10 Best Herbal Teas For Oral Thrush

Herbal teas for oral thrush are natural remedies that help alleviate symptoms of the fungal infection.

They work by reducing inflammation, fighting off the fungal infection, and soothing the affected areas. Examples of herbal teas that help with oral thrush include peppermint, sage, and echinacea.

Drinking these teas can improve lives by reducing discomfort, promoting healing, and providing relief from the pain and inflammation associated with oral thrush.

The following article describes in detail the most important teas for oral thrush, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Echinacea purpurea

Echinacea purpurea, also known as purple coneflower, teas helps with oral thrush because of its antimicrobial properties, which target the fungal infection causing the condition.

The tea's bioactive compounds, such as alkylamides and caffeic acid, work synergistically to inhibit the growth of Candida albicans, the fungus responsible for oral thrush. Additionally, Echinacea purpurea's anti-inflammatory properties help reduce inflammation and discomfort associated with oral thrush, promoting a speedy recovery and alleviating symptoms.

Regular consumption may also boost the immune system.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea teas that help with oral thrush.

• Iridoids: Iridoids, particularly echinacoside, exhibit antimicrobial properties, which can help combat the fungal growth causing oral thrush.
• Flavonoids: Isoquercitrin has shown potential in suppressing the growth of Candida albicans, the fungus responsible for oral thrush.
• Caffeic acid: Caffeic acid, a phenolic compound found in Echinacea purpurea, has demonstrated antifungal activity, which can aid in reducing the severity of oral thrush.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make teas for oral thrush.

• Roots: They contain compounds like echinacosides that have antimicrobial properties.
• Leaves: They are rich in flavonoids, which may help reduce inflammation and combat fungal infections.
• Flowers: They have antifungal and antibacterial properties, which can aid in treating oral thrush.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for oral thrush.

1. Gather 2-4 grams of dried echinacea purpurea flowers and roots from a trusted source.
2. Steep the dried echinacea mixture in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-10 minutes.
3. Strain the echinacea infused liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup.
4. Add honey or lemon to taste if desired to enhance the flavor and aroma.
5. Allow the tea to cool for 2-5 minutes before serving and consuming immediately.

2. Calendula officinalis

Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, teas helps with oral thrush because of its potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

The tea's bioactive compounds, such as triterpenoids and phenolic acids, have been shown to inhibit the growth of Candida albicans, the fungus responsible for oral thrush.

Additionally, Calendula's soothing properties can help reduce inflammation and discomfort in the mouth, promoting a healthy environment for the growth of beneficial bacteria and aiding in the recovery from oral thrush.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis teas that help with oral thrush.

• Sesquiterpene lactones: These compounds have antifungal properties, which can help inhibit the growth of Candida albicans, the fungus responsible for oral thrush.
• Flavonoids: As antioxidants, flavonoids can help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the oral cavity, creating an environment less conducive to fungal growth.
• Triterpenoids: These compounds have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help combat the underlying infection and reduce symptoms associated with oral thrush.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make teas for oral thrush.

• Flowers: They are used due to their antifungal and antibacterial properties that help combat fungal infections such as oral thrush.
• Leaves: They are used as they contain compounds that have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in soothing oral thrush symptoms.
• Stems: They are used because they contain flavonoids and other compounds that exhibit antifungal and antibacterial activities, helping to treat oral thrush.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for oral thrush.

1. Harvest fresh calendula officinalis flowers in the morning after the dew has evaporated to ensure optimal potency.
2. Rinse the calendula flowers gently with cold water to remove dirt and debris from the flowers.
3. Combine 1 teaspoon of dried calendula flowers or 2 teaspoons of fresh flowers with 1 cup of boiling water.
4. Steep the mixture for 5 to 7 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse into the water.
5. Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the flowers and discard the solids.

3. Melissa officinalis

Melissa officinalis, also known as lemon balm, teas helps with oral thrush because of its antimicrobial and antifungal properties.

The active compounds present in Melissa officinalis, such as rosmarinic acid and melissic acid, have been shown to inhibit the growth of Candida albicans, the fungus responsible for oral thrush. Drinking Melissa officinalis tea may help soothe and calm the oral mucosa, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with the condition.

Its anti-inflammatory properties may also aid in healing the affected area.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis teas that help with oral thrush.

• Rosmarinic acid: As a phenolic compound, rosmarinic acid exhibits antimicrobial properties, which help combat the fungal growth responsible for oral thrush.
• Linalool: This terpene has been shown to possess antifungal properties, which aid in inhibiting the growth of Candida albicans, the primary cause of oral thrush.
• Melissic acid: A triterpenoid compound found in Melissa officinalis, melissic acid displays antibacterial and antifungal activities, contributing to the treatment of oral thrush by suppressing the growth of pathogenic microorganisms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make teas for oral thrush.

• Leaves: They are the most commonly used part, as they contain the highest concentration of melissa oil, which has antimicrobial and antifungal properties that help combat oral thrush.
• Flowers: The flowers of Melissa officinalis are also used to make teas for oral thrush, as they contain flavonoids and terpenes that have antifungal and antibacterial properties.
• Stems: Some herbal teas use the stems of Melissa officinalis to treat oral thrush, as they also contain antimicrobial compounds that help alleviate symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for oral thrush.

1. Harvest 1/4 cup of fresh melissa leaves or 1 teaspoon of dried melissa leaves in the morning.
2. Dry the harvested melissa leaves in a warm place for 2 hours or until they are crisp.
3. Steep 1 teaspoon of dried melissa leaves in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 minutes.
4. Strain the tea and discard the melissa leaves before serving.
5. Store any leftover melissa tea in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

4. Mentha x piperita

Mentha x piperita, also known as peppermint, teas helps with oral thrush because of its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

The menthol content in peppermint tea has been shown to inhibit the growth of Candida albicans, the fungus responsible for oral thrush. Additionally, peppermint tea's soothing and calming effects can help reduce inflammation and discomfort in the mouth, providing relief from symptoms such as soreness, redness, and white patches.

This natural remedy can help alleviate the discomfort associated with oral thrush.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita teas that help with oral thrush.

• Menthol: Helps to reduce the growth of Candida albicans, the fungus that causes oral thrush, by disrupting its cell membrane and inhibiting its enzyme activity.
• Caryophyllene: Exhibits antifungal properties, suppressing the growth of Candida albicans and other pathogens that can contribute to oral thrush.
• Rosmarinic acid: Shows antifungal and antibacterial activity, helping to reduce the severity of oral thrush by inhibiting the growth of Candida albicans and other microorganisms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make teas for oral thrush.

• Leaves: Leaves are the most commonly used part of Mentha x piperita to make teas for oral thrush due to their antifungal and antibacterial properties that help combat fungal infections.
• Roots: Roots are also used to make teas for oral thrush as they contain menthol and menthone, which have antimicrobial properties that can aid in soothing and healing oral lesions.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for oral thrush.

1. Harvest fresh leaves and flowers of mentha x piperita in the morning for optimal flavor.
2. Rinse the harvested plant material with cold water to remove dirt and debris quickly.
3. Chop the plant material into small pieces to increase surface area for better infusion.
4. Steep 1-2 teaspoons of chopped plant material in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
5. Strain the tea and discard the solids to enjoy the herbal tea immediately.

5. Sambucus nigra

Sambucus nigra, also known as elder, teas helps with oral thrush because of its antifungal properties.

The tea contains compounds like flavonoids and phenolic acids that have been shown to exhibit potent antifungal activity against Candida albicans, the fungus responsible for oral thrush. Additionally, the tea's anti-inflammatory properties may help soothe oral lesions and promote healing, making it a potential natural remedy for managing the symptoms of oral thrush.

Its antibacterial properties also help prevent secondary infections.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sambucus nigra teas that help with oral thrush.

• Flavonoids: These plant compounds have antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce the growth of Candida albicans, the fungus responsible for oral thrush.
• Phenolic acids: These compounds have been shown to exhibit antifungal and antibacterial activities, which can aid in combating oral infections like thrush.
• Triterpenes: Some triterpenes found in Sambucus nigra, such as ursolic acid, have been demonstrated to possess antifungal properties, which can help alleviate oral thrush symptoms.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of elder used to make teas for oral thrush.

• Flowers: The flowers are the most commonly used part to make teas for oral thrush due to their antifungal properties that help combat the infection.
• Leaves: The leaves of Sambucus nigra contain antifungal and antimicrobial compounds that help alleviate symptoms of oral thrush.
• Fruits: The fruits of Sambucus nigra have antifungal properties that help reduce the severity and duration of oral thrush symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic elder for oral thrush.

1. Harvest 1-2 bunches of elderberry flowers and berries from a trusted source in the morning.
2. Clean and dry the elderberry flowers and berries thoroughly by spreading them out in the sun.
3. Combine 1 cup of dried elderberry flowers and berries with 1 liter of boiling water in a large pot.
4. Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes then strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve.
5. Store the tea in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for later use.

6. Taraxacum officinale

Taraxacum officinale, also known as dandelion, teas helps with oral thrush because of its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

The plant's compounds, such as sesquiterpene lactones and polyacetylenes, exhibit potent antifungal activity that can help combat Candida albicans, the primary causative agent of oral thrush.

Furthermore, the tea's soothing and demulcent properties can aid in reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with oral thrush, promoting a healthy oral environment and facilitating the recovery process.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale teas that help with oral thrush.

• Flavonoids: These polyphenolic compounds help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the oral cavity, thereby creating an environment less conducive to fungal growth.
• Taraxasterol: This triterpenoid saponin has been shown to exhibit antifungal activity against Candida species, the primary cause of oral thrush, by inhibiting fungal cell membrane integrity and function.
• Luteolin: This flavonoid has demonstrated antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help combat oral thrush by reducing inflammation and inhibiting the growth of Candida in the oral cavity.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make teas for oral thrush.

• Leaves: They are used for their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help combat fungal infections like oral thrush.
• Flowers: They contain compounds that exhibit antimicrobial and antifungal activities, making them effective in treating oral thrush.
• Roots: They have been traditionally used to treat various health issues, including fungal infections, due to their antifungal properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for oral thrush.

1. Gather 1/2 cup of fresh taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers and clean them thoroughly with cold water.
2. Heat 2 cups of water in a saucepan over medium heat for about 5 minutes.
3. Combine the cleaned taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers with the heated water in a large mug.
4. Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the herbal properties to infuse into the water.
5. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup and serve the taraxacum officinale tea hot.

7. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, teas helps with oral thrush because it exhibits antimicrobial properties that inhibit the growth of Candida albicans, the fungus responsible for the infection.

The bioactive compounds present in licorice root, particularly glycyrrhizin, have been shown to suppress the proliferation of Candida, thereby reducing the severity of oral thrush symptoms.

Additionally, licorice root tea has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe the affected areas, promoting a faster recovery.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra teas that help with oral thrush.

• Licorice saponins: These saponins exhibit antimicrobial properties, helping to control the growth of Candida albicans, the fungus responsible for oral thrush.
• Flavonoids: These flavonoids have been shown to possess antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate symptoms and reduce the risk of infection.
• Terpenoids: The terpenoids present in Glycyrrhiza glabra may contribute to its antifungal and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to soothe and protect the mucous membranes in the mouth.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make teas for oral thrush.

• Roots: The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra are commonly used to make teas for oral thrush because they contain glycyrrhizin, a compound that has antimicrobial properties.
• Leaves: The leaves of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make teas for oral thrush because they possess anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties that help soothe and heal oral mucosa.
• Flowers: The flowers of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make teas for oral thrush because they contain flavonoids and other compounds that exhibit antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for oral thrush.

1. Harvest 2-3 ounces of fresh or dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots or 1 teaspoon of dried root powder.
2. Rinse the roots or powder with cold water to remove any impurities or debris.
3. Steep 1 teaspoon of dried root powder or 2-3 ounces of fresh roots in 8 ounces of boiling water.
4. Reduce heat to a simmer and let the mixture steep for 5-10 minutes or until the desired strength.
5. Strain the tea and discard the solids before serving the herbal tea warm or at room temperature.

8. Cymbopogon citratus

Cymbopogon citratus, also known as lemongrass, teas helps with oral thrush because of its antimicrobial properties, which effectively combat fungal infections.

The tea's high concentration of citral and geraniol compounds inhibits the growth of Candida albicans, the fungus responsible for oral thrush. Additionally, lemongrass tea's anti-inflammatory properties soothe and calm the affected areas, promoting a healthy environment for the recovery of oral tissues.

Regular consumption of lemongrass tea may aid in preventing the recurrence of oral thrush.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cymbopogon citratus teas that help with oral thrush.

• Limonene: This terpene has antimicrobial properties, which can help eliminate Candida albicans, the fungus responsible for oral thrush.
• Geraniol: This terpene exhibits antifungal and antibacterial properties, making it effective in reducing the growth of Candida albicans and other pathogens that cause oral thrush.
• Citronal: This phenolic compound has antiseptic and antimicrobial properties, which can aid in the treatment of oral thrush by reducing inflammation and preventing the growth of Candida albicans.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of lemongrass used to make teas for oral thrush.

• Leaves: The leaves are commonly used to make teas due to their high concentration of citral, a natural antifungal agent that helps combat oral thrush.
• Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes, also known as stems, are used to make teas as they contain citral and other essential oils with antimicrobial properties that can help soothe and heal oral thrush lesions.
• Leaves: The leaves are also used to make teas as they are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the mouth.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemongrass for oral thrush.

1. Harvest fresh cymbopogon citratus leaves in the morning after the dew has evaporated to ensure optimal flavor.
2. Rinse the cymbopogon citratus leaves with cold water to remove dirt and debris from the leaves.
3. Combine 2 teaspoons of fresh cymbopogon citratus leaves with 1 cup of boiling water to create a tea base.
4. Steep the cymbopogon citratus mixture for 5-7 minutes to allow the flavors and oils to infuse into the water.
5. Strain the tea and serve immediately or store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours in an airtight container.

9. Origanum vulgare

Origanum vulgare, also known as wild marjoram, teas helps with oral thrush because of its antifungal properties, particularly against Candida albicans, the fungus responsible for the condition.

The tea's bioactive compounds, such as carvacrol and thymol, exhibit antimicrobial and antiseptic activities, effectively combating the infection. Additionally, Origanum vulgare tea has anti-inflammatory properties, reducing redness and discomfort associated with oral thrush, promoting a healthy oral environment and facilitating the healing process.

This natural remedy offers a promising alternative for managing oral thrush.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Origanum vulgare teas that help with oral thrush.

• Carvacrol: This phenolic compound has antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce the growth of Candida albicans, the fungus responsible for oral thrush.
• Thymol: This terpene also exhibits antimicrobial and antifungal properties, making it effective in inhibiting the proliferation of Candida albicans and alleviating oral thrush symptoms.
• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the severity of oral thrush symptoms and promote a healthy oral environment.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of wild marjoram used to make teas for oral thrush.

• Leaves: The antibacterial and antifungal properties of Origanum vulgare leaves help combat the fungal infection causing oral thrush.
• Flowers: The antiseptic and antifungal properties in Origanum vulgare flowers help soothe and heal the affected areas of the mouth.
• Stems: The antimicrobial properties of Origanum vulgare stems help prevent the spread of the fungal infection and promote healing in the mouth.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wild marjoram for oral thrush.

1. Gather 2-3 teaspoons of dried origanum vulgare leaves and flowers for every cup of tea.
2. Steep the dried herbs in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
3. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a cup.
4. Discard the solids and add honey or sugar to taste if desired.
5. Allow the tea to cool completely before refrigerating it for up to 2 days.

10. Thymus serpyllum

Thymus serpyllum, also known as creeping thyme, teas helps with oral thrush because of its antimicrobial properties, which combat the fungal infection causing the condition.

The tea's antifungal compounds, such as thymol and carvacrol, target and eliminate Candida albicans, the fungus responsible for oral thrush. By reducing fungal growth, Thymus serpyllum tea promotes a healthy oral environment, allowing the natural balance of microorganisms in the mouth to be restored.

This leads to improved oral health and a reduced risk of recurrence.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Thymus serpyllum teas that help with oral thrush.

• Thymol: Thymol has antifungal properties that help combat Candida albicans, the fungus responsible for oral thrush, by inhibiting its growth and proliferation.
• Carvacrol: Carvacrol, a phenolic compound, exhibits antiseptic and antifungal activities that help reduce the incidence of oral thrush by inhibiting the adhesion of Candida albicans to oral mucosa and reducing its virulence.
• Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid, a polyphenolic compound, possesses antioxidant and antifungal properties that help alleviate oral thrush by reducing oxidative stress, modulating the immune response, and inhibiting the growth of Candida albicans.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of creeping thyme used to make teas for oral thrush.

• Leaves: Thymus serpyllum leaves are used to make teas for oral thrush due to their antimicrobial and antifungal properties.
• Flowers: Thymus serpyllum flowers are used to make teas for oral thrush due to their antiseptic and antibacterial properties.
• Roots: Thymus serpyllum roots are used to make teas for oral thrush due to their antifungal and antibacterial properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic creeping thyme for oral thrush.

1. Gather 1 tablespoon of dried thymus serpyllum flowers and 1 cup of boiling water for tea.
2. Steep the thymus serpyllum flowers in boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release their active compounds.
3. Strain the tea using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the solids from the liquid.
4. Add honey or sugar to taste if desired to sweeten the herbal tea.
5. Serve the thymus serpyllum tea immediately and consume within 1-2 hours for optimal flavor and potency.

What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for oral thrush?

The best combination of herbal teas that help with oral thrush is a blend of Sage, Peppermint, and Echinacea.

Sage tea has antibacterial properties that can help combat fungal infections, while Peppermint tea can soothe the discomfort and inflammation associated with oral thrush. Echinacea, rich in antioxidants, can boost the immune system to fight off the infection. Drinking a combination of these teas can help alleviate symptoms and promote healing.

However, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

What ailments similar to oral thrush are treated with herbal teas?

Ailments similar to oral thrush that are treated with herbal teas are various.

Some examples include mouth sores, gum inflammation, and bad breath. Certain herbs like sage, peppermint, and chamomile have anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe irritated tissues and reduce inflammation in the mouth. Additionally, herbs like goldenseal and echinacea have antimicrobial properties that can combat oral infections.

Drinking herbal teas made from these herbs may provide relief from these ailments.