A Candid Discussion on Candida

Candidiasis, the clinical term for Candida infection, can be difficult to both diagnose and treat. Its most common symptoms are fungal infections of the mouth (thrush), nail beds, or recurrent vaginal infections; other possible symptoms are chronic fatigue, bloating, sugar craving, and brain fog. All these can mimic other health conditions.

Fluconazole, the “go-to” antifungal drug of the last 50 years, works by stopping the growth of fungal species such as Candida albicans. It is no longer considered a front-line antifungal, however, as drug-resistant non-albicans species, including Candida glabrata and Candida auris, have emerged. The more recent group of pharmaceutical antifungals are called echinocandins. These drugs interfere with the enzyme responsible for fungal cell-wall integrity. Unfortunately, they exhibit poor oral bioavailability, are costly, and depend upon intravenous administration. This renders them impractical and reliant upon a hospital setting for use.

Candida albicans and other Candida species are normal inhabitants of the microbiome of healthy persons. Overgrowth and subsequent infections can emerge when these opportunistic microorganisms grow exponentially following antibiotic use, excessive dietary sugar consumption, chronic stress, or excessive alcohol intake. Even oral contraceptives can create an environment that is more conducive to Candida overgrowth!

However, there is good news. Many natural botanicals exhibit antifungal activity strong enough to help restore the dominance of beneficial bacteria in your body. Caprylic acids, which are plentiful in coconut and palm oils and to a lesser extent in cow’s milk, exhibit excellent anticandidal (antifungal) activity within the intestinal tract. They work by dissolving yeast-cell membranes, leading to their demise.

Garlic anyone? Research published in the Journal of Applied Microbiology demonstrates negative effects on both the morphology of Candida cell walls and on their growth when exposed to garlic. Black walnut hull, in powdered form or extracts, has high concentrations of juglone, a potent organic compound responsible for most of its antifungal action. It inhibits enzymes within yeast that drive metabolic function; this, in turn, stunts yeast growth and function. Good luck finding mushrooms growing under a walnut tree!

Carvacrol-rich oregano and grapefruit seed extract (GSE) rank among the most popular antifungal products for the eradication of bacterial and fungus-related infections. They’re available on their own or in Candida-specific formulas.

The inner bark of the pau d’arco tree, native to South America, contains a powerful phenolic compound called lapachol within its matrix of biologically active constituents. It chokes fungal overgrowth by interfering with the respiratory system of yeast cells, particularly Candida species.

The goal is not to eliminate Candida species, nor would it even be possible; rather, it is to keep their population and other resident pathogenic species in check. This helps create a healthy acidic environment that favors the dominance of healthy probiotics. Following a Candida recovery diet, low in processed sugars and complex carbohydrates, and taking a multi-strain enteric-coated probiotic after a Candida protocol will accelerate the road to recovery.

Employing a broad range of antifungal agents, whether in a formula such as New Roots Herbal’s Candia Stop, or employing specific antifungals “à la carte,” will keep Candida overgrowth at bay.

About the Author: New Roots Herbal

New Roots Herbal is a leading manufacturer and distributor of high-quality natural health products. Their goal is to provide quality of life enhancing products to everyone. Their focus lies in quality, consistency, effectiveness, and a devotion to ethical standards. All raw materials that enter their facility are tested three times over, and these tests are conducted at their state-of-the-art 3400 sq. ft. laboratory staffed with 22 scientists.