How to treat oral thrush with baking soda? How long does oral thrush last? What foods should be avoided in this case? What foods are recommended? And finally, what are the other natural remedies to relieve and cure such a fungus?
I. What is oral thrush?
Oral thrush occurs when a yeast infection develops in the mouth. It is also known as oral candidiasis, oropharyngeal candidiasis, or simply thrush.
Oral thrush occurs most often in infants and young children. It causes white or yellowish bumps to form on the inside of the cheeks and tongue. These bumps usually disappear with treatment.
The infection is usually mild and rarely causes serious problems. But in people with weakened immune systems, it can spread to other parts of the body and cause potentially serious complications.
II. Symptoms of Oral Thrush
At first, oral thrush may not cause any symptoms. But as the infection worsens, one or more of the following symptoms may appear:
- White or yellow bumps on the inside of the cheeks, tongue, tonsils, gums, or lips
- Slight bleeding if the bumps are scraped off
- Pain or burning in the mouth
- A cottony feeling in the mouth
- Dry, cracked skin in the corners of the mouth
- Difficulty swallowing
- A bad taste in the mouth
- A loss of taste
III. What causes thrush?
The truth is that candida fungus appears when the hygiene conditions of our mouth are not very good. Mainly because the human body can always be prone to suffer from this disease.
However, the reason why this is not the case is a simple fact that the human body is constantly cleaning itself.
In this case, flossing and frequent brushing of the teeth throughout the day will help to prevent it more effectively.
People with very poor oral hygiene can suffer from this type of disease, mainly because they do not keep their oral hygiene in excellent condition.
IV. How to know if you have a fungus in the mouth?
The symptoms of oral thrush are numerous and can vary from one person to another.
Glossitis is one of the symptoms of oral thrush. It is an inflammation of the tongue. The tongue turns red and causes severe pain.
You may also feel a kind of discomfort when eating. This discomfort is caused by inflammation inside the mouth.
Whitish deposits on the surface of the tongue are also signs of oral thrush. These can be removed by scraping, but sometimes scraping leaves small wounds.
If your tongue turns black, or brownish, it is also possible that you have oral thrush.
V. How long does oral thrush last?
The length of time an oral thrush lasts depends on how bad it is. Sometimes oral thrush is just a symptom of a more serious condition. In these cases, restoration of the intestinal flora may be necessary.
Oral thrush will then be frequent and may last between 3 and 6 months. The time for the infection to be completely cleared.
VI. How to treat oral thrush with baking soda?
1. Different oral mycoses
There are three types of oral thrush:
- Thrush: This is the best-known oral thrush. Although it affects children more than adults, anyone can be affected. The main symptom of thrush is a sort of whitish patina on the surface of the cheeks and tongue. When you develop thrush, you have a burning sensation in your mouth. You may also have problems with your meals, including trouble swallowing.
- The second form of thrush has the symptom of bright red gums, tongue, and palate. The gums, tongue, and palate are painful and the mouth is often dry, with a metallic feeling in the throat.
- Perlachia is the third form of oral thrush. This form of oral thrush is characterized by a red, oozing area at the corners of the lips. It can appear on one or both corners of the mouth. Humidity is an aggravating factor of this pathology.
2. How baking soda works on oral thrush
The real name of baking soda is sodium bicarbonate. It is wrongly associated with soda. Bicarbonate is a household and medical product. It has anti-acid functions.
Acidic environments are favorable to the development of bacteria and fungi, so bicarbonate will slow down their proliferation.
It is a kind of buffer, which allows, where it is applied, the regulation of acid and alkaline compounds.
In general, baking soda acts on fungi. It acts on fungus, creating an environment that is harmful to bacteria.
In the case of oral fungus, baking soda can act on the wounds that develop because of it. It can for example limit the infection. The healing is then accentuated.
The painful mouth is soothed by taking baking soda. This is also one of the capabilities of this product, which relieves various pains.
The use of baking soda can be a plus to your oral thrush treatment.
3. How to use baking soda
Baking soda can be used as a mouthwash to fight oral thrush.
To do this, you just need to make a mouthwash with a bicarbonate solution. In a glass of water, about 250 ml, add a teaspoon of bicarbonate.
This mixture will serve as a mouthwash several times a day. You can also gargle with it.
You should use it for the duration of your antifungal treatment, and even a little later on. This will prevent the infection from returning.
VII. Foods to avoid in case of oral thrush and those recommended
Oral thrush is caused by a fungus called Candida Albicans. This fungus is naturally present in the body, but various circumstances can cause its proliferation. In this case, it is called candidiasis.
Diet plays an important role in the treatment of candidiasis. Some products can increase the disease, while others can help cure it.
In case of oral thrush, a variety of foods should be avoided:
- Dairy products and lactose in general.
- Sugars, especially refined sugars, feed the fungus.
- Excitants such as caffeine, cigarettes, teas, or alcohol of any kind.
- Fermented products contain yeast, such as bread or certain cheeses.
The products to be favored are:
- Yogurt (unsweetened)
- Fruits and vegetables
- Whole or semi-complete cereals
- A small amount of chicken can also be helpful in cases of fungus.
VIII. Other Natural oral thrush treatments
1. Clove Oil
The main compound in clove oil (eugenol) is as effective in the treatment of oral thrush as the antifungal drug nystatin (Mycostatin).
Usage:
Take clove oil as a dietary supplement, as directed by the manufacturer or your doctor. You can also prepare a clove mouthwash:
- Infuse 1 teaspoon of ground whole cloves in 1 cup of boiling water for at least 5 minutes.
- Strain the solution, keeping the liquid.
- Swish the liquid around in your mouth.
- Spit out the solution.
2. Garlic
Garlic is a great non-prescription remedy to work on your oral thrush. This kitchen ingredient has powerful antifungal properties, which allows it to treat fungus.
After cutting a garlic clove in half, place one half on the inside of one of your cheeks. The other half on the gums.
Do this for about 30 minutes, two to three times a day. You can also use it as a mouthwash.
3. Lemon Juice and Lemongrass
Both lemon juice and lemongrass have antifungal properties. A 2009 study showed that both ingredients can be effective home remedies for oral thrush.
Use lemon juice or lemongrass tea (made by macerating dried lemongrass in water or diluting lemongrass essential oil in water) as a mouthwash.
4. Probiotic yogurt
Probiotics, found in plain yogurt, are allies in preserving intestinal flora.
Lactobacilli are very effective against candidiasis, another name for mycosis caused by candida Albicans.
However, remember to take only unsweetened yogurt. Sugar is fuel for yeast and fungus. To treat your yeast infection naturally, consume probiotic yogurts.
Hold a spoonful in your mouth for several seconds before swallowing. This will soothe your pain.
5. Saltwater
Gargling with warm salt water is a quick and easy home remedy for oral thrush. The saltwater creates a hostile environment for the fungus.
Simply combine a teaspoon of Celtic gray sea salt in a glass of warm water. Gargle for about a minute, then spit it out.
Do this three times a day until the oral thrush is controlled.
6. Tea tree essential oil
Using tea tree essential oil as a mouthwash can also treat oral thrush. Its use is easy.
Put ten drops of tea tree oil in half a glass of water. Make a mouthwash with it, three times a day.
7. Turmeric
This bright yellow wonder spice has anti-inflammatory abilities that can help treat oral thrush as well. You can try making “golden milk” to drink:
- Mix 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric paste with a dash of black pepper in 250ml of water or milk.
- Heat the mixture in a saucepan until hot.
- Splash the mixture while drinking it.
8. Coconut oil
Extra virgin coconut oil has caprylic acid. This makes it a natural antifungal agent, capable of preventing the growth of yeast and bacteria.
After carefully brushing your teeth, put a tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth. Without swallowing, swish the liquid around in your mouth.
It must cover all parts of your mouth. Then spit out the liquid and rinse your mouth with sea salt water. Do not gargle.
9. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is known for its antifungal properties and is a popular natural remedy for thrush. To make a cider vinegar rinse, you can:
- Mix 1 teaspoon of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar with 250ml of water.
- Swish it around in your mouth for at least 15 seconds.
- Spit it out.
- You can do this two or three times a day.
10. Vitamin C
Vitamin C helps increase the production of stomach acids and boosts your immunity, which prevents the growth of fungus in your mouth.
The easiest way to increase your vitamin C intake is to take vitamin C capsules.
11. Oregano Oil
Oregano oil has antifungal and antimicrobial properties to target the causes of oral thrush. To use:
- Add 3 to 6 drops of oregano oil to 250 ml of water.
- Swish it around in your mouth as you drink it.
12. Gentian Violet
Gentian violet, also known as crystal violet or methyl violet 10B, is a type of antiseptic dye that was commonly used in the 19th century because it has the properties to kill various pathogens, such as bacteria, fungi, and parasites.
The gentian violet is an over-the-counter topical remedy that can be purchased online or at most pharmacies without a prescription.
To use, dab a small amount of gentian violet on a cotton swab and apply it to the gums, cheeks, and tongue.
13. Good oral hygiene
Good oral hygiene is the most important lifestyle habit to adopt, if not already done. Be sure to brush and floss twice a day, using toothpaste containing fluoride, and see your oral hygienist twice a year.
You can also use a mouthwash between brushings to maintain good hygiene.
14. A diet change
Adding good bacteria to your body through probiotics can also help treat thrush.
Foods such as kimchi, yogurt, sauerkraut, and kombucha are all rich in probiotics.
Oral probiotics are available in health food stores and specialty stores and can also help promote good bacteria.
When trying to get rid of oral thrush, avoid foods and drinks high in sugar, as this can encourage the yeast to spread in your mouth.
IX. Can you drink baking soda for fungal infections?
Drinking baking soda water is a natural way to prevent the onset of fungus. In addition to its benefits on the health of the digestive system, bicarbonate will allow you to protect yourself against the proliferation of fungi.
X. How to treat thrush in babies
Some of the same natural remedies for adults are also recommended for children.
These include applying diluted cider vinegar to the affected area and introducing yogurt into your baby’s diet.
The lactobacilli in yogurt can help restore a healthy bacterial balance in your baby’s mouth.
However, when it comes to your baby, the best thing to do is to consult your child’s doctor.
He or she will be able to recommend the best treatment, whether it’s a prescription oral drop or a simple home remedy.
XI. How can oral thrush be prevented?
Your natural thrush treatment and prevention protocol should also include the following:
Brush your teeth: It is a good idea to get into the habit of brushing your gums and teeth after meals, not just when you get up and/or go to bed.
This helps prevent food from getting stuck on the tongue. Also, floss daily, but if you can’t, a few times a week should do the trick.
Scrape your tongue: It is extremely important to scrape the tongue to remove fungus, bacteria, and other debris. And don’t brush your tongue with your toothbrush either.
Use a metal or copper tongue scraper after brushing your teeth, at least twice a day.
Use an herbal mouthwash: A natural mouthwash can also help you. This can include essential oils such as cinnamon, lavender, eucalyptus, thyme, and peppermint.
Avoid certain foods: Certain foods and substances can feed Candida, including sugar, processed starches such as bread and cereals, and beer and wine, so it’s a good idea to reduce your intake or eliminate them, at least temporarily.
Also avoid foods that contain molds, such as dairy products and mushrooms, and nuts, such as pistachios and cashews.
Avoid smoking: Smokers are more likely to develop oral thrush.
XII. Other Questions on how to treat Oral thrush with baking soda
1. Is oral thrush contagious?
The answer is: not necessarily. Yeast is present in everyone’s mouth.
To develop a fungal infection, the oral environment must be conducive to fungus.
2. How can you cure oral thrush fast?
The fastest way to cure oral thrush is to see your doctor so that he or she can prescribe a fast-acting antifungal medication.
If you want to cure oral thrush at home, or by using natural remedies, you can try any of the remedies mentioned above or a combination of them.
3. Does thrush go away on its own?
If you have a mild oral thrush, it can disappear without treatment, but it can also get much worse, so we recommend that you do not leave it untreated.
4. What are the long-term effects of oral thrush?
If left untreated, oral thrush can last for months or even years. If your immune system is very weak, the fungus can, in rare cases, penetrate deeper layers of tissue, reach the circulatory system and cause life-threatening blood poisoning (sepsis).
5. can oral thrush be cured without medication?
Minor cases of thrush or cases in people with healthy immune systems can be treated without medication.
For these people, the disease can be cured by eating live cultured yogurt or by using acidophilus supplements.
Good dental hygiene and reduction of yeast and food sugars can also help prevent oral thrush.
6. What are the potential side effects of baking soda?
- Nausea and vomiting
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Flatulence
- Abdominal spasms and pain.
7. Can baking soda help white tongue?
Baking soda is an exfoliant that helps fight the white tongue while neutralizing the pH of your mouth.
This is important because a balanced pH reduces the ability of bacteria to reproduce and grow.
Useful Links:
Candida infections of the mouth, throat, and esophagus