Candidiasis

Infection of the skin or mucous membrane with any species of Candida, but chiefly Candida albicans. Usually localized in skin, nails, mouth, vagina, bronchi, or lungs, but may invade the bloodstream. A type of yeast-like fungus that inhabits the intestine, genital tract, mouth and throat.

Symptoms

Normally, the fungus lives in healthy balance with the other bacteria and yeasts in the body, but certain conditions can cause this fungus to multiply, weakening the immune system and causing an infection called Candidiasis. When the infection is in the mouth it is called Thrush; white sores on the tongue, gums, and inside the cheeks.

When the fungus infects the vagina it is called Vaginitis, producing a white cheesy discharge and intense itching. Since candidiasis can infect various parts of the body, (most commonly ears, nose, gastro-intestinal tract, and bowels) it can be characterized by many symptoms. These symptoms include: constipation, diarrhea, colitis, abdominal pain, canker sores, persistent heartburn, muscle and joint pain, sore throat, congestion, nagging cough, numb hands, legs, or face, tingling sensations, acne, vaginitis, kidney and bladder infections, arthritis, depression, hyperactivity, hypothyroidism followed by adrenal problems, and even diabetes. Many cannot tolerate the smell of rubber, petroleum products, tobacco, exhaust fumes, and chemical odors.

An infected mother may pass the infection known as thrush to a newborn. The baby's tongue will appear red and covered with white spots that resemble milk spots. Also may appear as a rash on baby's buttocks. Women diagnosed with yeast infection should also be checked for diabetes.

Treatment

Nutrients

Acidophilus, 3 capsules or 1 tbsp. liquid 3 times a day, is important when taking antibiotics. Garlic capsules, 2 capsules 3 times daily, is a natural antibiotic and immune system stimulant. Should be accompanied by Doctor's advice. Vitamin C, 3,000 - 10,000 mg. daily (divide into 4 doses per day), helps immune function and is an antiviral agent. Zinc, 100 mg. daily, helps healing and the immune function. Kelp, 6 tablets per day, supplies balanced vitamins and minerals. Vitamin B complex, 50 mg. daily, is necessary in all cellular enzyme system function. Germanium, 100 mg daily, speeds healing and reduces pain or discomfort. Multivitamin and mineral complex, as directed on the label, promotes immune function.

Herbs

Bistort root
Bearberry
Blazing-star, rough
Burdock, great
Cleavers
Compass-plant
Cubeb berries
Echinacea
Gale, sweet
Gentian root
Golden seal
Gumweed (rosinweed)
Horsetail, field
Lily, wild pond
Maple, striped
Myrrh gum
Ninebark
Pau d'arco
Quinine, wild
Rattlesnake-master
Red root
Sarsaparilla
Skullcap
Strawberry, common or Virginia
Suma
Yellow dock
Willow, black

Recommendations

Do not use corticosteroids or oral contraceptives until the condition improves. Avoid cheeses, alcohol, chocolate, dried fruits, fermented foods, all grains containing gluten (wheat, oats, rye, and barley), ham honey, nut butters, pickles, raw mushrooms, soy sauce, sprouts, sugars of all forms, vinegar, and all yeast products. Eliminate citrus and acid fruits (oranges, grapefruit, lemons, tomatoes, pineapple, and limes) from the diet for a month, then add back a few twice weekly. These fruits are alkaline-forming and Candida thrives on them.

The diet should be fruit free, sugar free, and yeast free. Eat vegetables, yogurt and meat instead. Take only hypoallergenic foods. Avoid chemical household products and cleaners, chlorinated water, moth balls, synthetic textiles, and damp and moldy places such as basements. Fiber in the diet is important. Oat bran is more easily digestible than wheat bran.

Cautions

This disease is highly contagious. The Journal of the American Medical Association suggests that you protect yourself with condoms. Condoms should be used, but they are no guarantee of protection against venereal diseases! Check with your doctor!