Whether your allergies are food- or environmentally triggered, Natural anti-fungal medications may give you relief.
Probiotics are usually the first line of defense. These capsules containing friendly bacteria help to restore the natural balance of bacteria and yeast in your digestive system. Although probiotics are unlikely to completely take care of your problem, they will begin the job.
Olive leaf extract is a potent antimicrobial that inhibits the growth of many microorganisms ranging from yeast to viruses, bacteria, and protozoa.
Caprylic acid, derived from castor oil, is a naturally occurring fatty acid that is readily absorbed in the entire digestive tract by using an enteric-coated form. Some research suggests it interferes with the growth and reproductive processes of yeast organisms.
Garlic has been widely used for medicinal purposes for centuries. Garlic extract has been scientifically proven to strengthen the immune system by helping white blood cells engulf and destroy enemy germs, including Candida albicans yeast.
Citrus seed or grapefruit seed extract has been shown to discourage the growth of yeast in the intestinal tract. Some doctors say this extract is as effective as prescription medications in treating candida-related yeast problems.

These products are available at your local health food store and offered along with an anti-candida program, books, diet, and supplements at www.yeastconnection.com.

If your yeast overgrowth has been long-established, it's likely you’ll need to take prescription antifungal medications for several months or even more.

The most commonly used:
Diflucan is common for the short-term treatment of vaginitis and is the drug of choice for many physicians treating yeast overgrowth on a long-term basis. It works throughout the system to penetrate tissues infested with yeast organisms. Your liver function should be monitored if you take Diflucan on a long-term basis, since rare cases of liver toxicity have been reported.
Nystatin has been in use longer than Diflucan and similar drugs. It works in a unique way to help re-establish the strength of the intestinal walls, eliminating the leaky gut syndrome.

There are numerous other prescription antifungals. Discuss them with your doctor. But remember that following an anti-Candida diet and taking probiotics will enhance the success of prescription anti-fungal drugs.

Authors:
Carolyn Dean, M.D., N.D., is medical advisor to Woman's Health Connection at www.yeastconnection.com and is featured on the website's "Ask A Pro" page. Her latest books are The Miracle of Magnesium and Natural Prescriptions for Common Ailments.

Carol Beck, M.S., is a consultant, therapist, and author of Full and Fulfilled: The Science of Eating to Your Soul's Satisfaction (written with Nan Allison, M.S., R.D., L.D.N.) and Nourishing Your Daughter: Help Your Child Develop a Health Relationship With Food and Her Body. Carol serves as health advisor of Woman's Health Connection and www.yeastconnection.com.