Natural Remedies for Candida: What the Research Says

Natural antifungals are popular with people trying to manage candida, and some have interesting research behind them. Most of that research, though, comes from lab dishes or small studies, not large clinical trials. Here’s an honest look at the most common options, what’s known about each, and how to use them safely.

Probiotics

Probiotics have the strongest human research of the natural options. Certain strains, such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1, L. reuteri RC-14 and the yeast Saccharomyces boulardii, have been studied for vaginal health and for reducing antibiotic-associated gut problems. Results are mixed, and probiotics tend to work best alongside standard treatment. See probiotics for candida and the best probiotic strains.

Caprylic acid and coconut oil

Caprylic acid is a fatty acid found in coconut oil. In lab studies it can damage candida cell membranes, but there’s little clinical evidence in people. It can cause stomach upset. Read more about caprylic acid.

Garlic

Allicin, a compound released when garlic is crushed, has antifungal activity in the lab. Eating garlic as food is a sensible part of a healthy diet. High-dose supplements can thin the blood and interact with medications. Never insert garlic into the vagina.

Oregano oil and other essential oils

Oregano, thyme, clove and tea tree oils show antifungal effects in test tubes. They’re potent and can irritate skin and mucous membranes. Don’t swallow essential oils unless a product is specifically made and labeled for internal use, keep them away from children and pets, and dilute them for skin use. See cloves and essential oils for candida.

Berberine-containing herbs

Goldenseal and Oregon grape contain berberine, which has antifungal activity in lab studies. Berberine interacts with many medicines, can lower blood sugar, and isn’t safe in pregnancy. See goldenseal and Oregon grape.

Diet

A lower-sugar, whole-food diet supports overall health and blood-sugar control, which matters because high blood sugar is a known risk factor for candida infections. See the candida diet meal plan and our list of antifungal foods.

Safety first

• Supplements aren’t FDA-approved to treat infections, and product quality varies. Look for third-party testing.
• Check with your pharmacist about interactions, especially if you take blood thinners, diabetes or blood-pressure medicines, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Start one product at a time so you can tell what’s causing any reaction.
• Don’t use natural remedies in place of medical treatment for a confirmed infection, thrush that makes swallowing painful, or any infection if you have a weakened immune system.

Also see home remedies for candida and do candida cleanse pills work?

This article is general education, not medical advice. Talk to your doctor or another qualified clinician before changing your diet, starting supplements, or if your symptoms are severe, new, or not improving.