By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 09, 2024
10 Best Herbal Teas For Fungal Skin Infection
Herbal teas for fungal skin infection are natural remedies made from various herbs, plants, and botanicals that help combat fungal infections such as athlete's foot, ringworm, and fungal acne.
These teas contain antifungal properties that inhibit the growth of fungi, reducing symptoms and promoting healing.
Examples of helpful herbal teas include tea tree oil, chamomile, and calendula, which can be consumed as a warm tea or applied topically to affected areas, improving lives by providing relief from discomfort and promoting a healthy skin ecosystem.
The following article describes in detail the most important teas for fungal skin infection, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Melaleuca alternifolia
- 2. Calendula officinalis
- 3. Allium sativum
- 4. Matricaria chamomilla
- 5. Lavandula angustifolia
- 6. Hydrastis canadensis
- 7. Curcuma longa
- 8. Zingiber officinale
- 9. Sambucus nigra
- 10. Achillea millefolium
- What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for fungal skin infection?
- What ailments similar to fungal skin infection are treated with herbal teas?
1. Melaleuca alternifolia
Melaleuca alternifolia, also known as tea tree, teas helps with fungal skin infection because of its potent antifungal properties.
The tea's active compound, terpinen-4-ol, inhibits the growth of fungal cells, effectively reducing the severity of infections such as athlete's foot and ringworm. Additionally, tea tree tea has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe and calm the skin, promoting a healthy environment for skin to recover from fungal infections.
This natural remedy offers a safe and effective alternative to traditional treatments.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melaleuca alternifolia teas that help with fungal skin infection.
- Cineole: Cineole, a monoterpenic compound, helps to combat fungal skin infections by inhibiting the growth of fungi such as Candida albicans and Malassezia spp.
- Limonene: Limonene, a monoterpenic compound, exhibits antifungal properties by disrupting the cell membranes of fungi, thereby inhibiting their growth and proliferation.
- Cymene: Cymene, a monoterpenic compound, displays antifungal activity by interfering with the cell membrane of fungi, leading to their death and inhibition of fungal skin infections.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tea tree used to make teas for fungal skin infection.
- Leaves: Used due to their high content of tea tree oil, which has antifungal and antibacterial properties.
- Stems: Utilized for their ability to produce tea tree oil, which helps combat fungal infections.
- Leaves: Used due to their oil content which is used in treatments for fungal infections.
- Leaves: Used due to their high content of tea tree oil, which has antifungal and antibacterial properties.
- Leaves: Used due to their oil content which is used in treatments for fungal infections.
- Leaves: Used due to their oil content which is used in treatments for fungal infections.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea tree for fungal skin infection.
- Harvest fresh leaves from the melaleuca alternifolia plant for a minimum of 30 grams for a standard batch.
- Dry the leaves in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
- Combine 1 teaspoon of dried melaleuca alternifolia leaves with 1 cup of boiling water for a standard brew.
- Steep the mixture for 5-10 minutes to allow the herbal properties to infuse into the water.
- Strain the tea and discard the leaves to enjoy the melaleuca alternifolia tea immediately.
2. Calendula officinalis
Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, teas helps with fungal skin infection because of its potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The tea's active compounds, such as triterpenoids and carotenoids, have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungal pathogens, including candida and dermatophytes.
Additionally, calendula's anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce redness, swelling, and itching associated with fungal skin infections, promoting a faster recovery and preventing further infection.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis teas that help with fungal skin infection.
- Sesquiterpenes: These compounds have been shown to exhibit antifungal properties, helping to inhibit the growth of fungal pathogens that cause skin infections.
- Flavonoids: These phenolic compounds have been found to have antifungal and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help to reduce inflammation and combat fungal infections.
- Carotenoids: These pigments have been reported to possess antifungal activity, which can help to prevent the spread of fungal pathogens and promote the healing of infected skin.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make teas for fungal skin infection.
- Leaves: Used for their antimicrobial properties, which help combat fungal infections.
- Flowers: Employed for their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which aid in soothing and healing fungal skin conditions.
- Roots: Utilized for their antifungal properties, which help to suppress the growth of fungi and alleviate fungal skin infections.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for fungal skin infection.
- Harvest 20 to 30 fresh calendula officinalis flowers in the morning when they are fully open.
- Rinse the flowers with cold water to remove any dirt or debris for 30 seconds.
- Dry the calendula officinalis flowers in a warm place with good air circulation for 2 weeks.
- Combine 1 teaspoon of dried calendula officinalis flowers with 1 cup of boiling water for 5 minutes.
- Strain the tea and let it cool for 10 minutes before drinking 1 to 3 cups per day.
3. Allium sativum
Allium sativum, also known as garlic, teas helps with fungal skin infection because of its antimicrobial properties.
The active compounds in garlic, particularly allicin, have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungi, including species that cause skin infections such as athlete's foot and ringworm. The antifungal properties of garlic tea can help to reduce inflammation and promote healing in affected areas, making it a potential natural remedy for fungal skin infections.
Its effectiveness is attributed to its ability to target and destroy fungal cells.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Allium sativum teas that help with fungal skin infection.
- Allicin: A sulfur-containing compound that exhibits antifungal properties, inhibiting the growth of fungal pathogens and reducing inflammation in the skin.
- Quercetin: A flavonoid phenolic compound that has been shown to exhibit antifungal activity by interfering with fungal cell membrane function and preventing the formation of biofilms.
- Diallyl disulfide: A sulfur-containing compound that has been found to exhibit antifungal activity by disrupting fungal cell membrane function and inhibiting the production of fungal virulence factors.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of garlic used to make teas for fungal skin infection.
- Leaves: Used for their antifungal properties, which aid in reducing fungal growth on the skin.
- Roots: Used for their potential antifungal and antibacterial properties, which help treat fungal skin infections.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic garlic for fungal skin infection.
- Harvest 2-3 allium sativum bulbs when leaves are yellowish green and begin to fall over.
- Peel the bulbs and chop them into small pieces weighing about 2-3 grams per cup.
- Boil 250 milliliters of water in a teapot for 5 minutes to reach a rolling boil.
- Steep the chopped allium sativum pieces in boiling water for 5-7 minutes to infuse flavors.
- Strain the liquid into a cup and serve the tea warm or at room temperature.
4. Matricaria chamomilla
Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, teas helps with fungal skin infection because of its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The tea's active compounds, such as apigenin and luteolin, have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungi, reducing the severity of infections like ringworm and athlete's foot. Additionally, chamomile's soothing and calming effects can help alleviate the discomfort and itching associated with fungal skin infections, promoting a faster recovery and improved overall health.
Its natural antifungal properties make it a popular choice for treating fungal skin infections.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla teas that help with fungal skin infection.
- Apigenin: Apigenin is an effective flavonoid that exhibits antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to reduce fungal growth and inflammation associated with fungal skin infections.
- Luteolin: Luteolin is a flavonoid with potent antifungal and anti-inflammatory activities, which contribute to its effectiveness in treating fungal skin infections by inhibiting fungal growth and reducing inflammation.
- Α-bisabolol: α-bisabolol is a sesquiterpene alcohol with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to combat fungal skin infections by inhibiting fungal growth and reducing inflammation and redness associated with these infections.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make teas for fungal skin infection.
- Flowers: They contain essential oils and flavonoids that exhibit antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to soothe and calm fungal skin infections.
- Leaves: They contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that have antimicrobial properties, which help to combat fungal growth and reduce inflammation.
- Seeds: They contain sesquiterpene lactones that have antifungal and antibacterial properties, which help to inhibit fungal growth and promote healing of fungal skin infections.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for fungal skin infection.
- Harvest the matricaria chamomilla flowers when they are in full bloom and the petals are completely open.
- Dry the freshly harvested flowers in a warm place with good air circulation for 1 to 2 weeks.
- Measure out 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers for every 8 ounce cup of water.
- Steep the dried flowers in boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes to release their active compounds.
- Strain the tea and let it cool before serving to enjoy its calming and soothing effects.
5. Lavandula angustifolia
Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, teas helps with fungal skin infection because of its antifungal properties.
The tea contains compounds such as linalool and linalyl acetate, which have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungal organisms like Candida and Aspergillus. These compounds can help to reduce inflammation and promote healing in affected areas, making it easier to combat fungal skin infections.
Additionally, the antiseptic properties of Lavandula angustifolia tea can help prevent the spread of infection.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia teas that help with fungal skin infection.
- Linalool: A terpene with antifungal properties that helps inhibit the growth of fungal pathogens, such as Trichophyton species, which cause skin infections like athlete's foot.
- Lavandulol: A sesquiterpene with antiseptic and antifungal properties that helps combat fungal infections by disrupting the cell membranes of fungal pathogens, ultimately leading to their death.
- Luteolin: A flavonoid with antioxidant and antifungal properties that helps reduce inflammation and prevent the spread of fungal infections, while also promoting wound healing and tissue repair.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make teas for fungal skin infection.
- Leaves: They contain bioactive compounds that exhibit antifungal properties, which can help combat fungal infections.
- Flowers: Rich in essential oils, they possess antimicrobial properties that can aid in treating fungal infections on the skin.
- Stems: They contain flavonoids and other compounds that may help reduce inflammation and fight fungal infections.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for fungal skin infection.
- Harvest 20 to 30 dried lavandula angustifolia flowers or 2 tablespoons of fresh flowers in the morning.
- Combine the dried flowers in a tea infuser or add fresh flowers to a teapot.
- Steep the flowers in 1 cup of boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes to release the essential oils.
- Strain the tea into a cup using a tea strainer or a piece of cheesecloth to remove the flowers.
- Drink the tea immediately and enjoy its calming effects within 10 to 15 minutes.
6. Hydrastis canadensis
Hydrastis canadensis, also known as goldenseal, teas helps with fungal skin infection because of its antimicrobial properties.
The berberine content in goldenseal tea has been shown to inhibit the growth of fungi, such as candida and athlete's foot. This tea's antifungal properties help to reduce inflammation and combat fungal overgrowth, promoting a healthy skin environment.
Goldenseal tea has been traditionally used to treat various fungal infections, including ringworm and fungal rashes, showcasing its effectiveness in soothing and healing affected skin.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hydrastis canadensis teas that help with fungal skin infection.
- Berberine: Berberine has antifungal properties that inhibit the growth of fungi, helping to combat fungal skin infections.
- Hydrastine: Hydrastine has antimicrobial and antifungal properties that help to reduce the severity of fungal skin infections by inhibiting the growth of fungal pathogens.
- Berbamine: Berbamine has antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties that help to soothe and heal fungal skin infections by reducing inflammation and preventing further infection.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of goldenseal used to make teas for fungal skin infection.
- Roots: The roots are the primary part used to make teas due to their high content of berberine, a compound with antimicrobial properties that helps combat fungal infections.
- Barks: Barks of Hydrastis canadensis may also be used to make teas, as they are rich in berberine, which can help combat fungal infections due to its antimicrobial properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic goldenseal for fungal skin infection.
- Harvest 2-4 ounces of dried root or 4-6 ounces of fresh root of hydrastis canadensis.
- Rinse the hydrastis canadensis root in cold water and pat dry with a paper towel.
- Steep 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of dried root or 1 teaspoon of fresh root in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-10 minutes.
- Strain the hydrastis canadensis tea through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a cup.
- Allow the tea to cool to room temperature before consuming within 30 minutes to an hour.
7. Curcuma longa
Curcuma longa, also known as turmeric, teas helps with fungal skin infection because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties.
The active compound, curcumin, found in turmeric exhibits strong inhibitory effects on fungal growth, thereby reducing the severity of infections. The tea's antimicrobial properties also help to prevent the spread of fungal spores, promoting a faster recovery from skin infections such as ringworm and athlete's foot.
Furthermore, turmeric tea's anti-inflammatory properties help to soothe and calm affected skin areas.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa teas that help with fungal skin infection.
- Curcumin: It has potent antifungal properties, inhibiting the growth of fungal pathogens such as Candida albicans, which cause skin infections like dermatitis and onychomycosis.
- Tumerones: These sesquiterpenoids exhibit antifungal activity by disrupting the cell membrane of fungal cells, ultimately leading to their death and preventing the spread of fungal skin infections.
- Demethoxycurcumin: This compound has been shown to have antifungal properties, inhibiting the growth of Candida and other fungal pathogens, and may also reduce inflammation associated with fungal skin infections.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make teas for fungal skin infection.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are commonly used due to their high concentration of curcumin, a compound with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help combat fungal infections.
- Roots: Roots are utilized for their ability to reduce inflammation and fight off fungal pathogens, making them a popular ingredient in teas for fungal skin infections.
- Leaves: Leaves are often used in teas due to their antioxidant and antifungal properties, which help to soothe and heal fungal skin infections.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for fungal skin infection.
- Harvest 20-30 grams of dried curcuma longa rhizomes from a trusted supplier or local market for optimal quality.
- Rinse the dried curcuma longa rhizomes with cold water to remove any impurities or debris.
- Chop the curcuma longa rhizomes into fine pieces to enhance their bioavailability and facilitate infusion.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of chopped curcuma longa rhizomes in 1 cup of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the tea and discard the solids after the steeping time to enjoy the curcuma longa tea.
8. Zingiber officinale
Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, teas helps with fungal skin infection because of its potent antifungal properties.
The active compounds in ginger, such as zingerone and shogaol, have been shown to inhibit the growth of various fungi, including Candida albicans, a common cause of fungal skin infections. The antimicrobial properties of ginger also help reduce inflammation and promote healing, making it a natural remedy for fungal skin conditions like athlete's foot and nail fungus.
This makes ginger tea a promising alternative treatment.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale teas that help with fungal skin infection.
- Gingerols: These gingerols have been shown to exhibit antifungal properties by inhibiting the growth of fungi such as Candida albicans, which is a common cause of fungal skin infections.
- Shogaols: These shogaols have been found to possess antifungal activity by disrupting the cell membrane of fungal cells, ultimately leading to cell death and inhibition of fungal growth.
- Curcuminoids: Curcuminoids, specifically curcumin, have been reported to have antifungal activity against various fungal species, including Candida, by modulating the immune response and reducing inflammation in the affected area.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make teas for fungal skin infection.
- Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes are used due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds, particularly gingerol and shogaol, which exhibit antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help combat fungal infections.
- Roots: The roots are used for their ability to stimulate the immune system and reduce inflammation, thus helping to fight off fungal infections.
- Stems: The stems are used due to their high content of gingerols and shogaols, which have been shown to exhibit antifungal properties that help prevent the growth of fungal pathogens.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for fungal skin infection.
- Gather 1 teaspoon of dried zingiber officinale root and place it in a tea infuser.
- Boil 8 ounces of water in a kettle for 5 minutes to reach 212 degrees fahrenheit.
- Steep the zingiber officinale root in the boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Strain the tea into a cup using the tea infuser and discard the solids.
- Add honey or lemon to taste and enjoy the tea immediately.
9. Sambucus nigra
Sambucus nigra, also known as elder, teas helps with fungal skin infection because of its antifungal properties.
The tea contains compounds like flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have been shown to inhibit the growth of various fungi. Additionally, elderberry tea has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce redness and swelling associated with fungal skin infections.
The antioxidants present in the tea also promote a healthy immune response, aiding the body in fighting off the infection and promoting faster recovery.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sambucus nigra teas that help with fungal skin infection.
- Anthocyanins: These powerful antioxidants have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce inflammation and combat fungal growth on the skin.
- Flavonoids: These phenolic compounds exhibit antifungal activity by inhibiting the growth of fungal cells and preventing the formation of biofilms, which can help combat fungal skin infections.
- Clerodane diterpenes: These terpenes have been shown to exhibit antifungal activity by disrupting the cell membrane of fungal cells and preventing the production of fungal enzymes, which can help control fungal growth on the skin.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of elder used to make teas for fungal skin infection.
- Flowers: The flowers of Sambucus nigra are the most commonly used part for teas due to their high anthocyanin content, which is believed to possess antifungal properties.
- Leaves: The leaves contain bioactive compounds that may help combat fungal infections, making them a popular choice for teas.
- Barks: The barks of Sambucus nigra contain flavonoids and phenolic acids, which may exhibit antifungal activity and contribute to their use in teas for fungal skin infections.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic elder for fungal skin infection.
- Harvest 2-4 grams of dried sambucus nigra flowers or berries from a trusted source.
- Dry the flowers or berries for 7-10 days to ensure optimal flavor and potency.
- Combine 1 teaspoon of dried sambucus nigra with 1 cup of boiling water in a tea infuser.
- Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse into the water.
- Strain the tea and discard the solids before serving in a cup.
10. Achillea millefolium
Achillea millefolium, also known as yarrow, teas helps with fungal skin infection because of its natural antifungal properties.
The tea contains compounds like sesquiterpene lactones, which have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungi and bacteria, thereby reducing the severity of skin infections. Additionally, yarrow tea's anti-inflammatory properties help to soothe and calm irritated skin, promoting a faster healing process and reducing the risk of further infection.
Its natural antibacterial properties also prevent secondary infections.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Achillea millefolium teas that help with fungal skin infection.
- Apigenin: Apigenin, a flavonoid, has antifungal properties that inhibit the growth and proliferation of fungal cells, which can help treat fungal skin infections.
- Nepetalactone: Nepetalactone, a terpene, exhibits antifungal activity by disrupting the cell membrane of fungal cells, thereby inhibiting their growth and spread on the skin.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid, a phenolic compound, has been shown to possess antifungal and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce the severity and duration of fungal skin infections by inhibiting the growth of fungal pathogens.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of yarrow used to make teas for fungal skin infection.
- Leaves: The leaves of Achillea millefolium are used to make teas for fungal skin infections because they contain compounds with antifungal properties.
- Flowers: The flowers of Achillea millefolium are used to make teas for fungal skin infections due to their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Roots: The roots of Achillea millefolium are used to make teas for fungal skin infections because they contain bioactive compounds that exhibit antifungal activity.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yarrow for fungal skin infection.
- Harvest fresh achillea millefolium flowers and leaves in the early morning or late afternoon when they are at their highest oil content.
- Dry the harvested flowers and leaves in a single layer in a warm dry place for 1 to 2 weeks.
- Grind 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried flowers and leaves into a fine powder using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of the powdered achillea millefolium in 1 cup of boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth and serve hot or let it cool to drink immediately.
What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for fungal skin infection?
The best combination of herbal teas that help with fungal skin infection is a blend of tea tree oil-infused tea, calendula tea, and goldenseal tea.
Tea tree oil has antimicrobial properties that combat fungal growth, while calendula promotes skin healing and reduces inflammation. Goldenseal tea contains berberine, which has antifungal and antibacterial properties that aid in fighting infections.
Drinking these teas together can help alleviate symptoms and promote recovery from fungal skin infections.
What ailments similar to fungal skin infection are treated with herbal teas?
Ailments similar to fungal skin infection that are treated with herbal teas are eczema, acne, and rosacea.
Herbs like tea tree, lavender, and chamomile have antifungal and antibacterial properties that help soothe and calm the skin, reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
These herbs can be consumed as a tea or applied topically to affected areas, providing natural relief from these common skin issues.