Your skin is the most visible indicator of your health.
For this reason, I find that many of my patients put skin ailments at the top of their list of concerns. Not only are skin rashes often uncomfortable and annoying, but they can also vastly affect your appearance and your self-image.
A large percentage of skin conditions and rashes are fungal in nature. Psoriasis, eczema, rosacea, dandruff, and acne, just to name a few, are conditions commonly influenced by fungal challenges.
Here are a few indicators that your skin condition may be fungal:
- Flakey, scaling, or peeling skin (either white or reddish)
- White patches over the area
- Rashes in the folds of the body such as the armpit, groin, under the breast, etc.
- If the rash is an area that is commonly wet or moist
The medical treatments for rashes are both over-the-counter and prescription creams (such as Lotrimin). These creams can be very effective; however, often there is a resurgence of symptoms once they are discontinued. This is why people often look for natural remedies for fungal skin conditions.
Here are 4 natural remedies for fungal skin conditions that are safe and easy to try.
- Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)- Dilute the ACV and then apply it with a cotton pad or cotton ball to the skin area. If using it to treat your scalp, dilute it at least 50%. Rinse the scalp with the mixture. Shampoo and condition as normal then rinse the scalp with the mixture again. Rinse your hair with water afterward. An added benefit is that it makes your hair nice and soft.
- Melaleuca Oil- Also known as tea tree oil. This oil has incredible anti-fungal properties. Put it in a base of coconut oil and apply it to the rash. Melaleuca oil also works great on the scalp.
- Coconut oil – Even on its own, coconut oil does a phenomenal job at fighting fungus. The advantage of coconut oil is it is safe and gentle enough to use daily and even on sensitive skin areas. You should get an organic, unrefined product.
- Colloidal Silver- Colloidal Silver is a great broad-spectrum anti-microbial agent and can offer great itch relief as well. Quality matters. We use ACS Silver. It is not in an alcohol base which offers an advantage for use on the skin as it is not so drying.
If your skin condition does not improve with topical remedies, is severe, or is affecting the toenails, it is highly likely that it is due to an internal fungal challenge rather than isolated to the skin. If that is the case, topical natural skin fungus remedies are unlikely to achieve lasting results. If you fall under this category, consult with an NHCAA practitioner to see if you are a good candidate for an anti-fungal diet and/or supplement protocol. You can make an appointment to see Dr. Childress by calling 734-302-7575.
Yours in Health,
Amanda Childress, PharmD
