Oral thrush is a mouth infection caused by yeast. The mouth, skin and digestive system naturally have yeast in them, but it is an imbalance in bacteria and microorganisms that causes a thrush outbreak. The infection causes white lesions on the tongue, inner cheeks and roof of the mouth that resemble cottage cheese. There are home remedies for treating the infection.
Yoghurt or Buttermilk
Active culture yoghurt of any kind or buttermilk are home cures for thrush that get directly to the root of the problem. Since thrush is an infection caused by yeast, creating an internal environment unfriendly to yeast production is the best way to make the infection go away. The active cultures in yoghurt or buttermilk replace the normal flora in the body so that the yeast cannot reproduce. This treatment is likely to clear up the infection within a couple of days, according to MedicineNet.com. If you choose to use yoghurt, eat it slowly and hold it in your mouth for at least 30 seconds so that the bacteria cultures have direct contact with the infectious blisters. If you choose the buttermilk route, drink a glass twice a day.
- Active culture yoghurt of any kind or buttermilk are home cures for thrush that get directly to the root of the problem.
- If you choose to use yoghurt, eat it slowly and hold it in your mouth for at least 30 seconds so that the bacteria cultures have direct contact with the infectious blisters.
Anti-Fungal Mouthwash
Oral thrush can be treated with an easily mixed homemade mouthwash. Using two ingredients known to kill yeast, you can create a gargle that will assist in clearing up the condition. Blend equal parts of warm water and apple cider vinegar and add a pinch of salt, according to Grandma's Home Remedies. The apple cider vinegar kills yeast on contact, as does salt. If you cannot handle the taste of vinegar, then a stronger saltwater solution may also work to eliminate the infection.
- Oral thrush can be treated with an easily mixed homemade mouthwash.
- If you cannot handle the taste of vinegar, then a stronger saltwater solution may also work to eliminate the infection.
Garlic and Onions
Who knew a cure for oral thrush could be so delicious? Garlic and onions both have the power to destroy candida (yeast), which is the cause of thrush. Incorporating more garlic and onions into the diet can help cure current yeast infections like thrush---and also help prevent future outbreaks.
Passing the Infection
Babies and toddlers are often afflicted with thrush that is passed from their mothers during breastfeeding. To prevent the passage of yeast, use pure, raw coconut oil on your nipples and around the baby's mouth. This will prevent the passage of yeast from mother to child, and the oil is actually good for the baby.