By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 09, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Fungal Skin Infection
Herbal tinctures for fungal skin infection are concentrated liquid extracts made from plants, herbs, and flowers that have been traditionally used to combat fungal infections such as athlete's foot, ringworm, and toenail fungus.
These natural remedies help to reduce inflammation, prevent fungal growth, and promote healthy skin by incorporating antifungal properties into the body. Examples of herbal tinctures that show promise in treating fungal skin infections include tea tree oil, garlic, and oregano, which can be applied topically or taken internally.
By using these tinctures, individuals with fungal skin infections may experience improved symptoms, reduced itching and burning, and a faster recovery time, ultimately improving their overall quality of life.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for fungal skin infection, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Melaleuca alternifolia
- 2. Calendula officinalis
- 3. Echinacea angustifolia
- 4. Allium sativum
- 5. Origanum vulgare
- 6. Aloe vera
- 7. Curcuma longa
- 8. Sambucus nigra
- 9. Zingiber officinale
- 10. Ulmus rubra
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for fungal skin infection?
- What ailments similar to fungal skin infection are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Melaleuca alternifolia
Tea tree tinctures helps with fungal skin infection because of its potent antifungal properties.
The tannins and terpenes present in tea tree oil work synergistically to inhibit the growth of fungi, reducing inflammation and discomfort caused by infections such as athlete's foot, ringworm, and nail fungus.
Additionally, tea tree's antimicrobial properties help to combat bacterial overgrowth that can exacerbate fungal infections, promoting a healthy balance of skin microbiota and facilitating the body's natural healing process.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melaleuca alternifolia tinctures that help with fungal skin infection.
- Cineole: This terpene has antimicrobial properties that help combat fungal infections by disrupting the fungal cell membrane and preventing the growth of pathogens.
- Cymene: This phenolic compound has antifungal properties that inhibit the growth of fungi by altering their cell membrane and preventing the production of essential enzymes necessary for their survival.
- Limonene: This terpene has antifungal and antibacterial properties that help reduce the severity of fungal skin infections by inhibiting the growth of pathogens and reducing inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tea tree used to make tinctures for fungal skin infection.
- Leaves: Used to make tinctures due to their high content of tea tree oil, which has antimicrobial and antifungal properties.
- Leaves: Used to make tinctures due to their ability to reduce inflammation and promote healing in fungal skin infections.
- Leaves: Used to make tinctures due to their ability to kill fungal pathogens and prevent infection.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea tree for fungal skin infection.
- Harvest 1 to 2 cups of fresh leaves from the melaleuca alternifolia plant at peak oil production in early morning.
- Chop the leaves into small pieces using a sharp knife or herb cutter to increase surface area.
- Combine the chopped leaves with 80 proof vodka in a 1:5 ratio by volume in a glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the jar daily to extract the oil.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another glass container discarding the solids.
2. Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold tinctures helps with fungal skin infection because of its antifungal properties, which effectively combat fungal overgrowth on the skin.
The tannins and flavonoids present in calendula, the active ingredient in pot marigold, have been shown to inhibit the growth of Candida and other fungal species, reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
Additionally, pot marigold's anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties help soothe and calm the affected area, allowing for a faster recovery from fungal skin infections such as athlete's foot, ringworm, and candidiasis.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis tinctures that help with fungal skin infection.
- Sesquiterpenes: These compounds help combat fungal skin infections by exhibiting antifungal properties, which inhibit the growth of fungi and prevent their colonization on the skin.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Calendula officinalis, such as quercetin and kaempferol, have been shown to possess antifungal and anti-inflammatory activities, which aid in reducing inflammation and fighting fungal infections.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, including caffeic acid and ferulic acid, found in Calendula officinalis have been demonstrated to exhibit antifungal properties, which help in suppressing the growth of fungi and preventing infections.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make tinctures for fungal skin infection.
- Flowers: They are used due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds, such as triterpenoids and flavonoids, which exhibit antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: They are used due to their ability to inhibit the growth of fungal pathogens and their anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe and calm the skin.
- Roots: They are used due to their ability to exhibit antimicrobial and antifungal properties, which can help combat fungal skin infections.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for fungal skin infection.
- Harvest 25g of dried calendula flowers in the morning when the dew is still present on the petals.
- Clean the flowers thoroughly with a soft brush and let them air dry for 2 hours.
- Combine the cleaned flowers with 500ml of 80% ethanol in a dark glass jar for 6 weeks.
- Shake the jar daily for 2 minutes to facilitate the extraction of the active ingredients for 6 weeks.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.
3. Echinacea angustifolia
Kansas coneflower tinctures helps with fungal skin infection because of its antifungal properties.
The herb, also known as Echinacea angustifolia, has been used for centuries to treat various ailments, including infections caused by fungi. The tincture contains compounds that inhibit the growth and reproduction of fungi, making it an effective natural remedy for treating skin conditions like athlete's foot, ringworm, and fungal acne.
Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce redness, itching, and swelling associated with these infections, providing relief to affected individuals.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia tinctures that help with fungal skin infection.
- Iridoids: Iridoids, such as echinacoside and isolechinacoside, help by exhibiting antifungal properties and inhibiting the growth of fungal pathogens, thus preventing the spread of infection.
- Phenolic glycosides: Phenolic glycosides, including echinacoside and isolechinacoside, show antifungal and antibacterial activity, which helps in reducing the fungal load and preventing secondary infections on the skin.
- Alkylphenols: Alkylphenols, such as alkylphenol glycosides, possess antimicrobial properties, including antifungal activity, which helps in controlling fungal growth and reducing the severity of skin infections.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make tinctures for fungal skin infection.
- Roots: They are commonly used due to their rich content of alkaloids, which are believed to possess antimicrobial properties effective against fungal infections.
- Leaves: They are utilized for their ability to inhibit the growth of fungi and promote wound healing, making them a popular choice for treating fungal skin infections.
- Root buds: They contain bioactive compounds that exhibit antifungal activity, helping to combat fungal skin infections and promote the healing process.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for fungal skin infection.
- Harvest echinacea angustifolia roots in the fall after the plant has gone to seed.
- Chop the dried roots into small pieces using a sharp knife or a root cutter.
- Combine the chopped root with 500 milliliters of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Place the jar in a cool dark location and let it steep for six to eight weeks.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.
4. Allium sativum
Garlic tinctures helps with fungal skin infection because it contains compounds like allicin, which exhibit antifungal properties.
Allicin has been shown to inhibit the growth of various fungi that cause skin infections, including Candida and Malassezia. When applied topically as a tincture, these compounds can penetrate deep into the skin, targeting fungal hyphae and preventing them from spreading and causing further infection.
The antifungal properties of garlic tinctures make it a natural and effective treatment for fungal skin infections, promoting healthy skin and reducing symptoms such as itching, redness, and flaking.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Allium sativum tinctures that help with fungal skin infection.
- Allicin: Acts as a broad-spectrum antimicrobial agent, effectively inhibiting the growth of fungal pathogens and preventing the spread of infection.
- Quercetin: Exhibits potent antifungal properties, suppressing the metabolic activity of fungal cells and contributing to the healing of fungal skin infections.
- S-allylcysteine: Demonstrates antifungal and antiseptic activities, helping to combat fungal pathogens and reduce inflammation associated with fungal skin infections.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of garlic used to make tinctures for fungal skin infection.
- Roots: They contain compounds with antimicrobial and antifungal properties that help combat fungal skin infections.
- Buds: The buds may contain antifungal compounds that aid in the treatment of fungal skin infections when made into a tincture.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes of Allium sativum are used in herbal medicine to create antifungal tinctures that can help alleviate fungal skin infections.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic garlic for fungal skin infection.
- Harvest approximately 30-40 allium sativum bulbs in the early spring when the tops are dying off naturally.
- Dry the harvested allium sativum bulbs in a cool dark place for about 2-3 weeks.
- Chop the dried allium sativum bulbs into small pieces using a sharp knife or a food processor.
- Combine the chopped allium sativum with 80 proof vodka in a 1:2 ratio by weight for 2-3 weeks.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.
5. Origanum vulgare
Wild marjoram tinctures helps with fungal skin infection because of its potent antimicrobial properties.
The herb contains triterpenoids, which have been shown to inhibit the growth and development of various fungal species, including Candida albicans, a common culprit in skin infections. Additionally, wild marjoram's anti-inflammatory properties help soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing redness and discomfort associated with fungal infections.
By targeting both the infectious agents and inflammation, wild marjoram tinctures can promote healthy skin and accelerate healing.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Origanum vulgare tinctures that help with fungal skin infection.
- Carvacrol: A monoterpenic phenol, carvacrol in Origanum vulgare tinctures has antifungal properties, helping to combat fungal skin infections by inhibiting the growth of fungi such as Candida and Staphylococcus.
- Thymol: A monoterpenic phenol, thymol in Origanum vulgare tinctures has potent antifungal and antibacterial properties, helping to prevent the spread of fungal skin infections and promoting wound healing.
- Bornyl acetate: A monoterpene, bornyl acetate in Origanum vulgare tinctures has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing inflammation and promoting a healthy skin environment.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of wild marjoram used to make tinctures for fungal skin infection.
- Leaves: They are the primary part used due to their high concentration of antifungal compounds, such as carvacrol and thymol, which help combat fungal infections.
- Buds: Buds of Origanum vulgare are often used for their high antioxidant and antifungal properties, which aid in treating fungal skin infections.
- Stems: Although less commonly used than leaves, the stems of Origanum vulgare may be used due to their secondary metabolites, which exhibit antifungal activities, thus supporting their use in tinctures.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wild marjoram for fungal skin infection.
- Gather fresh or dried origanum vulgare leaves and stems in a quantity of about 500 grams.
- Combine the origanum vulgare with 75 percent vodka in a clean glass jar with a ratio of 1 part herbs to 2 parts vodka.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 4 to 6 weeks with occasional shaking.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container discarding the solids.
- Filter the liquid through a coffee filter to remove any remaining impurities before transferring it to a dark glass bottle.
6. Aloe vera
Aloe tinctures helps with fungal skin infection because of its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The aloe vera gel contains compounds like aloin, aloe-emodin, and barbaloin that exhibit potent antifungal activity against various species of fungi, including Candida albicans, Malassezia, and Trichophyton. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory properties of aloe vera help reduce redness, swelling, and itching associated with fungal skin infections, promoting healing and relieving discomfort.
This natural remedy can provide effective relief for individuals suffering from fungal skin infections without relying on harsh chemicals or antibiotics.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera tinctures that help with fungal skin infection.
- Aloe-emodin: Aloe-emodin is a anthraquinone derivative that exhibits antifungal properties, helping to inhibit the growth of fungal pathogens that cause skin infections.
- Lupeol: Lupeol is a triterpene that possesses antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, reducing inflammation and inhibiting the proliferation of fungal cells that cause skin infections.
- Aloe vera polysaccharides: Aloe vera polysaccharides have immunomodulatory and antifungal effects, helping to stimulate the immune system and inhibit the growth of fungal pathogens that cause skin infections.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make tinctures for fungal skin infection.
- Leaves: Aloe vera leaves contain aloin and aloe-emodin, which have been shown to exhibit antifungal properties and can help combat fungal skin infections.
- Leaves: Aloe vera leaves are also rich in acemannan, a polysaccharide that stimulates the immune system and can help fight fungal infections.
- Leaves: The gel extracted from aloe vera leaves contains vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which can help soothe and heal fungal skin infections by reducing inflammation and promoting tissue repair.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for fungal skin infection.
- Harvest aloe vera leaves with 6-8 inches of stem attached for optimal potency and shelf life.
- Dry aloe vera leaves in a warm low-humidity area for 2-3 weeks to prevent mold.
- Chop dried aloe vera leaves into small pieces and combine with 80-100 proof vodka in a ratio of 1:5.
- Steep the aloe vera and vodka mixture in a clean glass jar for 2-3 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the tincture through a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and store it in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.
7. Curcuma longa
Turmeric tinctures helps with fungal skin infection because of its potent antimicrobial properties, which inhibit the growth and spread of fungal pathogens.
The curcuminoids in turmeric have been shown to exhibit antifungal activity against various species of fungi, including Candida and Malassezia, common causes of fungal infections on the skin.
Additionally, turmeric's anti-inflammatory properties help reduce redness, swelling, and itching associated with these infections, promoting a faster recovery and improved overall skin health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa tinctures that help with fungal skin infection.
- Curcumin: This polyphenolic compound has potent antifungal properties, inhibiting the growth of fungal pathogens and reducing inflammation associated with fungal infections.
- Demethoxycurcumin: This demethoxylated analog of curcumin exhibits antifungal activity against various fungal species, including Candida albicans, by disrupting fungal cell membrane integrity.
- Curcumenol: This sesquiterpene has been shown to exhibit antifungal activity against dermatophytes, a common cause of fungal skin infections, by inhibiting fungal spore germination and hyphal growth.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make tinctures for fungal skin infection.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are used due to their high concentration of curcumin, a bioactive compound with antifungal properties.
- Roots: Roots are used for their ability to fight fungal infections, particularly those caused by Candida and other yeast-like fungi.
- Leaves: Leaves are used for their antiseptic and antibacterial properties, which help to prevent fungal infections from spreading.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for fungal skin infection.
- Harvest 1 pound of fresh curcuma longa roots with minimal exposure to sunlight during the early morning hours.
- Chop the roots into small pieces weighing about 1 pound and dry them in a single layer at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 24 hours.
- Combine the dried roots with 80 proof vodka in a ratio of 1:5 by weight and steep the mixture for 6 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a glass container to remove the solids and discard the solids.
- Transfer the tincture to a glass dropper bottle and store it in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.
8. Sambucus nigra
Elder tinctures helps with fungal skin infection because of its potent antifungal properties, which target and destroy the fungal cells causing the infection.
The tannins present in elder bark and berries have been shown to inhibit the growth of Candida and other fungal species that cause skin infections. Additionally, elder's antimicrobial compounds help reduce inflammation and promote a healthy immune response, further aiding in the treatment and prevention of fungal skin infections.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to effectively soothe and clear up fungal-related skin issues.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sambucus nigra tinctures that help with fungal skin infection.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, particularly quercetin and kaempferol, in Sambucus nigra tinctures exhibit antifungal properties, helping to combat fungal skin infections by inhibiting the growth of fungi.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, such as caffeic and ferulic acid, in Sambucus nigra tinctures have been shown to possess antifungal activity, helping to reduce fungal populations and alleviate symptoms of fungal skin infections.
- Tannins: Tannins in Sambucus nigra tinctures have been reported to exhibit antifungal and antimicrobial properties, helping to inhibit the growth of fungi and bacteria that contribute to fungal skin infections.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of elder used to make tinctures for fungal skin infection.
- Leaves: They contain compounds like flavonoids and phenolic acids that have antimicrobial properties, which help combat fungal infections.
- Flowers: Rich in flavonoids and anthocyanins, they contribute to the antifungal and anti-inflammatory effects of Sambucus nigra tinctures.
- Barks: The barks contain salicin and other compounds that exhibit antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, making them useful in treating fungal skin infections.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic elder for fungal skin infection.
- Harvest 1-2 pounds of fresh sambucus nigra flowers and leaves for tincture production.
- Chop 1-2 pounds of the plant material into small pieces to increase surface area.
- Combine the chopped plant material with 80-100 proof vodka in a 1:5 ratio by weight for extraction.
- Steep the mixture in a dark glass container for 2-6 weeks with occasional shaking.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass container.
9. Zingiber officinale
Ginger tinctures helps with fungal skin infection because of its potent antifungal properties, which target and destroy the fungus that causes the infection.
The bioactive compounds present in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, have been shown to exhibit antifungal activity against a range of fungal species, including those that cause conditions like athlete's foot and ringworm.
When applied topically or ingested as a tincture, these compounds can help to reduce inflammation, soothe the skin, and promote a healthy environment that discourages fungal growth.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale tinctures that help with fungal skin infection.
- Gingerols: Gingerols, particularly [6]-gingerol, exhibit antifungal properties that inhibit the growth of fungi such as Candida albicans, thereby helping to combat fungal skin infections.
- Shogaols: Shogaols, particularly [6]-shogaol, have been shown to have antifungal and antibacterial activities, helping to reduce the severity of fungal skin infections by inhibiting the growth of pathogenic microorganisms.
- Curcuminoids: Curcuminoids, particularly curcumin, possess potent antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to alleviate symptoms of fungal skin infections by reducing inflammation and inhibiting the growth of fungi.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make tinctures for fungal skin infection.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are used due to their high concentration of antibacterial and antifungal compounds, such as gingerols and shogaols, which help combat fungal infections.
- Roots: Roots are used for their ability to inhibit the growth of fungi and bacteria, reducing the severity of fungal skin infections.
- Barks: Barks are used due to their antimicrobial properties, which help prevent the spread of fungal infections and promote the healing of affected skin areas.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for fungal skin infection.
- Harvest 1 part of dried rhizomes of zingiber officinale for tincture preparation in a clean environment.
- Chop 1 part of the harvested rhizomes into small pieces to increase surface area for extraction.
- Combine the chopped rhizomes with 3 parts of 95% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture for 2 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking of the jar.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.
10. Ulmus rubra
Slippery elm tinctures helps with fungal skin infection because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties.
The tannins present in slippery elm have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungi, reducing inflammation and itching associated with infections like athlete's foot and ringworm. Additionally, slippery elm's demulcent properties create a soothing barrier on the skin, helping to reduce redness and promote healing.
This natural remedy can provide relief from fungal skin infections without harsh chemicals or antibiotics.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ulmus rubra tinctures that help with fungal skin infection.
- Salicin: A glycoside compound that helps reduce inflammation and fights fungal infections by inhibiting the growth of fungal cells and inducing apoptosis (cell death) in fungal organisms.
- Phenolic acids: A group of compounds that exhibit antifungal properties by disrupting fungal cell membranes, inhibiting fungal enzyme activity, and reducing fungal spore germination, thereby preventing fungal infections.
- Flavonoids: A type of antioxidant that helps reduce inflammation and oxidative stress associated with fungal skin infections, also exhibiting antifungal properties by inhibiting fungal cell growth and inducing cell death in fungal organisms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of slippery elm used to make tinctures for fungal skin infection.
- Barks: The barks are used due to their antimicrobial properties, which can help combat fungal infections.
- Leaves: The leaves are used because they contain compounds that have been shown to exhibit antifungal and anti-inflammatory activities.
- Roots: The roots are used due to their ability to produce compounds that have been reported to have antifungal and antimicrobial properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic slippery elm for fungal skin infection.
- Gather 1 part of fresh ulmus rubra bark and 2 parts of vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the ulmus rubra bark in the vodka for 2-6 weeks in a cool dark place.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into another clean glass jar.
- Discard the solids and store the tincture in the refrigerator for up to 2 years.
- Take 20-30 drops of the tincture in water 2-3 times a day as needed for medicinal purposes.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for fungal skin infection?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with fungal skin infection is a blend of Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia), Oregano (Origanum vulgare), and Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis).
Tea Tree tincture is antibacterial and antifungal, while Oregano's potent antifungal properties help combat fungal overgrowth. Goldenseal's berberine content enhances the antifungal and antibacterial effects of the blend.
Taking 10-15 drops of this combination three times a day, with a carrier oil or in a capsule, can aid in soothing and healing fungal skin infections.
What ailments similar to fungal skin infection are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to fungal skin infection that are treated with herbal tinctures are acne, rosacea, and eczema.
Certain herbs such as tea tree oil, lavender, and chamomile have antifungal properties that help soothe and calm the skin.
Herbal tinctures containing these herbs can be used topically or taken internally to reduce inflammation and promote healing of skin conditions characterized by redness, itching, and irritation.