Fungal Infections: Effective Natural Solutions

Fungal infections are infections caused by microscopic fungi, which grow on the body and within the body. There are two main types of fungal infections: superficial fungal infections and deep fungal infections. The formulas given below relate only to superficial fungal infections.

Superficial fungal infections (cutaneous or cutaneous-mucosal) manifest as infections of the skin, skin folds or the spaces between the fingers (intertrigo), the scalp (ringworm), the nails (onychomycosis), the mouth or the vagina. Examples include:

• Candidiasis (infections caused by the yeast Candida albicans): oral thrush, vaginitis...

• Dermatophytoses (dermatophyte infections): ringworm, athlete’s foot, tinea, onychomycosis, etc.

• Pityriasis versicolor , mainly affecting the skin of the chest and back, forming small, rounded, brownish patches on fair skin, and depigmented patches on darker skin. It is caused by the yeast Malassezia furfur.

These superficial fungal infections, particularly those affecting the nails and feet, are common and not serious. However, treatment can be lengthy and strict hygiene must be observed.

Conversely, deep fungal infections are the most serious forms, affecting organs such as the lungs or the brain. Certain fungi (Candida albicans, Cryptococcus neoformans, etc.) are normally present on the skin or within the body without causing harm. They only cause deep fungal infections in people with weakened immune systems (transplant recipients, people with AIDS, patients undergoing chemotherapy, or those taking immunosuppressants or corticosteroids).

Fungal infections of the feet are common infections caused by fungi, often referred to as athlete’s foot or interdigital mycosis, and can also affect the nails, leading to onychomycosis. Athlete’s foot is characterised by redness, itching and cracks between the toes, whilst onychomycosis is characterised by thickening, lifting and discolouration of the nail. These conditions can be uncomfortable and difficult to treat without appropriate care.

Thanks to their powerful antifungal properties, essential oils are excellent allies in combating fungal infections, soothing them and preventing them from recurring. Certain essential oils are particularly well-suited to combating fungal organisms, when used topically:

Palmarosa essential oil

A powerful purifier, palmarosa essential oil is renowned for its skin-cleansing properties. It is a broad-spectrum antibacterial and a potent antifungal.

Not to be used by pregnant and/or breastfeeding women, or by children under 6 years of age. Avoid contact with the eyes and mucous membranes. Internal use is restricted to therapists only due to the risk of drug interactions. Always dilute before applying to the skin.

Noble laurel essential oil

This essential oil is a remarkable antifungal agent (scientific studies demonstrate its effectiveness, particularly against Candida albicans).

Precautions and contraindications

Not recommended during pregnancy or for children under 6 years of age. Rare cases of allergies to bay laurel have been reported.

Tea Tree Essential Oil

It is renowned for its powerful antifungal properties, making it an effective natural remedy for fungal infections. Thanks to its active compounds, notably terpineol and terpinene-4-ol, tea tree oil helps combat the fungi responsible for skin infections, including athlete’s foot. It can be applied topically, diluted in a vegetable oil, to the affected areas to promote healing and relieve symptoms. Its antifungal action helps to eliminate the fungi responsible for the infection whilst soothing irritated skin.

When used regularly and appropriately, tea tree essential oil can help reduce the symptoms of athlete’s foot, such as itching, redness and cracks, whilst promoting healing and skin health.

Precautions and contraindications

Although tea tree essential oil is generally considered safe when used correctly, it is always recommended to dilute it in a carrier oil before applying it to the skin, especially for those with sensitive skin. Tea tree essential oil must not be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women or children under the age of 6. It is not recommended for those with kidney failure. Avoid contact with the eyes and mucous membranes. It is advisable to carry out a patch test beforehand to check for any allergic reactions. In the event of irritation or discomfort, it is recommended that you stop using the product and consult a healthcare professional.