has been on long-term antibiotic therapy, or has taken antibiotics often, probably has an over-growth of candida somewhere in his or her body. Antibiotics weaken the immune system and also destroy the "friendly" bacteria that normally keep candida under control. As it proliferates, the fungus releases toxins that weaken the immune system further. Other factors that increase the chances of contracting a yeast infection include pregnancy and the use of corticosteroid drugs.
Very often, allergies to foods are present in people with candida infections. Oral thrush, athlete's foot, ringworm, jock itch, fingernail or toenail fungus, and even diaper rash can develop as a result of the combination of food allergies and C. albicans. The symptoms of a food allergy or environmental sensitivity can also mimic those of candidiasis. To further complicate matters, some people with candidiasis go on to develop environmental sensitivities as well. Many cannot tolerate contact with rubber, petroleum products, tobacco, exhaust fumes, and chemical odors.
CANDIDA INFECTIONS, IMMUNE FUNCTION & SUGAR
Yeast, including candida, feed on sugar. If the body's pH balance is upset for any reason, the friendly bacteria (such as lactobacilli) that normally metabolize sugars cannot thrive and do their job properly, and there is a risk of Candida albicans flourishing in this sugar-rich environment.
Some women find they suffer more yeast infections when using oral contraceptives or during pregnancy. This is most probably due to an increase in the amount of sugar (glycogen) in the vagina induced by changing hormone levels. Antibiotics, which kill beneficial bacteria along with the harmful ones, are another common cause of yeast infections.
Anything that depresses immune function, including HIV and AIDS, also often leads to these types of infections. In fact, it is said that infections such as candidiasis rarely occur in people with robust immune systems who eat a healthy diet that is low in sugar and yeast. The debate continues as to whether candidiasis exists in the body as the result, or the cause, of some immunologic diseases.
RISK INCREASES WITH
Pregnancy.
Diabetes mellitus.
Infrequent bathing or unsanitary living conditions.
Antibiotic treatment.
Oral contraceptives .
Hot weather and/or non-ventilating clothing, which increase moisture, warmth and darkness, fostering fungal growth.
Candidiasis may be related to hypoglycemia.
Immunosuppression from drugs or disease.
PREVENTIVE MEASURES
Keep the genital area clean. Use plain, unscented soap.
Take showers rather than baths.
Wear cotton underpants or pantyhose with cotton crotch.
Do not sit around in wet clothing, especially a wet bathing suit.
Avoid douches, vaginal deodorants, bubble baths and colored or perfumed toilet paper.
Limit your intake of sweets and alcohol. Avoid yeast containing products, such as breads and Brewer's yeast supplements.
After urination or bowel movements, cleanse by wiping or washing from front to back (vagina to anus).
Lose weight if obese.
If you have diabetes, adhere strictly to your treatment program.
Avoid use of antibiotics unless prescribed by your midwife or health care provider.
EXPECTED OUTCOME
Usually curable 1 to 2 weeks of treatment (sometimes less).
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
Secondary bacterial infections of the vagina and other pelvic organs.
In some cases, the vaginitis becomes chronic.
HOLISTIC RECOMMENDATIONS
HERBS
Aloe Vera juice has been shown to boost the white blood cells' ability to kill yeast cells.
Herbal Remedies: Aloe Vera Skin Gel, Herbal Aloe Force, Organically Grown Unprocessed Whole Raw Aloe Vera, 4 fl. oz.
Herbal Remedies: Whole Leaf Aloe Vera Juice, 99.7% Pure, Certified Organic, Nature's Way, 1 Liter
Herbal Remedies: Aloe Vera Juice, Herbal Aloe Force, Organically Grown, Unprocessed Whole Raw Aloe Vera, 33.8 fl. oz.
Herbal Remedies: Aloe Vera Juice, Certified Organic, NOW Foods, 32 oz.
Herbal Remedies: Aloe Vera Juice, Pure Aloe Force, Organically Grown, Unprocessed Whole Raw Aloe Vera, 33.8 fl. oz.
Herbal Remedies: Aloe Vanilla Mineral Sunscreen SPF 18, Alba Botanica, 4 fl. oz.
Herbal Remedies: Aloe Vera Gel & Juice, 99.7% Pure, Certified Organic, Nature's Way, 1 Liter
Kolorex is a patented herbal formula from Forest Herbs Research containing extracts of the New Zealand Horopito (Pseudowintera Colorata) and Aniseed. Horopito contains a strong antifungal agent called polygodial. Kolorex has been shown in laboratory experiements to be effective in controlling Candida Albicans.
Olive Leaf extract with oleuropein is a powerful healer of microbial infections.
Herbal Remedies: Olive Leaf Herb, Nature's Way, 470 mg, 100 Caps
Pau D'Arco (also known as Lapacho or Taheebo) contains an antibacterial and antifungal agent, although it does have an alkaloid base and a small percentage of people may not benefit from its use. If you do not benefit from this tea, try Clove tea instead. It is a good idea to alternate between the two, because Clove tea has some benefits that Pau D'Arco does not have and vice versa. To make Pau D'Arco tea, boil 1 quart of distilled or pure spring water with 2 tablespoons of herb for 5 minutes. Cool and store it in the refrigerator with the tea leaves in. Strain before drinking, if needed. Drink 3 to 6 cups daily.
Herbal Remedies: Pau D'Arco, Incan Purple Lapacho, 48 Tea Bags
Herbal Remedies: Pau D'Arco Extract, Incan Lapacho, 100% Natural Herbal, 4 fl. oz.
Herbal Remedies: Clove Powder (Caryophyllus Aromaticus), 4 oz.
Herbal Remedies: Clove Oil, 100% Pure Essential Oil, NOW Foods, 1 fl. oz.
Herbal Remedies: Cloves, 500 mg, 100 Caps
Some people who no longer respond to Pau D'Arco can benefit from Maitake tea. It is a good alternative. While Pau D'Arco must be boiled, Maitake is prepared as regular tea. Resistant strains of candida develop rapidly due to genetic mutation. Rotating treatment programs is beneficial.
Herbal Remedies: Maitake Mushroom Whole, Certified Organic, 4 oz. Dry Weight
Herbal Remedies: Maitake Mushroom Powder, 100% Organic, 4 oz.
Herbal Remedies: Maitake Mushroom / Grifola Frondosa Supplements & Products
Wild Oregano Oil is a potent antiseptic, powerful in killing a range of fungi.
Herbal Remedies: Wild Oregano Oil, California Natural, 1 oz.
Herbal Remedies: Wild Oregano Oil, California Natural, 510 mg, 90 Caps
Herbal Remedies: Herbal FungX Toenail Fungus Treatment, 0.5 fl. oz.
YEAST/ CANDIDA / THRUSH SUPPLEMENTAL PRODUCTS
Information on yeast infection and candidasis, conditions caused by an increase in the yeast-like fungus that normally lives in healthy balance in the body.
African Ginger, 100 mg, 60 Tabs
African Ginger is used for tension headaches, flu, sinusitis and premenstrual cramps.Black Seed Theramune Ultimate with Garlic, 100 Caps
Promotes healthy circulation, useful for arthritis and cardiovascular & respiratory support. It also supports digestion and is a natural remedy for ulcers. Garlic is known to lower cholesterol naturally.Candida Clear with Pau D'Arco, Oregano Oil, Black Walnut & Caprylic Acid, NOW Foods, 90 VCaps
Candida Clear is a combination of herbal ingredients (Pau D'Arco, Black Walnut and Oregano Oil), Biotin (a B-complex vitamin) and Caprylic Acid (a naturally occurring fatty acid derived from plant oils). These synergistic ingredients help to support a healthy balance of intestinal bacteria.Candida Yeast, Nelsons Bach Homeopathic, 84 Chewable Pills
Candida Yeast Nelsons Bach Homeopathic is for the temporary relief of symptoms of yeast infection or cystitis including white or yellowish vaginal discharge, itching and burning of genitalia not relieved by scratching, period arrives early.Colloidal Silver & Zinc Lozenges, SilvaSolution, 90 Lozenges
Now you can get powerful liquid silver in the most convenient form ever with new SilvaSolution Silver and Zinc Lozenges.Defense Plus, NutriBiotic, w/ Grapefruit Seed Extract, Maximum Strength, Immune System Support, 250 mg, 90 Tabs
Defense Plus with Grapefruit Seed Extract is the most powerful natural product available for enhancing the body's defense system and providing nutritional support for people with certain health concerns.FemRelief Feminine Homeopathic Relief Bath Powder Packets, (2 packets per box)
FemRelief is an all natural combination formula developed by a gynecologist to provide fast and effective symptomatic relief from feminine itching, burning, irritation, redness, soreness, discomfort and dryness.Garlicin HC, Healthy Circulation Formula w/Odor-Free Garlic, Nature's Way, 90 Enteric-Coated Tabs
HC supports circulation by lowering serum cholesterol and helps maintaining circulatory efficiency. Hawthorn improves blood and nutrient flow to the heart muscle. And, Vitamin E has been shown to help prevent the oxidation of cholesterol.Grapefruit Seed Extract (GSE) Liquid Concentrate, 1 gallon
Grapefruit Seed Extract may be used topically as an antiseptic wound cleaner and to treat infections of the skin. Internally, the concentrate is useful as a supportive treatment for a wide variety of ailments, including Candida infections, sore throats, intestinal upset, etc. May also be used to purify drinking water when camping or traveling to foreign countries.Grapefruit Seed Extract Liquid Concentrate, 2 fl. oz.
Used Grapefruit Seed Extract topically as an antiseptic wound cleaner and to treat infections of the skin. Internally, the concentrate is useful as a supportive treatment for a wide variety of ailments, including Candida infections, sore throats, intestinal upset, etc.Grapefruit Seed Extract, 125 mg, 100 Tabs
Grapefruit Seed Extract is used internally as a supportive treatment for a wide variety of ailments, including Candida infections, sore throats, intestinal upset, etc.Grapefruit Seed Extract Plus, 125 mg, 90 Caps
NutriBiotic Grapefruit Seed Extract Plus Capsules contain 125 mg of grapefruit seed extract, equivalent to 12-15 drops of NutriBiotic GSE liquid concentrate, combined with the extracts of echinacea and artemisia annua.Grapefruit Seed Extract & Grapefruit Products
Grapefruit Seed Extract is a safe herbal solution for many forms of infection. Grapefruit Seed Extract, in its different forms, is used for different applications.Kombucha Miracle Fungus, Kombucha Tea Benefit's, By Harald Tietze, Paperback
One time best seller, Kombucha Miracle Fungus is all about synergy and Kombucha Tea Benefit's it is an easy read for those interested in the synergy Kombucha offers or Kombucha benefit's.Lactobacillus Acidophilus Supplement, Non Dairy, 100 Caps
Lactobacillus Acidophilus Supplement taken as a dietary supplement may help to detoxify and to rebuild a balanced intestinal flora.Nature's Antiseptics Tea Tree Oil & Grapefruit Seed Extract, By CJ Puotinen, Paperback
Nature's Warfare, this book covers tea tree oil and grapefruit see extract use in safely destroying viruses, bacteria, molds, yeasts and parasites that want to live in us and on us.NutriBiotic Skin Ointment, w/ Grapefruit Seed Extract & Lysine, 0.5 oz.
NutriBiotic Skin Ointment with GSE can be used topically for such things as scrapes, scratches and cuts. NutriBiotic Skin Ointment with GSE can also be used on the lips and in the mouth on cold sores and canker sores.Olive Leaf Plus, Black Seed with Olive Leaf Extract & High Potency Garlic, 100 Caps
Combined, these herbs are a superior circulation and immune system support.Oregano Essential Oil (Origanum vulgare) with 50% Olive Oil, Organic, 2 fl. oz.
Oregano essential Oil is used internally for joint pain, aching muscles, chronic cough, infections, asthma and bronchial congestion.Pau D'Arco Tea (Purple Lapacho), 25 Tea Bags
Pau D'Arco Tea is a delicious, all-natural way to reduce Inflammation and Pain and to boost immunity.Primadophilus Bifidus, 71 mg, 180 VCaps
Primadophilus Bifidus is designed to deliver helpful Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium bacteria to the gut. These microorganism strains are essential to maintaining healthy intestinal flora.Sambucol Elderberry & Vitamin C, 30 Lozenges
Sambucol Lozenges contain the original formulation of the award winning black elderberry extract. Sambucol Black Elderberry extract has been used by millions of people with positive results being reported worldwide.Sambucol Immune System Formula, 30 Lozenges
Sambucol Immune System Formula Lozenges support your natural defenses, and are especially popular during the winter season. Sambucol black elderberry extract has been used by millions of people with positive results being reported worldwide.Silver Biotics Liquid, Silver Supplement, 8 fl. oz.
Silver Biotics was tested by researchers and was found to kill every strain of bacteria that it was tested against and that these bacteria, many of which have become resistant to antibiotics, cause many human ailments.Tea Tree Oil Antiseptic Solution (15% Water Soluble), 2 fl. oz.
Tea Tree Oil Antiseptic Solution can be used for mixing with water for douching, athletes foot, facial problems and bathing.Tea Tree Oil (Melaleuca alternifolia), 100% Pure Oil, 2 fl. oz.
Tea Tree Oil can be used for general first aid uses such as cuts, burns, abrasions, insect bites, bee stings, rashes, impetigo, boils, sinus problems, sore throat, thrush, fingernail and toenail infections.Usnea Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
Usnea is an antibiotic, antibacterial, antifungal, astringent, antiviral, and diuretic.Vitamin B-50 Complex w/B-2 Coenzyme, 100% Natural, 330 mg, 100 Caps
B Vitamins are precursors of coenzymes involved in the conversion of cellular energy, manufacture of hormones and proteins, and repair and maintenance of nerve structures. They also function as lipotropics which converts fats to other useful products.Warburgia (Pepperbark, Isibhaha, Peperbasboom), 100% Natural, Herbal Antimicrobial, 100 mg, 60 Tabs
Warburgia is excellent for helping treat bacterial infections such as chest infections.Yeast & Fungus Infection Formula Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
Yeast & Fungus Infection Formula is used to help fight yeast infections and athlete's foot.Yeast Cleanse, Candistroy & Probiotic Rebuilder, 2 Part Program, Includes 2 Free CD's, 2 Bottles, 30 Tabs Each
Candistroy Yeast Cleanse is a comprehensive, all-natural system that helps the body rid itself of fungus and replenishes good bacteria.Zinc Lozenges w/Echinacea & Vitamin C, Nature's Way, 23 mg, 60 Lozenges
Nature's Way Zinc lozenge boosts cold season defense with zinc, widely recognized as an important nutritional support during the cold season, and echinacea pupurea, clinically shown to support the immune system, and Vitamin C, a vitally important vitamin for general health maintenance.
Herbal Remedies: Candida / Yeast Infection / Thrush Products & Supplements
Herbal Remedies: Candida / Yeast Infection / Thrush Information
CANDIDA TREATMENTS & THERAPIES
MoonDragon's ObGyn Information: Candida Medical Treatment
OTHER HELPFUL RELATED LINKS
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HELPFUL PRODUCTS & FURTHER EDUCATION
Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
-- by Phyllis A. Balch, James F. Balch - 2nd Edition
Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
-- by Phyllis A. Balch, James F. Balch - 4th Edition
Prescription for Herbal Healing: The A-To-Z Reference To Common Disorders
-- by Phyllis A. Balch
The Complete Guide to Natural Healing
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