Essential Oil for Oral Thrush

Thrush can be uncomfortable and even painful, affecting our ability to enjoy everyday life. In this blog post, we’ll delve into how essential oils can relieve oral thrush discomfort. We’ll cover their antibacterial properties, application methods, and various options. Whether you seek an alternative to expensive medical treatments or a natural remedy, let’s explore how essential oils can alleviate oral thrush.

10 Essential Oils for thrush

• Tea Tree Essential Oil
• Thyme Essential Oil
• Peppermint Essential Oil
• Geranium Essential Oil
• Lemon Essential Oil
• Clove Essential Oil
• Oregano Essential Oil
• Coconut Oil
• Garlic Essential Oil
• Vitamin C Essential Oil

Tea Tree Essential Oil

Tea Tree Essential Oil, derived from the Australian tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia), is renowned for its antifungal, antibacterial properties, making it an effective remedy for oral thrush, caused by Candida albicans overgrowth.

Why Tea Tree Essential Oil works against oral thrush:

• Antifungal: Tea Tree Oil contains terpinen-4-ol, combating fungal infections, including Candida, when applied topically.
• Antibacterial: It controls harmful oral bacteria, discouraging Candida growth.
• Anti-Inflammatory: Alleviates discomfort and inflammation associated with oral thrush.

To use Tea Tree Essential Oil:

1. Dilute: Mix a few Tea Tree Oil drops with a tablespoon of carrier oil (e.g., coconut or olive oil).
2. Oral Rinse: Gargle the diluted mixture for 30 seconds, reaching affected areas. Spit, don’t swallow.
3. Repeat: Perform this rinse 2-3 times daily, post-meals and before sleep, until symptoms subside.

Why Tea Tree Essential Oil is an ideal oral thrush treatment:

• Natural and Safe: Chemical-free, safe for most adults when used correctly.
• Effective Antifungal: Battles Candida overgrowth.
• Easy Application: Simple dilution and application make it user-friendly.
• Few Side Effects: Typically causes minimal side effects, such as minor skin irritation.

Consult a healthcare professional, especially with underlying health issues or persistent symptoms. Perform a skin patch test to check sensitivity before oral use.

Thyme Essential Oil

Thyme essential oil is a potent remedy for oral thrush due to its antifungal and antibacterial properties.

Antifungal Properties: Thyme essential oil contains thymol and carvacrol, powerful compounds that combat the Candida albicans fungus responsible for oral thrush.

Antibacterial Effects: Thyme oil helps prevent secondary bacterial infections that may occur with oral thrush.

Immune System Support: Thyme essential oil can bolster the immune system, crucial for fighting fungal infections, especially in those with compromised immunity.

How to Use Thyme Essential Oil for Oral Thrush:

• Dilution: Mix a few drops of thyme essential oil with a carrier oil, like coconut or olive oil, at a ratio of 1-2 drops per teaspoon of carrier oil.
• Oral Rinse: Add diluted thyme oil to warm water to create a mouthwash. Rinse for 30 seconds, focusing on affected areas, and spit it out.
• Topical Application: Gently apply diluted thyme oil to affected areas using a cotton swab.
• Gargling: Dilute thyme oil in warm water and use it for gargling to target the throat and mouth.
• Repeat: Depending on the severity, repeat treatments several times daily until improvement is observed.

Why Thyme Essential Oil Is Ideal:

• Natural and Safe: Thyme oil offers a safe alternative to conventional antifungal medications, minimizing side effects.
• Multi-Purpose: Thyme essential oil addresses thrush while supporting overall oral health.
• Readily Available: Easily accessible in health stores and online.

Peppermint Essential Oil

Peppermint essential oil effectively treats oral thrush with its antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties:

1. Antifungal Power: Menthol and carvacrol in peppermint oil combat Candida albicans, inhibiting its growth and promoting healing.

2. Antibacterial Defense: Peppermint oil prevents secondary infections and maintains oral hygiene during thrush treatment.

3. Soothing Relief: Its anti-inflammatory nature alleviates oral thrush discomfort.

How to Use Peppermint Essential Oil for Oral Thrush:

1. Dilution: Mix a few drops of peppermint oil with a carrier oil like coconut or almond oil (usually one drop of essential oil to one teaspoon of carrier oil) to avoid irritation.

2. Homemade Mouthwash: Add diluted peppermint oil to warm water for a homemade mouthwash. Gargle and swish for 30 seconds to a minute, reaching affected areas.

3. Topical Application: Apply diluted peppermint oil with a clean cotton swab or sterile cloth to affected mouth areas. Avoid swallowing.

4. Oil Pulling: Swish diluted peppermint oil in your mouth for 10-15 minutes before spitting it out to reduce fungal overgrowth.

Why Peppermint Essential Oil Is Ideal:

• Natural and Safe: Peppermint oil is a chemical-free, natural remedy.
• Versatile: Easily integrates into various oral thrush treatments, including mouthwash and topical applications.
• Fast-Acting: Its potency quickly relieves oral thrush symptoms, expediting healing.
• Minimal Side Effects: Properly diluted and used as directed, peppermint oil is generally well-tolerated with fewer side effects than alternatives.

Geranium Essential Oil

Geranium essential oil is a natural remedy for oral thrush due to its proven antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Why it Works:

• Antifungal: Geranium oil contains compounds like citronellol and geraniol, which inhibit the growth of the Candida albicans fungus responsible for oral thrush.
• Antibacterial: It can help prevent secondary bacterial infections alongside oral thrush.
• Anti-Inflammatory: Reduces discomfort and inflammation associated with oral thrush.

How to Use:

• Ingredients: 2-3 drops of Geranium Essential Oil, 1 tablespoon of carrier oil (e.g., coconut or almond oil).
• Instructions: Mix the oils, apply directly to affected areas with a cotton swab or finger (avoid swallowing), repeat 2-3 times daily.

Why Geranium Oil is Ideal:

• Natural Remedy: Chemical-free alternative to conventional treatments, appealing to holistic health enthusiasts.
• Ease of Use: Simple application at home, no special equipment or professional needed.
• Broad-Spectrum: Targets Candida fungus, eases symptoms, and reduces secondary infection risks.

While Geranium Essential Oil can aid oral thrush management, it’s not a standalone treatment. Consult a healthcare professional for severe or persistent cases, especially with underlying health issues. Always perform a patch test to check for adverse reactions.

Lemon Essential Oil

Lemon essential oil is favored for oral thrush treatment due to its natural antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Using Lemon Essential Oil for Oral Thrush:

1. Dilution: Mix a few drops of lemon essential oil with a teaspoon of a carrier oil (like coconut or olive oil) to prevent skin irritation.
2. Application: Apply the diluted mixture to affected areas using a clean cotton swab or finger, ensuring thorough coverage.
3. Rinse: Optionally, rinse your mouth with warm water after a few minutes.
4. Frequency: Repeat 2-3 times daily until improvement is observed.

Why Lemon Essential Oil Is Ideal:

• Natural and Safe: Lemon essential oil is a safe, natural remedy without harsh chemicals.
• Readily Available: Easily found in health stores and online.
• Versatile: Useful for various health and wellness purposes beyond oral thrush.
• Pleasant Flavor: Offers a pleasant citrus taste compared to other essential oils.

Remember, individual reactions vary. If adverse effects occur or thrush persists, consult a healthcare professional for guidance and alternative treatments.

Clove Essential Oil

Clove essential oil is an effective natural remedy for oral thrush due to its unique properties. Here’s why it’s an ideal option and how to use it:

1. Antifungal Properties: Clove essential oil contains eugenol, a powerful antifungal compound effective against the Candida albicans fungus responsible for oral thrush.

2. Antiseptic and Antibacterial: Clove oil’s antiseptic and antibacterial qualities reduce mouth bacteria and prevent secondary infections worsening oral thrush.

3. Pain Relief: Clove oil’s numbing effect temporarily relieves pain and discomfort often associated with oral thrush.

4. Natural Flavor: Clove oil’s strong, pleasant flavor masks the unpleasant taste of oral thrush.

How to Use Clove Essential Oil for Oral Thrush:

1. Dilution: Always dilute clove essential oil with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil. Pure clove oil can be too strong and cause irritation.
2. Swish and Spit: Gently swish the diluted mixture in your mouth for 30 seconds to 1 minute, coating affected areas. Spit it out; do not swallow.
3. Repeat: Repeat 2-3 times daily, especially after meals and before bedtime, for best results.
4. Caution: Clove oil is potent; improper dilution can cause discomfort. Start with a small amount and adjust as needed.

What Makes Clove Essential Oil Ideal:

Clove essential oil’s natural antifungal, antibacterial, and pain-relieving properties make it an excellent choice for oral thrush. It alleviates symptoms, combats the fungal infection, and enhances oral health. Its pleasant flavor simplifies oral use. Consult a healthcare professional before using essential oils for medical purposes, especially with underlying health conditions.

Oregano Essential Oil

Oregano essential oil is effective for treating oral thrush due to its antifungal, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties:

1. Antifungal Properties: Oregano oil contains carvacrol and thymol, which combat the Candida albicans fungus, inhibiting its growth.
2. Antimicrobial Benefits: Oregano oil reduces the mouth’s microbial load, hindering fungal overgrowth.
3. Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Oregano oil alleviates discomfort and inflammation associated with oral thrush.

How to use oregano oil for oral thrush:

1. Dilution: Mix 1-2 drops of oregano oil with a carrier oil (e.g., coconut or olive oil) to reduce potency.
2. Swish and Spit: Swirl the mixture in your mouth for 15-30 seconds, ensuring coverage, and spit it out without swallowing.
3. Frequency: Use 2-3 times daily, but avoid excessive use to prevent irritation.
4. Consult a Healthcare Professional: If unsure or if symptoms persist, seek professional guidance.

Why Oregano Essential Oil is Ideal:

Oregano oil offers a natural, accessible, and effective remedy for oral thrush. It targets the root cause, provides relief, and aids oral health restoration. Use with care and consult a professional if needed.

Coconut Essential Oil

Coconut essential oil is an effective natural remedy for oral thrush due to its specific properties:

1. Antifungal: Coconut oil’s lauric acid inhibits Candida albicans growth, the culprit behind oral thrush.
2. Medium-Chain Fatty Acids: Caprylic and capric acids in coconut oil disrupt Candida cell membranes, eliminating the fungus.
3. Anti-Inflammatory: Coconut oil reduces thrush-related discomfort and inflammation.

To use coconut essential oil for oral thrush:

1. Oil Pulling: Swish a tablespoon of coconut oil in your mouth for 15-20 minutes, then spit it out. Rinse with warm water and brush your teeth.
2. Topical Application: Apply a small amount to affected areas using a clean cotton swab or finger, repeating several times daily.
3. Coconut Oil Capsules: Opt for convenient coconut oil capsules, available in stores or online.
4. Dietary Incorporation: Include coconut oil in your daily diet to support internal defense against fungal infections.

Coconut essential oil’s natural, safe, and multifaceted approach makes it an excellent choice for oral thrush treatment. However, it complements, but does not replace, prescribed medical treatments for severe or persistent cases. Always consult a healthcare professional for guidance on managing oral thrush or any medical condition.

Garlic Essential Oil

Garlic essential oil is a potent natural remedy for oral thrush due to its antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties, particularly its allicin compound that combats Candida albicans.

How to Use It:

1. Dilution: Due to its concentration, dilute garlic essential oil with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil. Mix a few drops of garlic oil with a teaspoon of carrier oil.
2. Gargle and Swish: Swish the diluted mixture in your mouth for 30 seconds to a minute, reaching affected areas.
3. Spit It Out: Do not swallow the mixture.
4. Frequency: Repeat this process 2-3 times daily, especially after meals and before bedtime.

Why It’s Ideal:

1. Antifungal Properties: Garlic fights Candida albicans effectively.
2. Broad Benefits: It addresses not only thrush but also enhances overall oral health through antibacterial and antiviral properties.
3. Low Side Effects: Properly diluted garlic oil is generally safe with fewer side effects compared to OTC antifungal medications.
4. Affordable: It’s a cost-effective alternative to prescription drugs.
5. Ease of Use: Simple application makes it accessible for natural remedy seekers.

Remember to consult a healthcare professional, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are pregnant, for personalized guidance on safe usage.

Vitamin C Essential Oil

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Vitamin C essential oil effectively treats oral thrush with its antifungal, immune-boosting, and anti-inflammatory properties. Here’s how to use it:

Application Method:

1. Dilute: Mix a few drops of Vitamin C essential oil with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil, at a 2-3 drops per teaspoon ratio.
2. Apply: Gently use a clean cotton swab or finger to cover the affected areas in your mouth with the diluted mixture. Avoid swallowing.
3. Frequency: Apply the mixture a few times daily, preferably after meals and before bedtime. Continue until oral thrush symptoms completely disappear, which may take a few days to a couple of weeks.

Why Choose Vitamin C Essential Oil:

• Natural Solution: Vitamin C essential oil is a gentle, natural remedy for oral thrush, without the harshness of chemical alternatives.
• Versatile: Besides its antifungal qualities, Vitamin C essential oil supports immunity and eases inflammation, addressing multiple facets of oral thrush.
• Easily Accessible: You can find Vitamin C essential oil in health stores and online, ensuring convenient access for those seeking natural oral thrush remedies.
• Minimal Side Effects: Properly used, Vitamin C essential oil generally has few to no side effects, making it suitable for most individuals.

For severe or persistent oral thrush cases, consult a healthcare professional. Individuals with allergies or sensitivities should do a patch test or seek medical advice before internal use of essential oils.

How to use essential oil for oral thrush

According to Healthline, time is of the essence, and it is important to treat oral thrush as soon as you begin to see signs and symptoms. Essential oils are part of the natural solution in treating thrush. Oregano oil has antifungal and antibacterial properties, and these are necessary for dealing with oral thrush, which is caused by a fungus. 

You will need to combine 2 drops of oregano oil and 1 cup of water. Use this mixture to gargle and spit it out. Do not swallow it. The thrush is in your mouth, and that is what to deal with. This is one of the few essential oils you can put in your mouth and not worry about it being poisonous.

Oral thrush is not easy to get rid of, especially if it has gotten out of hand. It quickly becomes drug-resistant, and this is why essential oils are great at fighting the bacteria that cause oral thrush. No two bottles of essential oil are the same in their chemical makeup, and so this means that they can deal with drug-resistant bacteria. The unique chemical makeup of the essential oils makes it hard for the candida to adapt and become resistant.

Studies show that different essential oils can deal with oral thrush and the bacteria that cause it.  Peppermint, tea tree, thyme, and lavender are some of the effective oils. Also, lemon essential oil, ginger, german chamomile, myrtle, and ajowan have strong anti-fungal properties. 

Once you know which essential oils to use, according to verified studies, you can use them to rinse the bacteria out, following some recipes such as the oregano recipe we have just gone through. There is also a method called coconut pulling. All you need is 1 Tablespoon of coconut oil and three drops of organic clove oil. Just mix the two, take a gulp, gargle, and spit it out. Make sure to rinse your mouth properly. Do this for about ten minutes.

Another mouthwash recipe you could use involves 1 cup warm distilled water, 2 drops clove oil, 2 drops tea tree, 1 drop oregano oil, 2 tsp salt, and a glass bottle. Mix all the ingredients and make sure they dissolve fully. Use this as a mouthwash and make sure you do not swallow.

What dietary changes can I make to help

Oral thrush is caused by Candida Albicans, which are found throughout the body. There is a recommended diet that is said to help treat this type of bacteria. However, it is important to note that it is not scientifically proven. 

Under the diet, you need to avoid sugar, gluten, harmful additives. It is important to stick to low sugar foods and gluten-free foods. It is said that a very high sugar intake can make the infection worse. Lactose as well is cut out of this diet as it may also worsen the infection. The diet is an anti-inflammatory one. Anything that can potentially add to the infection is cut out. You can begin your diet with a cleanse where you drink lemon water to deal with different bacteria. 

You can also begin to eat more steamed vegetables as well as a bit of protein every day. Sugar is a difficult thing for a lot of people to let go of. If this is an adjustment you need to make, then you can give yourself a break and so gradually rather than gold turkey. Remember that changing your diet does not need to be for a long time. It is up until your symptoms clear up. Think about this when you are debating what steps to take and what is sustainable for you.

Thyme Vs. Oregano Vs. Basil

Thyme, oregano, and basil essential oils are effective against oral thrush. Understanding their differences is crucial.

Thyme and oregano essential oils contain high thymol concentrations, known for antibacterial and antifungal properties.

Basil essential oil, often overlooked, has eugenol and linalool, with antifungal and anti-inflammatory benefits, making it a potential ally against oral thrush.

Other ways to treat oral thrush

There are different ways to treat oral thrush. One of these ways is using saltwater. It has antiseptic properties, and it cleanses you as well. Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in 1 cup of warm water and use this to gargle. You can also dissolve half a teaspoon of baking soda in one cup of hot water and use it as a mouthwash.

Yogurt is a probiotic food, and it is well known for its ability to deal with bacteria, which is no different. When you first begin to see the first signs of thrush, you can indulge in eating yogurt! Yum! Now there’s a fun treatment. 

You can also use turmeric. An age-old spice that you probably have in your cupboard already. Mix a quarter to half a teaspoon of turmeric, black pepper, and 1 cup of filtered milk. Heat the mixture and swirl it around your mouth as you drink it.

Safety Precautions

Here are essential safety guidelines for using essential oils to treat oral thrush:

1. Dilution: Always dilute essential oils with a carrier oil before application. Undiluted oils can be harsh.
2. Patch Test: Test on a small area for allergies before use, especially if it’s your first time.
3. Avoid Swallowing: Don’t swallow the mixture; spit it out to prevent harm.
4. Consult a Pro: If you have health issues or plan to use oils on children, consult a healthcare professional first.
5. Clean Applicator: Ensure applicators are clean to prevent contamination.
6. Moderation: Use essential oils moderately to avoid irritation or adverse reactions.
7. Eye Contact: Avoid contact with eyes; rinse with water if contact occurs.
8. Proper Storage: Store oils in a cool, dark place, away from kids, to maintain potency and safety.
9. Quality Matters: Choose pure, reputable essential oils to avoid additives or contaminants.
10. Discontinue for Irritation: If irritation occurs, stop use and seek medical advice if needed.
11. Consult a Pro for Persisting Issues: If oral thrush doesn’t improve or worsens, consult a healthcare professional. Remember, essential oils complement but don’t replace medical treatment. Prioritize safety and consult a healthcare provider for health concerns.

Reference Links 

https://www.healthline.com/health/home-remedies-for-thrush

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4054083/