By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 18, 2024
10 Best Herbal Creams For Oral Thrush
Herbal creams for oral thrush are topical treatments that combine natural ingredients to combat fungal infections in the mouth.
They help by reducing inflammation, killing bacteria, and promoting a healthy oral environment. Examples include creams containing tea tree oil, aloe vera, and myrrh, which have been shown to alleviate symptoms of oral thrush.
By using these creams, individuals can reduce discomfort, prevent further infection, and maintain their oral health, improving their overall quality of life and confidence.
The following article describes in detail the most important creams for oral thrush, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Calendula officinalis
- 2. Melissa officinalis
- 3. Matricaria chamomilla
- 4. Taraxacum officinale
- 5. Echinacea angustifolia
- 6. Gaultheria procumbens
- 7. Prunella vulgaris
- 8. Urtica dioica
- 9. Achillea millefolium
- 10. Symphytum officinale
- What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for oral thrush?
- What ailments similar to oral thrush are treated with herbal creams?
1. Calendula officinalis
Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, creams helps with oral thrush because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The cream's active compounds, such as triterpenoids and flavonoids, work to reduce inflammation and kill fungal pathogens that cause oral thrush. By soothing the mucous membranes and promoting a healthy environment, Calendula officinalis creams can help to alleviate symptoms of oral thrush, including pain, redness, and white patches.
This natural remedy offers a gentle and effective solution for treating oral thrush.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis creams that help with oral thrush.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, helping to reduce inflammation and combat the fungal growth that causes oral thrush.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds exhibit antifungal and antioxidant properties, which can help prevent the spread of oral thrush and promote healing of the affected area.
- Flavonoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce inflammation and combat the fungal infection that causes oral thrush.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make creams for oral thrush.
- Flowers: They are rich in triterpenoids and flavonoids, which have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help combat oral thrush.
- Leaves: They contain anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce swelling and soothe the oral cavity, making them suitable for treating oral thrush.
- Seeds: They have antimicrobial properties, which help combat fungal infections like oral thrush, and also contain antioxidants that promote healing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for oral thrush.
- Harvest calendula flowers in their peak bloom stage when they are fully open and dry.
- Dry the harvested flowers in a warm place with good air circulation for 2-3 weeks.
- Infuse 30 grams of dried flowers in 500 milliliters of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil for 2 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil and mix it with 20 grams of beeswax and 10 grams of shea butter.
- Heat the mixture in a double boiler for 10-15 minutes until it reaches a smooth and creamy consistency.
2. Melissa officinalis
Melissa officinalis, also known as lemon balm, creams helps with oral thrush because of its antifungal and antibacterial properties.
The active compounds in Melissa officinalis, such as rosmarinic acid and citral, have been shown to inhibit the growth of Candida albicans, the fungus responsible for oral thrush.
The cream's soothing and anti-inflammatory properties also help to reduce discomfort and pain associated with oral thrush, allowing the affected area to heal quickly and promoting a healthy oral environment.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis creams that help with oral thrush.
- Linalool: This terpene has antimicrobial properties, helping to combat the fungal growth that causes oral thrush, thereby reducing its severity and duration.
- Limonene: As a terpene, limonene exhibits antifungal activity, which aids in controlling the Candida albicans fungus responsible for oral thrush.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound possesses anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce the discomfort and inflammation associated with oral thrush, while its antimicrobial properties aid in controlling fungal growth.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make creams for oral thrush.
- Leaves: Leaves are the most commonly used part of Melissa officinalis in creams for oral thrush due to their antifungal and antimicrobial properties.
- Stems: Stems of Melissa officinalis are used in creams for oral thrush due to their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help soothe the affected area.
- Flowers: Flowers of Melissa officinalis are used in creams for oral thrush due to their antiseptic and antimicrobial properties, which help prevent infection and promote healing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for oral thrush.
- Harvest melissa officinalis flowers and leaves when they are in full bloom and the plant is in its prime state.
- Dry the harvested melissa officinalis flowers and leaves in a warm and well-ventilated area for 1-2 weeks.
- Infuse the dried melissa officinalis flowers and leaves in a carrier oil such as sweet almond oil at a ratio of 1:5.
- Strain the infused oil and add a preservative such as vitamin e oil to prevent spoilage and extend shelf life.
- Mix the strained oil with a thickening agent such as beeswax and a moisturizing ingredient like shea butter to create a smooth and creamy texture.
3. Matricaria chamomilla
Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, creams helps with oral thrush because of its soothing and antimicrobial properties.
The cream's anti-inflammatory properties reduce swelling and discomfort in the mouth, while its antimicrobial properties combat the fungal infection that causes oral thrush. Additionally, chamomile's calming effects can help alleviate the anxiety and stress that can exacerbate the condition.
This natural approach can provide relief for individuals suffering from oral thrush, promoting a healthy balance of oral flora.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla creams that help with oral thrush.
- Apigenin: A flavonoid present in Matricaria chamomilla, apigenin has been shown to exhibit antifungal properties, which can help combat the fungal growth causing oral thrush.
- Luteolin: A flavonoid with antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, luteolin in Matricaria chamomilla creams may help soothe and heal the oral mucosa affected by oral thrush.
- Α-bisabolol: A sesquiterpene alcohol found in Matricaria chamomilla, α-bisabolol has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can aid in reducing inflammation and fighting off the fungal infection causing oral thrush.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make creams for oral thrush.
- Flowers: They contain anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that help soothe and calm the oral mucosa affected by thrush.
- Leaves: They have antimicrobial properties that help combat fungal infections such as oral thrush.
- Seeds: They contain chamazulene, an anti-inflammatory compound that can help reduce discomfort and pain associated with oral thrush.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for oral thrush.
- Harvest 1 cup of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers, ensure they are clean and free of debris.
- Infuse 2 cups of water in a saucepan with 1 cup of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers for 30 minutes.
- Strain the infused mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a separate container.
- Mix 2 tablespoons of beeswax with 2 tablespoons of coconut oil in a double boiler for 10 minutes.
- Combine the infused mixture with 2 tablespoons of vitamin e oil and 2 tablespoons of the beeswax mixture.
4. Taraxacum officinale
Taraxacum officinale, also known as dandelion, creams helps with oral thrush because of its antifungal and antibacterial properties.
The cream's active compounds, such as taraxasterol and taraxeryl acetate, have been shown to inhibit the growth of Candida albicans, the fungus responsible for oral thrush. Additionally, the cream's anti-inflammatory properties help to soothe and calm the oral mucosa, reducing discomfort and promoting a healthy environment for the growth of beneficial microorganisms.
This natural approach can aid in the management and treatment of oral thrush.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale creams that help with oral thrush.
- Apolyporone: A terpenoid saponin found in Taraxacum officinale, which may help inhibit the growth of Candida albicans, the fungus responsible for oral thrush.
- Taraxasterol: A triterpenoid saponin with antifungal properties, which may help reduce the severity of oral thrush by inhibiting the spread of Candida albicans.
- Taraxasterol acetate: A derivative of taraxasterol with antifungal activity, which may help prevent the formation of biofilms by Candida albicans, thereby reducing the risk of oral thrush.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make creams for oral thrush.
- Leaves: Used due to their anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties, which help combat the fungal infection that causes oral thrush.
- Roots: Utilized for their antiseptic and antibacterial properties, which aid in preventing the growth of Candida, the fungus responsible for oral thrush.
- Seeds: Employed for their potential to exhibit antifungal and anti-inflammatory effects, which contribute to the healing process of oral thrush.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for oral thrush.
- Harvest 1 cup of fresh taraxacum officinale flowers and leaves, ideally in the morning after dew has evaporated.
- Infuse the taraxacum officinale in 2 cups of boiling water for 10-15 minutes to create a tea.
- Strain the tea and combine it with 1 cup of beeswax, 1/2 cup of coconut oil, and 1/4 cup of shea butter.
- Heat the mixture in a double boiler at 160°f for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches a smooth consistency.
- Allow the mixture to cool and thicken completely before transferring it to a clean, sterilized container for storage.
5. Echinacea angustifolia
Echinacea angustifolia, also known as Kansas coneflower, creams helps with oral thrush because of its potent antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties.
The cream's active compounds, such as alkylamides and phenolic acids, work to inhibit the growth of Candida albicans, the fungus that causes oral thrush. Additionally, Echinacea's soothing properties help to reduce inflammation and irritation in the mouth, promoting a healthy environment for the restoration of the natural oral flora.
This natural remedy offers a gentle and effective solution for managing oral thrush.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia creams that help with oral thrush.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have antimicrobial properties, which can help combat the fungal infections that cause oral thrush by inhibiting the growth of Candida albicans.
- Alkylamides: These compounds have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the inflammation and discomfort associated with oral thrush, making it easier for the body to fight off the infection.
- Flavonoids: These compounds have antioxidant properties, which can help protect the mucous membranes in the mouth from oxidative stress caused by the fungal infection, promoting a faster recovery.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make creams for oral thrush.
- Roots: Echinacea angustifolia roots are commonly used due to their high concentration of compounds like alkylamides and caffeic acid, which have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help combat oral thrush.
- Stems: Echinacea angustifolia stems contain essential oils and other bioactive compounds that exhibit antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, making them a suitable choice for treating oral thrush.
- Barks: Echinacea angustifolia barks are used in creams due to their rich content of flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have been shown to possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities that can aid in oral thrush treatment.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for oral thrush.
- Infuse 30g of dried echinacea angustifolia flowers in 500ml of cold-pressed oil in a double boiler for 2 hours.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth into a clean container discarding the solids.
- Mix 100g of beeswax with 50g of shea butter in a double boiler until melted.
- Combine the infused oil with the melted beeswax and shea butter mixture in a 3:1 ratio.
- Pour the cream mixture into small containers and allow it to cool and solidify completely.
6. Gaultheria procumbens
Gaultheria procumbens, also known as wintergreen, creams helps with oral thrush because of its antifungal properties.
The cream's active ingredient, methyl salicylate, has been shown to inhibit the growth of Candida albicans, the fungus responsible for causing oral thrush. The antimicrobial properties of the cream also help to reduce inflammation and soothe the affected area, promoting a healthy environment for the mouth.
Additionally, the cream's anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce pain and discomfort associated with oral thrush.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Gaultheria procumbens creams that help with oral thrush.
- Gentiopicroside: This iridoid glycoside has antifungal properties, which can help combat the fungal infections that cause oral thrush by inhibiting the growth of the Candida albicans fungus.
- Tannins: These polyphenolic compounds have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and prevent the spread of the fungal infection in the mouth.
- Terpenes: Specifically, the sesquiterpene fraction in Gaultheria procumbens has been shown to exhibit antifungal activity, which can help combat oral thrush by inhibiting the growth of the Candida albicans fungus.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of wintergreen used to make creams for oral thrush.
- Leaves: They are used due to their antifungal and antibacterial properties, which can help combat the fungal infection causing oral thrush.
- Roots: The roots are used for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in soothing and healing the affected areas in the mouth.
- Barks: The barks of Gaultheria procumbens are used for their astringent properties, which can help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the mouth.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wintergreen for oral thrush.
- Harvest 100 grams of gaultheria procumbens leaves and stems on a sunny day in late summer.
- Dry the harvested gaultheria procumbens in a dehydrator at 40 degrees celsius for 8 hours.
- Create a decoction by steeping 50 grams of dried gaultheria procumbens in 500 milliliters of water for 20 minutes.
- Mix 25 milliliters of the decoction with 25 grams of beeswax and 25 grams of coconut oil to create a base.
- Add 5 milliliters of vitamin e oil to the base and whip it until it becomes creamy and smooth.
7. Prunella vulgaris
Prunella vulgaris, also known as selfheal, creams helps with oral thrush because of its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The herb contains compounds like ursolic acid and rosmarinic acid that have been shown to inhibit the growth of Candida albicans, the fungus responsible for oral thrush. Additionally, the cream's anti-inflammatory properties help to soothe and calm irritated tissues in the mouth, reducing discomfort and promoting healing.
This makes Prunella vulgaris creams a potential natural remedy for managing oral thrush symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Prunella vulgaris creams that help with oral thrush.
- Rosmarinic acid: An antioxidant phenolic compound that may help reduce the growth of Candida albicans, the fungus responsible for oral thrush, by inhibiting its metabolic pathways and proliferation.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds may possess antimicrobial properties that can help combat Candida albicans and other pathogens that contribute to oral thrush, promoting a healthy oral environment.
- Flavonoids: These compounds, particularly quercetin, may exhibit anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties, which can help soothe and protect the oral mucosa, reducing the severity and duration of oral thrush symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of selfheal used to make creams for oral thrush.
- Leaves: They are rich in antifungal properties that help combat the fungal infection causing oral thrush.
- Roots: The roots of Prunella vulgaris are known for their antiseptic and antifungal properties, which make them suitable for treating oral thrush.
- Stems: The stems of Prunella vulgaris are also used in creams for oral thrush due to their antifungal properties and the ability to soothe the affected area.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic selfheal for oral thrush.
- Harvest 50g of fresh prunella vulgaris leaves and flowers when they are in full bloom.
- Dry the harvested prunella vulgaris mixture in a single layer at 50°c for 2 hours.
- Combine 20g of dried prunella vulgaris with 100ml of distilled water and heat the mixture for 10 minutes.
- Mix 30g of beeswax with 30g of coconut oil and 20ml of the prunella vulgaris infusion at 60°c for 5 minutes.
- Fill a clean container with the herbal cream mixture and let it cool to room temperature before use.
8. Urtica dioica
Urtica dioica, also known as stinging nettle, creams helps with oral thrush because of its antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties.
The cream's active compounds, such as isoorientin and vitexin, have been shown to inhibit the growth of Candida albicans, the fungus responsible for oral thrush.
By reducing inflammation and promoting a healthy oral environment, Urtica dioica cream can help alleviate symptoms of oral thrush, including redness, swelling, and soreness, allowing for faster healing and recovery.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica creams that help with oral thrush.
- Quercetin: This flavonoid acts as an antifungal agent, inhibiting the growth of Candida albicans, the fungus responsible for oral thrush.
- Allicin: As a sulfur-containing compound, allicin exhibits antimicrobial properties, reducing the severity of oral thrush by suppressing the proliferation of Candida albicans.
- Isorhapontigenin: This lignan has been shown to exhibit antifungal activity, preventing the overgrowth of Candida albicans and helping to alleviate the symptoms of oral thrush.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make creams for oral thrush.
- Leaves: Leaves are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of antifungal compounds such as urticine and 5-hydroxytryptamine.
- Roots: Roots are used for their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help in soothing and healing oral thrush.
- Stems: Stems are used for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in reducing the severity of oral thrush symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for oral thrush.
- Harvest 1-2 bunches of fresh urtica dioica leaves and stems for a batch of herbal cream.
- Dry the harvested urtica dioica in a single layer at room temperature for 7-10 days.
- Grind 30 grams of dried urtica dioica into a fine powder using a coffee grinder.
- Mix the powder with 100 grams of coconut oil and 20 grams of beeswax in a double boiler.
- Stir the mixture until it's fully melted and cooled slightly before pouring into jars for storage.
9. Achillea millefolium
Achillea millefolium, also known as yarrow, creams helps with oral thrush because of its antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties.
The cream's active compounds, such as sesquiterpene lactones, have been shown to inhibit the growth of Candida albicans, the fungus responsible for oral thrush. Additionally, yarrow's astringent and antiseptic properties help reduce inflammation and prevent the spread of infection, promoting a healthy oral environment and supporting the body's natural healing process.
This natural remedy offers a gentle and effective solution for treating oral thrush.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Achillea millefolium creams that help with oral thrush.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce the growth of Candida albicans, the fungus responsible for oral thrush, and alleviate symptoms like redness and swelling.
- Flavonoids: These compounds exhibit antifungal and antioxidant activities, which help to inhibit the growth of Candida albicans, reduce oxidative stress, and promote healing in the oral cavity.
- Tricin: This phenolic compound has been shown to possess antifungal properties, which help to inhibit the growth of Candida albicans and reduce the severity of oral thrush symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of yarrow used to make creams for oral thrush.
- Leaves: They contain compounds like sesquiterpene lactones, which have antifungal properties to help combat oral thrush.
- Flowers: They contain essential oils, including camphor and pinene, which exhibit antifungal properties to aid in treating oral thrush.
- Roots: They contain sesquiterpene lactones and other compounds with antimicrobial properties, which can help in treating oral thrush.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yarrow for oral thrush.
- Harvest the dried achillea millefolium flowers and leaves in quantities of 20 grams.
- Steep the plant material in a carrier oil such as sweet almond oil for 2 hours.
- Strain the oil mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container to remove solids.
- Add a preservative such as vitamin e oil to the oil mixture in a dosage of 5 milliliters.
- Whip the cream with a hand mixer until it reaches the desired consistency in about 5 minutes.
10. Symphytum officinale
Symphytum officinale, also known as comfrey, creams helps with oral thrush because of its anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties.
The cream's active compounds, such as allantoin and rosmarinic acid, help to soothe and calm irritated mucous membranes in the mouth and throat.
Additionally, comfrey's natural antibacterial properties can help to combat the fungal overgrowth that causes oral thrush, promoting a healthy balance of flora in the oral cavity and aiding in the healing of affected areas.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Symphytum officinale creams that help with oral thrush.
- Allantoin: Helps with oral thrush by promoting wound healing and tissue repair, which can aid in reducing fungal infections and soothing irritated mucous membranes.
- Saponins: Assist in combating oral thrush by exhibiting antifungal and antimicrobial properties, which can help inhibit the growth of Candida albicans and other pathogenic microorganisms.
- Iridoid glycosides: Contribute to the treatment of oral thrush by demonstrating antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce fungal colonization and alleviate symptoms such as oral discomfort and inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of comfrey used to make creams for oral thrush.
- Leaves: The leaves are rich in allantoin, a compound with anti-inflammatory and soothing properties that can help to alleviate the discomfort associated with oral thrush.
- Roots: The roots of Symphytum officinale contain allantoin and other compounds that can help to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the mouth.
- Flowers: The flowers of Symphytum officinale also contain allantoin, which can help to soothe and calm the mucous membranes in the mouth, making them a useful addition to creams for oral thrush.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic comfrey for oral thrush.
- Harvest 1 part of dried symphytum officinale root and 1 part of dried symphytum officinale leaves.
- Infuse 1 part of dried symphytum officinale root in 2 parts of cold-pressed oil for 2 weeks.
- Combine the infused oil with 1 part of beeswax and heat the mixture in a double boiler at 180-190 degrees fahrenheit.
- Add 0.5 parts of distilled water to the mixture and stir until the beeswax is fully incorporated.
- Pour the mixture into a glass container and let it cool and solidify for 2 hours.
What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for oral thrush?
The best combination of herbal creams that help with oral thrush is a blend of tea tree oil, neem, and myrrh creams.
Tea tree oil's antifungal properties combat the fungus causing thrush, while neem's antibacterial properties prevent secondary infections. Myrrh's anti-inflammatory properties soothe and calm the affected areas, promoting faster healing. Applying these creams together in moderation can help alleviate oral thrush symptoms, such as redness, irritation, and white patches.
This combination can be applied topically to the affected areas for optimal results.
What ailments similar to oral thrush are treated with herbal creams?
Ailments similar to oral thrush that are treated with herbal creams are fungal infections such as vaginal yeast infections, diaper rash, and athlete's foot.
These conditions are caused by overgrowth of fungi on the skin or mucous membranes, and herbal creams containing ingredients like tea tree oil, aloe vera, and neem oil can help to control the growth of fungi and soothe the affected area.