10 Best Herbal Creams For Fungal Infection

Herbal creams for fungal infection are topical treatments derived from natural herbs that help combat fungal infections such as athlete's foot and ringworm.

They work by reducing inflammation, preventing fungal growth, and promoting a healthy environment for skin healing. Examples include tea tree oil, aloe vera, and neem creams, which have antifungal properties.

These creams improve lives by providing a natural, chemical-free alternative to traditional treatments, reducing discomfort, and promoting confidence in individuals with fungal infections.

The following article describes in detail the most important creams for fungal infection, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Melaleuca alternifolia

Melaleuca alternifolia, also known as tea tree, creams helps with fungal infection because of its potent antimicrobial properties.

The active compound, terpinen-4-ol, has been shown to inhibit the growth of fungi, including those that cause conditions such as athlete's foot, ringworm, and nail fungus. By applying tea tree creams directly to affected areas, the antifungal properties help to reduce inflammation, soothe irritation, and promote a healthy environment for the skin to recover from fungal infections.

This natural remedy offers a safe and effective solution for fungal infections.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melaleuca alternifolia creams that help with fungal infection.

• Cineole: This terpene has antimicrobial properties that inhibit the growth of fungi, reducing the severity of fungal infections.
• Terpinen-4-ol: This monoterpene is known for its antifungal properties, which disrupt the cell membrane of fungal cells, ultimately leading to the death of fungal pathogens.
• Limonene: This terpene exhibits antimicrobial and antifungal activities, preventing the proliferation of fungal cells and promoting the healing of affected skin areas.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of tea tree used to make creams for fungal infection.

• Leaves: Due to their high content of tea tree oil, which has antifungal properties that help combat fungal infections.
• Seeds: As they are a source of oil, which has antimicrobial properties that aid in treating fungal infections.
• (i am only able to provide 2 elements as per your request, however, it's worth noting) barks: Not commonly used, but barks are also known to have antimicrobial properties that can aid in treating fungal infections.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea tree for fungal infection.

1. Harvest 20 fresh leaves of melaleuca alternifolia by hand to ensure their potency and quality.
2. Dry the leaves in a single layer at room temperature for 2-3 days to prevent spoilage.
3. Infuse 10g of dried leaves in 100ml of coconut oil in a double boiler for 3 hours.
4. Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth or fine mesh into a clean glass container.
5. Whip 20g of beeswax with the infused oil in a blender until it reaches a smooth creamy consistency.

2. Allium sativum

Allium sativum, also known as garlic, creams helps with fungal infection because of its potent antifungal properties.

The active compounds in garlic, such as allicin, have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungal cells and reduce inflammation. The antiseptic properties of garlic also help to prevent the spread of infection, promoting a healthy environment for the body to heal.

As a result, topical application of garlic creams can effectively combat fungal infections, providing relief and promoting faster recovery.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Allium sativum creams that help with fungal infection.

• S-allyl cysteine sulfoxide: This constituent has been shown to inhibit fungal growth and exhibit antifungal activity by disrupting the fungal cell membrane and inhibiting the synthesis of ergosterol, an essential component of the fungal cell wall.
• Quercetin: Quercetin, a flavonoid phenolic compound, has been found to possess antifungal properties, inhibiting the growth of various fungal species by interfering with their cell membrane and disrupting their metabolism.
• Allicin: Allicin, a sulfur-containing compound, exhibits potent antifungal activity by damaging the fungal cell membrane, inhibiting the synthesis of ergosterol, and inducing oxidative stress in fungal cells, ultimately leading to their death.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of garlic used to make creams for fungal infection.

• Rhyzomes: Used due to their high concentration of active compounds like allicin, which has antifungal properties.
• Leaves: Used due to their content of sulfur compounds that have antimicrobial properties, helping to combat fungal infections.
• Seeds: Used due to their richness in oil and other compounds that may have antifungal and anti-inflammatory effects.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic garlic for fungal infection.

1. Infuse dried allium sativum roots in a carrier oil such as sweet almond oil for 4 to 6 weeks.
2. Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter to remove the roots.
3. Mix the strained oil with a thickening agent such as beeswax in a double boiler.
4. Add a preservative and a natural emulsifier to the mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Pour the cream into a clean container and let it cool and solidify before use.

3. Thymus vulgaris

Thymus vulgaris, also known as thyme, creams helps with fungal infection because of its antimicrobial and antifungal properties.

The active compounds in thyme, such as carvacrol and thymol, have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungi and other microorganisms. These compounds work by disrupting the cell membranes of the fungi, ultimately leading to their death.

As a result, thyme creams can help to reduce the severity and duration of fungal infections, making it a popular natural remedy for conditions such as athlete's foot and ringworm.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Thymus vulgaris creams that help with fungal infection.

• Thymol: Thymol has antifungal properties that inhibit the growth of fungal cells, helping to reduce the severity of fungal infections.
• Carvacrol: Carvacrol exhibits potent antifungal activity by disrupting the cell membrane of fungal cells, ultimately leading to their death and the elimination of the infection.
• Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid has been shown to have antifungal and antibacterial properties, helping to prevent the spread of fungal infections and promote a healthy environment for healing.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make creams for fungal infection.

• Leaves: Thymus vulgaris leaves are commonly used to make creams for fungal infections due to their high concentration of thymol, a natural antifungal agent.
• Roots: Thymus vulgaris roots are used to create creams for fungal infections because they contain sesquiterpenes, which exhibit antifungal properties.
• Stems: Thymus vulgaris stems are used in creams for fungal infections due to their content of thymol and other essential oils that have antifungal properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme for fungal infection.

1. Harvest 1 cup of fresh thymus vulgaris leaves and flowers at dawn when they are at their highest concentration.
2. Combine 1 cup of the harvested leaves and flowers with 1 cup of distilled water in a saucepan.
3. Steep the mixture for 10 minutes over low heat to release the essential oils and active compounds.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl to remove the solids.
5. Mix 1/2 cup of shea butter and 1/4 cup of coconut oil with the strained liquid to create a smooth cream.

4. Origanum vulgare

Origanum vulgare, also known as wild marjoram, creams helps with fungal infection because it contains antimicrobial and antifungal properties.

The essential oils present in the herb, such as carvacrol and thymol, have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungal cells. These compounds work by disrupting the fungal cell membrane and preventing the formation of new fungal cells.

As a result, Origanum vulgare creams can help to reduce the severity and duration of fungal infections, promoting a faster recovery and preventing further infection.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Origanum vulgare creams that help with fungal infection.

• Thymol: Thymol has antifungal properties, helping to inhibit the growth and spread of fungal infections by disrupting cell membranes and preventing the synthesis of essential fungal compounds.
• Carvacrol: Carvacrol has potent antimicrobial activity, including antifungal effects, which help to reduce fungal load and prevent the colonization of fungal pathogens in the affected area.
• Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid has antioxidant and antifungal properties, which help to neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, thereby creating an unfavorable environment for fungal growth and promoting the healing of infected tissues.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of wild marjoram used to make creams for fungal infection.

• Leaves: The leaves of Origanum vulgare are commonly used due to their antifungal and antibacterial properties, which help combat fungal infections.
• Stems: The stems of Origanum vulgare are also used as they contain essential oils that possess antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, promoting healing and reducing symptoms.
• Roots: The roots of Origanum vulgare are used due to their rich content of phenolic compounds, which exhibit antifungal and antimicrobial properties, helping to prevent the growth of fungi.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wild marjoram for fungal infection.

1. Harvest origanum vulgare leaves in late summer when the plant is in full bloom.
2. Dry the leaves in a warm place for two weeks or use a dehydrator at 95°f for 12 hours.
3. Infuse the dried origanum vulgare leaves in a carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil for 6 to 8 weeks.
4. Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth into a clean container and discard the solids.
5. Mix the infused oil with a thickening agent such as beeswax and vitamin e oil in a double boiler at 180°f for 10 minutes.

5. Curcuma longa

Curcuma longa, also known as turmeric, creams helps with fungal infection because of its potent antifungal properties.

The active compound curcumin in turmeric has been shown to inhibit the growth of various fungi, including Candida and Aspergillus. This natural remedy has been traditionally used to treat skin infections such as ringworm, athlete's foot, and nail fungus. The anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of turmeric creams also help to soothe and heal infected skin, making it an effective alternative to conventional treatments.

Its natural antifungal properties help combat fungal infections.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa creams that help with fungal infection.

• Curcumin: This polyphenolic compound has potent antifungal activity, inhibiting the growth of fungi by interfering with their cell membrane and cell wall structures.
• Demethoxycurcumin: A derivative of curcumin, DMC exhibits strong antifungal properties, suppressing the fungal growth by disrupting the cell membrane and inhibiting the production of fungal enzymes.
• Tumerone: A sesquiterpene present in Curcuma longa, tumerone has been shown to exhibit antifungal activity by inhibiting the synthesis of ergosterol, an essential component of fungal cell membranes.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make creams for fungal infection.

• Rhyzomes: They are used to make creams due to their high content of curcumin, a compound with potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help combat fungal infections.
• Leaves: The leaves of Curcuma longa are used in creams to take advantage of their antifungal and antibacterial properties, which aid in healing and preventing the spread of fungal infections.
• Roots: The roots of Curcuma longa are used in creams to utilize their antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, which help to reduce inflammation and combat fungal infections effectively.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for fungal infection.

1. Grind 500 grams of dried curcuma longa rhizomes into a fine powder using a coffee grinder.
2. Infuse 250 milliliters of coconut oil in a double boiler with 500 grams of the powder for 4 hours.
3. Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth into a heat-resistant container discarding the solids.
4. Add 100 grams of beeswax and 50 grams of shea butter to the oil and melt at 180 degrees fahrenheit.
5. Whip the mixture with a hand mixer until it thickens and emulsifies into a smooth cream.

6. Calendula officinalis

Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, creams helps with fungal infection because of its antimicrobial and antifungal properties.

The active compounds in Calendula, such as triterpenoids and carotenoids, have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungal cells, reducing the severity of infections. Additionally, Calendula's anti-inflammatory properties help to soothe and calm the affected skin, promoting a healthy environment for the skin to recover from fungal infections.

This makes Calendula creams a popular natural remedy for treating fungal infections.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis creams that help with fungal infection.

• Nerolidol: This sesquiterpene helps combat fungal infections by inhibiting the growth of fungal cells and reducing the production of fungal enzymes, thereby hindering the progression of the infection.
• Carotenoids: These pigments exhibit antifungal properties by disrupting the cell membrane of fungal cells, ultimately leading to cell death and reduced fungal growth.
• Triterpenes: These compounds have been shown to exhibit antifungal activity by interfering with the cell membrane of fungal cells, inhibiting the biosynthesis of ergosterol (a critical component of fungal cell membranes), and thus reducing fungal growth and proliferation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make creams for fungal infection.

• Flowers: They are used to make creams for fungal infections due to their high content of flavonoids, terpenoids, and carotenoids, which have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Leaves: They are used due to their antifungal properties, which can help combat fungal infections.
• Seeds: They are used in some cases, as they contain compounds like triterpenoids and flavonoids that may contribute to the antimicrobial activity of the cream.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for fungal infection.

1. Harvest 20-30% of calendula officinalis flowers from the plant when in full bloom to ensure potency.
2. Dry the harvested flowers in a single layer at 35-40°c for 2-3 hours to preserve their properties.
3. Grind 100g of dried flowers into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 10 minutes.
4. Combine 50g of the powder with 150g of a base ingredient such as coconut oil in a double boiler.
5. Allow the mixture to cool and thicken at room temperature for 30-60 minutes before transferring to a container.

7. Echinacea angustifolia

Echinacea angustifolia, also known as Kansas coneflower, creams helps with fungal infection because of its potent antimicrobial properties.

The cream's active compounds, such as alkylamides and caffeic acid derivatives, have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungal pathogens. This makes it an effective treatment for skin infections like ringworm, athlete's foot, and other fungal-related conditions.

The cream's ability to soothe and calm the skin also promotes a healthy environment for the body to fight off the infection, reducing inflammation and promoting faster healing.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia creams that help with fungal infection.

• Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have been shown to exhibit antifungal properties, helping to inhibit the growth of fungal pathogens and prevent the spread of infection.
• Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, such as rosmarinic acid and caffeic acid, have been found to possess antifungal activity, which can help to combat fungal infections by disrupting fungal cell membranes and preventing the production of fungal toxins.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids, including kaempferol and quercetin, have been reported to exhibit antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce inflammation, promote wound healing, and prevent the re-occurrence of fungal infections.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make creams for fungal infection.

• Roots: The roots are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of alkaloids and phenolic compounds, which exhibit antifungal properties.
• Flowers: The flowers are used for their immunomodulatory and antifungal properties, which help in treating fungal infections by enhancing the body's immune response.
• Leaves: The leaves are also used due to their antifungal properties, which help in inhibiting the growth of fungal pathogens and promoting wound healing.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for fungal infection.

1. Harvest echinacea angustifolia roots from mature plants in autumn when the first frost has occurred.
2. Dry the harvested roots in a warm place with good airflow for 2-3 weeks.
3. Grind 20 grams of dried echinacea angustifolia root into a fine powder using a coffee grinder.
4. Mix 5 grams of the ground powder with 50 grams of sweet almond oil in a heatproof bowl.
5. Heat the mixture in a double boiler at 160°f for 30 minutes to create the cream.

8. Aloe vera

Aloe vera, also known as aloe, creams helps with fungal infection because of its antimicrobial and antifungal properties.

The gel extracted from the aloe plant contains compounds like aloin and aloe-emodin, which have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungal pathogens. Aloe vera creams have been traditionally used to treat skin conditions such as ringworm, athlete's foot, and fungal infections.

The natural antibacterial and antifungal properties of aloe vera help to soothe and heal the skin, reducing inflammation and promoting a healthy recovery from fungal infections.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera creams that help with fungal infection.

• Aloe-emodin: This anthraquinone compound has been shown to exhibit antifungal properties by inhibiting the growth of fungal cells and disrupting their cell membranes.
• Saponins: These glycosides have been found to possess antifungal activity by binding to fungal cell membranes and causing cell lysis, ultimately leading to the death of fungal cells.
• Acemannan: This polysaccharide has been demonstrated to stimulate the immune system and increase the production of interferon, a protein that helps to combat fungal infections by inhibiting their growth and replication.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make creams for fungal infection.

• Leaves: Aloe vera gel, extracted from the leaves, is commonly used in creams due to its soothing and antifungal properties.
• Leaves: Aloe vera latex, also obtained from the leaves, is used in creams for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Leaves: Aloe vera sap, derived from the leaves, is used in creams to help treat fungal infections due to its antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for fungal infection.

1. Gather 2 cups of aloe vera gel from 3 to 4 mature aloe vera plants.
2. Weigh out 1/4 cup of beeswax and 1/4 cup of coconut oil in a small saucepan.
3. Melt the beeswax and coconut oil over low heat for 10 to 15 minutes stirring occasionally.
4. Add 1/2 cup of distilled water and 1 tablespoon of vitamin e oil to the saucepan.
5. Remove the saucepan from heat and let the mixture cool and thicken for 30 minutes.

9. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, creams helps with fungal infection because of its antifungal properties.

The root extract of Glycyrrhiza glabra contains compounds like glycyrrhizin, which exhibits potent antifungal activity against various fungal strains. These compounds help to inhibit the growth and proliferation of fungi, thereby reducing the severity of fungal infections.

Additionally, licorice root has anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which can help to calm the affected skin and promote healing.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra creams that help with fungal infection.

• Licoricidin: This triterpenoid saponin compound has antifungal properties, which help inhibit the growth and proliferation of fungal cells, thereby reducing the severity of fungal infections.
• Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid glycoside has been shown to possess antifungal activities by disrupting the cell membrane of fungal cells, ultimately leading to their death and preventing the spread of infection.
• Isoliquiritigenin: This flavonoid compound has been found to exhibit antifungal properties by suppressing the expression of fungal genes involved in virulence and biofilm formation, thereby reducing the risk of fungal infections.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make creams for fungal infection.

• Roots: The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of glycyrrhizin, a compound with antifungal properties.
• Barks: The barks of Glycyrrhiza glabra are also used, as they contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antifungal effects, which can help soothe and treat fungal infections.
• Seeds: The seeds of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make creams due to their content of glycyrrhetic acid, a compound that has been shown to have antifungal and antibacterial properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for fungal infection.

1. Harvest 30 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots from a trusted supplier or a local market.
2. Steep 30 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots in 500 milliliters of boiling water for 30 minutes.
3. Mix the resulting liquid with 200 grams of sweet almond oil and 100 grams of beeswax.
4. Heat the mixture at 160 degrees fahrenheit for 10 minutes to create a smooth consistency.
5. Allow the mixture to cool and solidify before transferring it to a clean container.

10. Salvia officinalis

Salvia officinalis, also known as sage, creams helps with fungal infection because of its antifungal properties.

The herb's active compounds, including camphor and borneol, have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungi, including those responsible for athlete's foot and ringworm. Additionally, sage's anti-inflammatory properties help to soothe and calm irritated skin, promoting a healthy environment for skin to recover from fungal infections.

This makes Salvia officinalis creams a popular natural remedy for treating fungal infections.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia officinalis creams that help with fungal infection.

• Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound that exhibits antifungal properties by inhibiting the growth of fungal cells and preventing the formation of fungal spores.
• Carnosic acid: A phenolic diterpene that has been shown to possess antifungal activity by disrupting the cell membrane of fungal cells and preventing the synthesis of essential nutrients.
• Ursolic acid: A triterpenoid that has been found to exhibit antifungal properties by inhibiting the synthesis of ergosterol, an essential component of fungal cell membranes.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make creams for fungal infection.

• Leaves: Leaves are rich in antimicrobial properties, which help combat fungal infections.
• Stems: Stems of Salvia officinalis contain compounds that exhibit antifungal activity, making them suitable for use in creams.
• Roots: Roots of the plant are also used for their antifungal properties, which aid in treating fungal infections.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage for fungal infection.

1. Harvest the dried leaves of salvia officinalis in the morning when they are at their peak potency and flavor.
2. Combine 20 grams of the dried leaves with 200 milliliters of carrier oil in a double boiler at medium heat.
3. Steep the mixture for two hours to allow the herbs to infuse into the oil and reach a temperature of 60 degrees celsius.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth and discard the solids while squeezing the cheesecloth to extract as much oil as possible.
5. Whip 100 grams of beeswax and 200 milliliters of the herbal oil mixture together to create a smooth and creamy texture.

What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for fungal infection?

The best combination of herbal creams that help with fungal infection is a blend of tea tree oil, aloe vera, and neem.

Tea tree oil's antifungal properties effectively combat fungal growth, while aloe vera soothes and calms the affected area. Neem cream's antibacterial and antifungal properties help prevent infection spread. Additionally, calendula cream's anti-inflammatory properties reduce redness and itching.

This combination provides a powerful and natural treatment for fungal infections, promoting healing and preventing further irritation.

What ailments similar to fungal infection are treated with herbal creams?

Ailments similar to fungal infection that are treated with herbal creams are eczema, acne, and psoriasis.

Herbal creams containing ingredients like tea tree oil, aloe vera, and chamomile have anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties that help soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing redness and inflammation.

These creams also promote skin healing, reducing the appearance of scars and blemishes.