Candida albicans is a fungus usually found in the digestive tract and skin. It aids with nutrient absorption and digestion but can cause some health issues when it overproduces. Candida can cause a breakdown of the intestinal lining and enter the bloodstream. The toxins Candida releases into the body systems can cause a variety of ailments, including leaky gut syndrome, thyroid issues, and hypoglycemia.
Overproduction of Candida can be caused by the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics, birth control pills, inhalants containing steroids, cancer treatments, a weakened immune system, or diabetes.
Eating a high-sugar and/or high-acid diet causes Candida to flourish. Maintaining a healthy pH balance in the body and keeping up levels of good bacteria are essential to fighting the overgrowth of Candida.
Candida overgrowth syndrome is a chronic health condition. Individuals with COS may develop new sensitivities, allergies, or intolerances to foods like dairy, eggs, corn, and gluten.
The following symptoms may indicate that that you have a problem with Candida overgrowth:
- Chronic fatigue
- Mood disorders
- Recurring vaginal and urinary tract infections
- Oral thrush
- Sinus infections
- Intestinal distress
- Brain fog
- Skin and nail fungal infections
- Hormonal imbalance
Balancing blood sugar and pH, as well as strengthening the body’s immune system, will bring Candida back to safe levels in the body. Many essential oils have antifungal properties that will aid in cutting down Candida production. Try some of the following:
- Tea tree
- Lavender
- Oregano
- Clove
- Dill
- Peppermint
- Cinnamon bark
- Eucalyptus
- Rosewood
- Spearmint
- Spruce
- Rosemary
- Thyme
These oils may be taken orally, in a hot compress on the abdomen, or in a retention enema. Be sure to research the best way essential oils can help to balance the bacteria and fungi in your body.
See the Reference Guide for Essential Oils to learn more about how essential oils can help Candida imbalance.
Source: Reference Guide for Essential Oils, 2017 Edition, pp. 383–84.