The human body can be affected by different types of fungus, such as candida---or yeast, at it is popularly known---which is responsible for both vaginal yeast infections and athlete's foot. Antifungal therapy for various fungus types usually involves an antifungal diet program, antifungal medications and probiotic supplementation. Several types of medications are available to treat fungus, including natural drugs.
Nystatin
Nystatin is one of the first antifungal medications ever developed and is perhaps the most frequently used for the treatment of intestinal yeast overgrowth. According to The Environmental Illness Resource, nystatin is very safe to use because your intestinal tract does not absorb much of it. Some mild side effects may occur and will typically affect the digestive system. In some cases, you may develop skin rash brought about by an allergic reaction. Nystatin can come in the form of a tablet, liquid oral suspension or powder. Typical dosage ranges from one tablet to 1/8 tsp. of nystatin powder four times a day or up to eight tablets or a teaspoon of powder four times a day. According to The Environmental Illness Resource, one major advantage of this medication is that it costs less than most types of antifungal medications. Because it is cheap and effective, nystatin is usually the first choice of medication for doctors and patients.
Diflucan (fluconazole)
Diflucan, a type of systemic antifungal drug, is absorbed by the intestinal tract. Compared to nystatin, diflucan is a more modern drug. It was first used during the 1980s in Europe and was licensed in the U.S. almost a decade later. The Environmental Illness Resource states that diflucan may be an effective antifungal drug, especially where nystatin has failed. It is considered to be very safe despite its systemic action. Its dosage ranges from 100 to 600 mg a day with treatment periods ranging from a few weeks to several months or, for some, indefinitely.
Berberine and Garlic
Berberine is a type of alkaloid that is found in an herb called barberry (Berberis vulgaris). It is related to other herbs and plants, such as Oregon grape root, Chinese goldthread and goldenseal. Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine have employed berberine for centuries to treat fungus. The Resource states that the herb promotes antifungal activity and is very effective in eliminating certain kinds of bacteria. It also spares the good bacteria, such as the lactobacilli species, which are needed in the digestive and intestinal tracts, and has antidiarrheal properties.
Garlic features sulfur-containing compounds that have powerful antifungal properties. According to The Environmental Illness Resource, garlic may be as effective as nystatin at treating Candida albicans.
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