You develop oral thrush when there is an overgrowth of fungus called candida albicans. White lesions on your gums, roof of the mouth, tongue, or throat are symptoms. You may also have the feeling of "cotton mouth". Infants usually develop thrush while breastfeeding, but adults can also develop it when they have a weakened immune system. You are also at an increased risk of developing oral thrush if you wear dentures. Your doctor may prescribe anti-fungal medications to treat your condition, and you also can try some natural remedies, like apple cider vinegar to treat oral thrush.
How to Use Apple Cider Vinegar for Oral Thrush
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) works because it contains enzymes that help clear the candida infection. It also helps restore a balance in pH levels, which keeps you from dealing with the infection again. Moreover, regular use of ACV helps improve your immune system, which lowers your risk of becoming infected in the first place. You can use apple cider vinegar to treat oral thrush in a number of different ways.
1. Drink ACV Mixture
You can make a mixture by dissolving a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water. Drink it before you have your meals, at least twice a day. Be sure to drink it every day to help stop the spread of fungus. To make this remedy work, you should ensure that you are taking organic apple cider vinegar. You can enhance the flavor by adding the vinegar in vegetable or fruit juice, and you can also add it in herbal teas to enjoy amazing benefits.
2. Apply ACV to Affected Areas
Take low acidic vinegar and add 2 tablespoons in water. Now, dip a piece of cloth in the solution and apply it directly to the affected area. You may experience a burning sensation which is usually common if your infection is severe. To manage the pain, apply ACV to a small area first.
If you are struggling with irritation and itching, you can make a solution by mixing equal quantities of water and vinegar. Apply it on the affected area for instant relief.
3. Include ACV in Your Diet
It is a good idea to include ACV in your diet to improve digestion. With a healthier digestive system, you are less likely to deal with yeast infections. It works by maintaining the pH balance of your body.
You can add it in pickling vegetables and fruits. Using it in salads such as coleslaw is also a good idea. Another great way is to sprinkle it on baked potatoes and eat them regularly.
4. Prepare an ACV Mocktail
It is a fun way of boosting your immune system, and consume it regularly to see positive results.
- Take a large glass and fill it with 1 ½ cups of water.
- Then, add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to it along with 2 tablespoons of cranberry juice.
- Stir it well, and while doing it, drizzle in 2 tablespoons of raw maple syrup.
- Dissolve all the ingredients completely. Add some ice and enjoy!
5. Make an ACV Mouthwash
This is one of the best ways to utilize apple cider vinegar for oral thrush.
- Take a tablespoon of water and a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. Mix well to prepare a solution.
- Gargle with this solution twice a day for at least 60 seconds at a time.
- Do not forget to swish it around your mouth well before you spit it out.
6. Take ACV in Supplement Form
The simplest way to use apple cider vinegar for oral thrush is to get its supplements. These supplements are available in different forms – you can find tonics, tablets, and capsules that contain ACV. Regular consumption of ACV supplements helps boost your immune system and provides your body with strength to fight yeast and bacterial infections.
When to See a Doctor
You should see your doctor if you notice no improvement in your symptoms after trying natural home remedies. It is also a good idea to talk to your doctor if your symptoms recur often or you already have cancer, HIV infection, or another condition that has weakened your immune system.
Other Home Remedies for Oral Thrush
Using apple cider vinegar for oral thrush is a great method, but you can also try other ways to prevent and treat this condition. Here are a few options:
1. Curd
Candida overgrowth can overpower healthy bacteria in your gut. Since curd has probiotics, it can increase the number of healthy bacteria and hinder the growth of the fungus. Be sure to avoid sweetened curds though because candida loves sugar.
2. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is one of the safest treatment options for both adults and children. It has antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-fungal properties, which is the reason why you can trust it to treat oral thrush. Simply take pure coconut oil and rub it inside your mouth.
3. Baking Soda
Baking soda is another effective remedy for oral thrush in adults.
- Take a glass of warm water and add a teaspoon of baking soda to it.
- Mix well and rinse your mouth with this solution.
- Be sure to swish it around your mouth and then spit it out. Do it thrice a day to clear the infection.
You can find more remedies to deal with oral thrush at here.