By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Fungal Infection
Herbal tinctures for fungal infection are a natural alternative to conventional treatments, harnessing the power of plant extracts to combat fungal overgrowth.
These tinctures work by stimulating the body's immune response, reducing inflammation, and promoting healthy skin and nail growth. Examples of effective herbal tinctures include Tea Tree oil, Echinacea, and Goldenseal, which have been shown to inhibit fungal growth and alleviate symptoms such as itching, redness, and scaling.
By using these tinctures, individuals can improve their quality of life by reducing the discomfort and embarrassment associated with fungal infections, promoting overall well-being and confidence.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for fungal infection, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Melaleuca alternifolia
- 2. Artemisia absinthium
- 3. Calendula officinalis
- 4. Echinacea angustifolia
- 5. Ginkgo biloba
- 6. Berberis aquifolium
- 7. Taraxacum officinale
- 8. Sambucus nigra
- 9. Aloe vera
- 10. Equisetum arvense
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for fungal infection?
- What ailments similar to fungal infection are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Melaleuca alternifolia
Tea tree tinctures helps with fungal infection because of its potent antifungal properties, which effectively combat the growth of fungi that cause infections.
The tannins and essential oils present in tea tree extracts have been shown to inhibit the development of fungal colonies, reducing inflammation and promoting a healthy environment for skin and nails.
Additionally, tea tree's antibacterial properties help eliminate bacteria that can contribute to fungal infections, making it an effective natural remedy for treating a range of fungal infections, including athlete's foot, ringworm, and toenail fungus.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melaleuca alternifolia tinctures that help with fungal infection.
- Cineole: This terpene has antimicrobial properties that inhibit the growth of fungi and bacteria, helping to combat fungal infections.
- Linalool: As a terpene, linalool has antifungal properties that help to reduce fungal growth and alleviate symptoms associated with fungal infections.
- Caryophyllene oxide: This sesquiterpene has potent antifungal activity, which helps to inhibit the development of fungal infections and promote healing.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tea tree used to make tinctures for fungal infection.
- Leaves: Rich in compounds like cineole and terpinen-4-ol, which have antifungal properties that help combat fungal infections.
- Barks: Contain bioactive compounds that have been shown to exhibit antifungal activity, making them effective in fighting fungal infections.
- Stems: Rich in essential oils that have been traditionally used to treat various health issues, including fungal infections, due to their antimicrobial properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea tree for fungal infection.
- Harvest melaleuca alternifolia leaves and flowers in the early morning when essential oils are most concentrated and fragrant.
- Dry the harvested plant material in a warm dark place for 7 to 10 days or until completely dry.
- Combine 1 part dried melaleuca alternifolia plant material with 2 parts 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks shaking the jar every day or two.
- Strain the tincture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
2. Artemisia absinthium
Wormwood tinctures helps with fungal infection because its active compounds, such as thujone and flavonoids, exhibit potent antifungal properties.
The tannins present in wormwood also help to dry out the affected area, reducing moisture that fungi thrive on. Additionally, wormwood's antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects may aid in promoting a healthy environment for fungal elimination.
As a natural remedy, herbal wormwood tinctures offer a promising approach to tackling fungal infections, providing an alternative to conventional treatments and supporting the body's natural defenses against infection.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Artemisia absinthium tinctures that help with fungal infection.
- Thujone: This sesquiterpene is known for its antifungal properties, helping to inhibit the growth of fungal pathogens and alleviate symptoms of fungal infections.
- Artemisinin: This sesquiterpene lactone has been shown to exhibit antifungal activity, disrupting the cell membranes of fungal cells and ultimately leading to their death.
- Cineole: This monoterpenoid has been found to possess antifungal properties, helping to prevent the spread of fungal infections by disrupting the fungal cell membrane and inhibiting the production of fungal enzymes.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of wormwood used to make tinctures for fungal infection.
- Leaves: Artemisia absinthium leaves are valued for their antifungal properties, which help combat fungal infections.
- Buds: Artemisia absinthium buds contain bioactive compounds that exhibit antifungal activity, aiding in the treatment of fungal infections.
- Stems: Artemisia absinthium stems also possess antifungal properties, making them a useful component in tinctures for fungal infection treatment.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wormwood for fungal infection.
- Harvest 100g of fresh artemisia absinthium leaves and flowers at dawn to ensure optimal potency retention.
- Cleanse the herbs by gently brushing off dirt and debris with a soft-bristled brush to remove impurities.
- Combine the cleaned herbs with 500ml of 45% glycerin and 55% vodka in a clean glass jar to create the solvent mixture.
- Steep the mixture for 14 days in a cool dark place to allow the herbal extracts to infuse into the solvent.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle to separate the liquid tincture from the solids.
3. Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold tinctures helps with fungal infection because of its antimicrobial properties, which are believed to disrupt the growth and spread of fungi.
The tincture contains flavonoids and terpenoids that work together to inhibit fungal metabolism and reduce inflammation. Additionally, pot marigold's antifungal compounds have been shown to selectively target and kill fungal cells without harming human tissue.
This targeted approach makes it an effective natural remedy for treating a range of fungal infections, from athlete's foot to nail fungus.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis tinctures that help with fungal infection.
- Calendulin: A triterpenoid saponin, calendulin exhibits antifungal activity against various fungal pathogens, including Candida species, likely due to its ability to disrupt cell membrane integrity and inhibit fungal growth.
- Naringenin: A flavonoid compound, naringenin has been shown to possess antifungal properties, possibly by inhibiting fungal enzymes and interfering with fungal cell membrane function, which may contribute to its effectiveness against fungal infections.
- Oleanolic acid: A triterpenoid compound, oleanolic acid has been found to exhibit antifungal activity, possibly by inhibiting the synthesis of ergosterol, a critical component of fungal cell membranes, thereby disrupting fungal cell membrane function and inhibiting fungal growth.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make tinctures for fungal infection.
- Flowers: They are used to make tinctures for fungal infections due to their high concentration of triterpenoid saponins, which exhibit antifungal properties.
- Leaves: They are used to make tinctures for fungal infections due to their ability to inhibit the growth of fungi through their alkaloid and flavonoid content.
- Roots: They are used to make tinctures for fungal infections due to their high concentration of sesquiterpene lactones, which have been shown to possess antifungal and antimicrobial properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for fungal infection.
- Harvest the calendula flowers in the morning after the dew has evaporated but before the heat of the day sets in.
- Clean the harvested flowers by gently swishing them in a fine mesh strainer under cold running water for 2 minutes.
- Combine 1 part of the cleaned calendula flowers with 2 parts of the menstruum a solvent such as glycerin or ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the jar every day or two to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the liquid from the solids through a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle to obtain the calendula tincture.
4. Echinacea angustifolia
Kansas coneflower tinctures helps with fungal infection because of its potent antimicrobial properties.
The herb, Echinacea purpurea, contains compounds like echinacein and caryophyllene, which have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungi such as Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger. Additionally, the tincture's anti-inflammatory properties help reduce inflammation and discomfort associated with fungal infections, promoting a faster recovery.
By using Kansas coneflower tinctures, individuals may experience relief from symptoms like itching, burning, and discoloration, making it a natural and effective treatment option for fungal infections.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia tinctures that help with fungal infection.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have been found to exhibit antifungal properties, helping to inhibit the growth of fungal pathogens and reduce the severity of fungal infections.
- Alkylamides: Alkylamides have been shown to possess immunomodulatory effects, which can help to boost the body's natural defenses against fungal infections and reduce inflammation.
- Phenylethanoids: These compounds have been found to exhibit antiviral and antifungal properties, helping to protect against the spread of fungal pathogens and reduce the severity of fungal infections.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make tinctures for fungal infection.
- Roots: Rich in alkylamides and phenolic acids, which have antimicrobial and antifungal properties.
- Leaves: Contain echinacoside, a compound with potential antifungal and antimicrobial effects.
- Roots: Also contain other compounds like isobutylamides and palmitic acid, which contribute to their antifungal properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for fungal infection.
- Harvest echinacea angustifolia roots in late summer or early fall when the plants are fully matured.
- Dry the harvested roots in a single layer at 25 degrees celsius for 7 days to preserve their medicinal properties.
- Grind 100 grams of dried roots into a fine powder using a coffee grinder to increase surface area.
- Mix 100 grams of the powdered roots with 500 milliliters of 60 to 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 4 to 6 weeks shaking the jar every day to facilitate extraction.
5. Ginkgo biloba
Maidenhair tree tinctures helps with fungal infection because its unique composition contains triterpenoid saponins, which have been shown to exhibit antifungal properties.
These compounds work by disrupting the fungal cell membrane and preventing it from reproducing. The tincture's ability to target specific fungal species also makes it an effective treatment for a range of infections, including athlete's foot, ringworm, and nail fungus.
By utilizing the antimicrobial properties of maidenhair tree, the tincture provides a natural solution for combating fungal infections.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba tinctures that help with fungal infection.
- Bilobalide: This terpene has been shown to have antifungal properties, inhibiting the growth of fungal cells and potentially preventing the development of fungal infections.
- Ginkgo flavone glycosides: These polyphenolic compounds exhibit antifungal activity, possibly through their ability to chelate metal ions, disrupt fungal cell membranes, and inhibit fungal enzymes, ultimately contributing to the suppression of fungal growth.
- Ginkgolide b: While primarily known for its anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects, Ginkgolide B has also demonstrated antifungal activity, likely due to its ability to inhibit fungal cell proliferation and induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) in fungal cells.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make tinctures for fungal infection.
- Leaves: Ginkgo biloba leaves are rich in flavonoids and terpenoids, which have been shown to have antifungal properties.
- Seeds: Ginkgo biloba seeds have been traditionally used to treat fungal infections, and they contain compounds that have been found to inhibit the growth of certain fungi.
- Barks: Ginkgo biloba barks contain flavonoids and other compounds that have been found to have antifungal properties and are used in some tinctures to treat fungal infections.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for fungal infection.
- Harvest 1 part of ginkgo biloba leaves and 1 part of ginkgo biloba seeds from mature trees.
- Chop the ginkgo biloba leaves and seeds into small pieces using a sharp knife.
- Combine the chopped ginkgo biloba leaves and seeds with 4 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the jar daily.
- Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass bottle.
6. Berberis aquifolium
Oregon grape tinctures helps with fungal infection because it contains berberine, a powerful antifungal compound that targets Candida albicans and other fungal pathogens.
Berberine has been shown to inhibit the growth of fungal cells, preventing them from multiplying and spreading throughout the body. Additionally, Oregon grape's antibacterial properties help to combat secondary infections, which can occur when fungi release toxins into the bloodstream.
By addressing both fungal and bacterial components of infection, Oregon grape tinctures provide a holistic approach to promoting recovery from fungal infections.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Berberis aquifolium tinctures that help with fungal infection.
- Berberine: A phenanthrene alkaloid with antimicrobial properties, which helps combat fungal infections by inhibiting the growth of fungal cells and preventing the production of fungal spores.
- Vasakine: A protoberberine alkaloid with antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, which helps fight fungal infections by neutralizing free radicals and inhibiting the proliferation of fungal cells.
- Oxyberberine: A berberine derivative with potent antimicrobial properties, which helps combat fungal infections by disrupting the cell membranes of fungal cells and preventing the synthesis of ergosterol, an essential component of fungal cell membranes.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of oregon grape used to make tinctures for fungal infection.
- Roots: Rich in berberine, a compound with antifungal properties that help combat fungal infections.
- Barks: Contain berberine, which has been traditionally used to treat various fungal infections due to its antimicrobial properties.
- Leaves: Also contain berberine, making them effective in treating fungal infections with their antifungal and antibacterial properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic oregon grape for fungal infection.
- Collect and clean 2 pounds of berberis aquifolium roots and stems in the wild or from a trusted source.
- Chop the plant material into small pieces using a sharp knife or a herb cutter for efficient processing.
- Combine the chopped plant material with 80 proof vodka or a similar solvent in a 1:5 ratio by weight.
- Store the mixture in a clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean container to separate the tincture from solids.
7. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion tinctures helps with fungal infection because of its antimicrobial properties, which can inhibit the growth and spread of fungi.
The plant contains compounds like taraxasterol and triterpenoids that have been shown to exhibit antifungal activity against a range of fungal species. Additionally, dandelion's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties can help soothe and calm irritated skin and mucous membranes, reducing discomfort and promoting overall health.
This makes dandelion tincture a potential natural remedy for treating fungal infections such as athlete's foot and ringworm.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale tinctures that help with fungal infection.
- Taraxasterol: It helps prevent fungal infections by exhibiting antifungal properties, specifically inhibiting the growth of various fungal species.
- Inulin: It helps by promoting a healthy gut microbiome, which can prevent the overgrowth of fungi and other pathogens in the body.
- Phloridzin: It helps by exhibiting antimicrobial properties, specifically targeting fungal pathogens and preventing their adhesion to host cells.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make tinctures for fungal infection.
- Roots: The roots of Taraxacum officinale contain taraxasterol, which has been shown to exhibit antifungal properties.
- Leaves: Taraxacum officinale leaves contain compounds that have been found to inhibit the growth of certain fungi, making them a useful ingredient in tinctures.
- Seeds: The seeds of the plant contain saponins, which have been traditionally used to treat fungal infections due to their antifungal properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for fungal infection.
- Harvest the roots and leaves of taraxacum officinale in the early morning when the plant is at its highest potency.
- Clean the harvested plant material thoroughly with filtered water to remove any impurities and debris.
- Use a 1:2 ratio of plant material to solvent such as 95 ethanol and steep the mixture for 2 to 6 weeks.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter to separate the liquid from the solids.
- Store the final tincture in dark glass bottles with tight-fitting lids in a cool dry place at room temperature.
8. Sambucus nigra
Elder tinctures helps with fungal infection because they possess antifungal properties that effectively combat fungal growth.
The tannins and flavonoids present in elderberry extract have been shown to inhibit the replication of fungi, reducing their ability to cause infections. Additionally, elder tincture's antibacterial properties help to prevent the overgrowth of bacteria that can exacerbate fungal infections.
By using elder tinctures, individuals can support their body's natural defense against fungal infections and promote a healthy balance of gut flora.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sambucus nigra tinctures that help with fungal infection.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Sambucus nigra, particularly quercetin and kaempferol, have been shown to exhibit antifungal properties by inhibiting the growth of fungal cells and disrupting their cell membranes.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, such as caffeic acid and ferulic acid, in Sambucus nigra have been found to possess antifungal activity by interfering with the fungal cell wall and membrane, ultimately leading to cell death.
- Anthraquinones: Anthraquinones, a class of compounds found in Sambucus nigra, have been demonstrated 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 elder used to make tinctures for fungal infection.
- Flowers: They contain antimicrobial properties, which help combat fungal infections.
- Leaves: Leaves have antifungal properties, making them effective in treating fungal infections.
- Stems: Stems may contain bioactive compounds that help inhibit the growth of fungi.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic elder for fungal infection.
- Gather 250g of dried elderberry flowers and 1l of 80 proof vodka.
- Combine the dried elderberry flowers with the vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 4-6 weeks shaking daily.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass container.
- Discard the solids and transfer the tincture to dark glass bottles for storage.
9. Aloe vera
Aloe tinctures helps with fungal infection because of its potent antifungal properties, which effectively target and eliminate fungal growths.
The gel-like substance within aloe vera contains compounds like aloin and barbaloin that exhibit strong fungicidal activity, making it an effective natural treatment for various types of fungal infections.
Additionally, aloe's anti-inflammatory properties help reduce swelling and discomfort associated with fungal infections, promoting overall healing and relief from symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera tinctures that help with fungal infection.
- Aloe-emodin: Aloe-emodin is a anthraquinone compound that exhibits antifungal properties by inhibiting the growth of fungal cells and disrupting their cell membranes.
- Aloe-β-sitosterol: Aloe-β-sitosterol is a phytosterol that displays antifungal activity by interfering with the synthesis of ergosterol, an essential component of fungal cell membranes, thereby inhibiting fungal growth.
- Aloe-isoalantolactone: Aloe-isoalantolactone is a sesquiterpene lactone that exhibits antifungal properties by suppressing the production of fungal enzymes and interfering with the fungal cell cycle, ultimately leading to the inhibition of fungal growth.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make tinctures for fungal infection.
- Leaves: Aloe vera leaves are the most commonly used part for tinctures due to their high content of salicylic acid, which has antifungal properties.
- Roots: Aloe vera roots contain compounds like aloin and aloe-emodin, which have shown antifungal activity and are often used in tinctures.
- Stems: Aloe vera stems also contain compounds like aloe-emodin and aloin, which have antifungal properties and are used in tincture formulations.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for fungal infection.
- Gather 100g of fresh aloe vera leaves and 500ml of high-proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Chop the aloe vera leaves into small pieces and add them to the jar with the vodka.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks shaking it daily to infuse the mixture.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle to remove the solids.
- Label the bottle with the date and ingredients and store it in a cool dark place for up to 5 years.
10. Equisetum arvense
Field horsetail tinctures helps with fungal infection because of its unique properties.
The herb contains compounds like silica, flavonoids, and terpenes that have been shown to exhibit antifungal activity. These compounds work by disrupting the cell membrane of fungi, preventing them from multiplying and spreading. Additionally, field horsetail's high silicate content helps to alkalize the body, creating an environment that is less conducive to fungal growth.
As a result, field horsetail tinctures can be a valuable natural remedy for treating fungal infections such as athlete's foot, ringworm, and toenail fungus.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Equisetum arvense tinctures that help with fungal infection.
- Aesculetin: Aesculetin, a coumarin derivative, has antifungal properties, which help combat fungal infections by inhibiting the growth of fungal cells.
- Silicic acid: Silicic acid, a component of the plant's cell walls, has antifungal and antimicrobial properties, which aid in preventing the spread of fungal infections by creating an inhospitable environment for fungal growth.
- Furanocoumarins: Furanocoumarins, a group of compounds found in Equisetum arvense, possess antifungal and antiseptic properties, which help in treating and preventing fungal infections by inhibiting fungal enzymes and cell division.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of field horsetail used to make tinctures for fungal infection.
- Roots: The roots of Equisetum arvense are used to make tinctures as they contain the highest concentration of bioactive compounds, including equisetic acid, which has been shown to have antifungal properties.
- Leaves: The leaves are used to make tinctures due to their content of equisetic acid and other flavonoids, which have been found to inhibit the growth of fungi.
- Stems: The stems of Equisetum arvense are also used to make tinctures, containing equisetic acid and other compounds that have been shown to have antifungal effects.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic field horsetail for fungal infection.
- Harvest 1 part of fresh equisetum arvense stems and roots in the morning to ensure optimal potency.
- Dry the harvested plant material in a warm dark place for 2-3 weeks to minimize moisture content.
- Combine 1 part of dried equisetum arvense with 2 parts of 80-proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks with occasional shaking to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass container to separate the tincture from plant material.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for fungal infection?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with fungal infection is a blend of Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia), Oregano (Origanum vulgare), and Echinacea (Echinacea spp.).
Tea Tree tincture has antimicrobial properties that target fungal cells, while Oregano tincture's antifungal properties help to inhibit the growth of fungal organisms. Echinacea tincture, rich in antioxidants, supports the immune system and promotes overall health.
This combination can be taken orally or applied topically to help alleviate fungal infections, promoting a faster recovery.
What ailments similar to fungal infection are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to fungal infection that are treated with herbal tinctures are various skin conditions, such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis.
Additionally, certain bacterial infections like MRSA, UTIs, and sinusitis can also be addressed with herbal tinctures.
Herbal remedies containing antimicrobial and antifungal properties, such as tea tree oil, garlic, and goldenseal, are often used to combat these conditions, providing a natural alternative to conventional treatments.