Can oral mycosis (mycosis of the tongue) be treated with natural remedies?

Oral thrush, also known as oropharyngeal candidiasis or thrush, is a type of yeast infection that develops in the mouth and on the tongue. A small amount of the Candida albicans fungus is normally present in the mouth. Oral thrush occurs when your immune system cannot maintain its natural defense against this fungus, it overgrows and spirals out of control.

The infection leads to small creamy-white lesionshabitually on the tongue or inside the cheeks. If the infection is not not treated quickly, it can spread to the palatethe gumsthe tonsils and at the back of your throat. Other signs and symptoms include redness in the mouth, pain, a cottony feeling, difficulty swallowing and loss of taste. (to see what the tongue reveals about your health)

Anyone can develop oral thrushbut is more common in infants (to see infant thrush), the elderly, those with weak immune systems and those who wear dentures. People with diabetes, a vaginal yeast infection or cancer are also more prone to infection.

Repeated episodes of Oral thrush also indicate immune deficiency. Therefore, the first step will be to rebuild your immune system through a healthy diet. In addition, maintaining good oral hygiene, exercising regularly and promote sleep and proper rest. Additionally, you can use some simple home remedies to control the infection and reduce the symptoms.

1. Salt

Salt is one of the best remedies for treating oral candidiasis. It creates an inhospitable environment for the fungus. In addition, salt helps relieve symptoms quickly.

• Mix 1 teaspoon of salt in 1 cup of warm water.
• Use it to gargle, then spit.
• Repeat several times a day until you are satisfied with the results.

You can also sprinkle some salt on your tongue and the inside of your mouth, then rub gently with your fingers for a few seconds. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. Use this remedy twice a day for a few days.

2. Yogurt

Probiotic yogurt contains live or active cultures of species of lactobacilli that can help treat candidiasis. It also improves digestion. For the treatment of yeast infection, consume only unsweetened yogurt.

• Eat 2-3 cups of yogurt daily for a few weeks.
• You can also rub some yogurt on your tongue and inside your mouth with your (clean) finger. Let sit for 5-10 minutes, then rinse mouth thoroughly with warm water. Do this once or twice a day for a few days.

3. Coconut oil

Coconut oil is a good remedy to fight against oral infection. It helps eliminate yeast and reduce associated discomforts. In a 2007 study published in the Journal of Medicinal Foodthe researchers found that coconut oil could be active against different species of candida.

• Apply extra virgin coconut oil directly to the inner mouth and tongue area using a cotton swab. Do this several times a day for a week.
• Each morning, use the oil pulling method.

4. Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar contains enzymes that can control candida infection. It also restores the pH level of the body which helps fight the overgrowth of yeast causing the infection. Also, it boosts the immune system and gives you strong defense against candida.

According to a 2014 study published in the Journal of Prosthodontics, apple cider vinegar has shown antifungal properties against Candida species.

• Mix 2 teaspoons of raw sugar, organic unfiltered apple cider vinegar
• with ½ teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water.
• Use this solution to rinse your mouth several times a day until you notice an improvement.
• You can also add 2 tablespoons of raw sugar, organic unfiltered apple cider vinegar and a little raw honey to a cup of warm water and drink twice a day.

5. Tea tree oil

Tea tree oil is also very effective in treating oral thrush. Its powerful antifungal properties help control yeast growth and allow for quick recovery.

In a 2004 study published in the Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapyresearchers have found the positive effects of the antifungal qualities of tea tree oil and its components on the candida albicans.

• Add 4 or 5 drops of tea tree oil to 1 cup of warm water.
• Use this solution to gargle for a few minutes.
• Use this remedy twice a day until the infection recedes.

Remark : Remember not to ingest tea tree oil, as it may cause side effects.

6. Baking soda

Baking soda is an effective and inexpensive remedy for oral thrush. It can kill the yeast that is causing the infection. Furthermore, it helps maintain a good pH level in the mouth by neutralizing acids.

• Mix 1 to 2 teaspoons of baking soda with enough water to form a paste.
• Use a cotton ball to apply this paste on the tongue and inner cheek area.
• Wait a few minutes, then rinse your mouth with lukewarm water.
• Follow this remedy 2 or 3 times a day for a few days.

You can also dissolve ½ teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of water and use this solution to rinse your mouth twice a day until the problem disappears.

7. Cinnamon

Cinnamon is another effective home remedy to combat this oral yeast infection. Its powerful antiparasitic and antifungal properties can controlling the growth of candida albicans.

According to a 2012 study published in the Journal of Traditional Chinese Medicinehealing effects and antifungal activities of cinnamon oil have a positive impact against candida albicans.

• Drink 1-2 cups of cinnamon tea daily.
• To make the tea, boil ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon or a small piece of cinnamon stick in 1½ cups of water for 5 minutes.
• Add a little lemon juice according to your taste.

You can also dilute a few drops of cinnamon oil in 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil. Apply this oil on the white patches caused by oral thrush. Leave on for 10 to 15 minutes then rinse (without swallowing). Do this once a day for a few days.

Remark : Pregnant women should avoid cinnamon.

8. Garlic

Garlic is another effective treatment for reduce oral thrush infection. Its antifungal property helps kill yeast in your mouth and give your immune system a boost.

• Squeeze and consume 2 or 3 cloves of raw garlic on a regular basis to fight the infection. You can also take garlic capsules or tablets, after consulting your doctor.
• You can also apply garlic oil to the affected area several times a day.

9. Oil of oregano

Oregano oil is also effective in inhibiting the growth of yeast that causes oral thrush. It also boosts your immune system.

• Mix 2 or 3 drops of oregano oil with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
• Apply to your tongue and inside your mouth.
• Leave on for 10 minutes, then rinse off with lukewarm water.
• Repeat twice daily until you see improvement.

You can also add 3 drops of oregano oil to a glass of water. Drink twice a day for a few days to a week. Another option is to take oregano oil capsules after consulting your doctor.

10. Olive leaf

olive leaves help destroy microorganisms that cause oral thrush, thanks to its powerful antifungal properties. Besides, it contains an active ingredient called oleuropein which boosts your immunity.

• Take olive leaf extract (250 to 500 mg) 3 times a day. Consult your doctor for proper dosage suitable for your condition.
• Drink a few cups of olive leaf tea daily. To make the tea, pour 1-2 teaspoons of olive leaves into a cup of boiling water for 10-15 minutes, then strain.

Oral mycosis some additional prevention tips…

• Practice good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth three times a day and never share your toothbrush.
• Clean your tongue with a soft piece of cotton or a tongue scraper every day.
• Replace your toothbrush often to avoid contagion.
• If you use dentures, remove them before going to bed and soak them overnight in denture cleaner, which you can buy at drugstores or grocery stores. Clean your dentures with a clean toothbrush and water every day.
• If you have diabetes, manage your blood sugar level by checking it regularly. This helps prevent infections.
• Limit your intake of sugary foods to prevent yeast growth.
• If you smoke, stop smoking as it can make symptoms worse.
• Suck on ice cubes or fresh ice to reduce discomfort.
• See your dentist regularly, especially if you have diabetes or wear dentures.