34 Anticancer Foods

Top 34 Anti-Cancer Foods image to repin / share
Graphic © herbshealthhappiness.com. Photo © 5ph – Fotolia.com (under license)

Introduction

(Note – this list originally appeared as part of the Anticancer Herbs page on this site – but due to the significant size of the page, we decided to divide them into two pages, one for “herbs” and one for “foods”. Please see the introduction to that page for an explanation of the goal of these pages and help with the technical terms used. Also, note that spices such as turmeric appear on the “herbs” page. )

Please note – the purpose of this page is not to attempt to persuade you that “these foods will cure you of cancer“. We are not making any medicinal claims here! It is important to understand this. The foods listed here have been indicated by various researches to have some preventative / protective or direct cytotoxic effect against cancer cells, often in in vitro lab tests – however some have in vivo study refs and even human studies.

However there is a lot more work to do by our good people of science before these can in general be considered “proven” to counteract cancer in humans – though these are most definitely some healthy foods and widely considered beneficial to health!

The purpose of this page is simply to present as much information as possible on the subject, in order that the person interested in the possibility of anti-cancer foods may be assisted in “doing their homework”. See this page as a “starting point” for research or investigation. I’ve cited all references that I have found. A disclaimer is written in the small print at the foot of this page in greater detail, but it is expedient to repeat it: This page is not medical advice, nor is it intended to substitute for professional medical consultation.

List of claimed Anticancer Foods / active components

Avocado

Studies have found antiproliferative and apoptosis effects of avocado on oral, prostate and other cancer cells. https://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?term=avocado%20cancer

Food source	Anthocyanin content (mg per 100g)
Purple Corn	1,642
Chokeberry	1,480
Red Grape	888
Eggplant	750
Black Raspberry	589
Wild Blueberry	558
Raspberry	365
Cherry	350-400
Açaí Berry	320
Marion Blackberry	317
Blackcurrant	190-270
Redcurrant	80-420
Orange	~200
Red wine	24-35

Anthocyanins (Berries, currants, eggplant, orange, red grapes, red wine, purple corn & more)

Anthocyanins are molecules belonging to the flavonoid class, and are pigments appearing red, purple or blue. These substances are found in plant tissues, particularly in red, blue, purple or black fruits. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anthocyanin Berries such as blueberry, bilberry, cranberry, elderberry, raspberry and strawberry are anthocyanin rich and have been found by researchers to have anti-carcinogenic effects: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14972022

Black raspberries have been shown to inhibit promotion and progression of tumor cells –
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anthocyanin#Research These studies have now reached the human trial stages – https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17574861https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16800781

Much research has bene done in this field – list of papers here – https://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?term=cancer%20anthocyanins

To the right is a list of some of the foods with the highest anthocyanin content: (sourced from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anthocyanin)

Beta-Carotene (sweet potatoes, carrots, cantaloupe, pumpkins, butternut / other winter squash, spinach, broccoli, pink grapefruit, mango, papaya and more).

Although named after carrots, beta-carotene also occurs in a number of other fruits and vegetables. It is a red-orange pigment and is the substance that colors the carrots orange. Beta-carotene is a precursor to vitamin A in the body. Source – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beta-Carotene

Beta-carotene is reported to have cancer preventative and tumor necrosis properties. Source – https://askdrsears.com/topics/family-nutrition/anticancer/12-dietary-changes-will-lower-your-cancer-risk Studies have shown that carotenoids possess the capacity for scavenging of DNA-damaging free radicals, suppression of angiogenesis, inhibition of cell proliferation and apoptosis induction. Source – https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21466428 Much more here – https://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?term=%22beta%20carotene%22%20cancer

Note – excessive consumption of Beta-carotene, particularly associated with supplementation / use as a food coloring, has possible adverse health effects and excess beta-carotene, once stored in the liver, cannot be converted by the body to vitamin A. In particular, excessive beta-carotene is linked to increased lung cancer risk in smokers. Source – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beta-Carotene

Coffee

Some good news for coffee drinkers – in a 2011 study, caffeic acid, found in not only coffee but also olive oil and some fruits and vegetables, has been discovered to have a “potent anticancer effect” on the HT-1080 human fibrosarcoma cell line. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21116690

Cruciferous vegetables (i.e. Broccoli, cabbage, brussels sprouts etc)

The cruciferous vegetables are vegetables of the Brassicaceae family. The family includes Broccoli, cabbage, brussels sprouts, bok choi, cauliflower, chinese cabbage, arugula, kale and others. Source – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cruciferous_vegetables

Lots of recent scientific research, some from prestigious labs, much very recent, supporting anticancer properties of various cruciferous vegetables. Sulforaphane, found in cruciferous vegetables, has been found to suppress proliferation of KPL-1 human breast cancer cells and induce apoptosis:
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21617865
Lists of studies here – https://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?term=broccoli%20cancer
and here – https://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?term=cruciferous%20cancer

In other research, consumption of cruciferous vegetables has been associated with reduced cardiovascular disease. Source – https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21593509

Fish

Fish containing eicosapentaenoic acid have correlated with reduced cancer risk. This effect has been found to be increased in combination with lycopene (see tomatoes). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18708285

Flax

Numerous scientific studies showing encouraging results for lignans extracted from flaxseed oil, particularly with breast cancer cells. Studies here – https://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?term=flax%20cancer
Interestingly, flaxseed oil was found to enhance the tumor-reducing effects of Trastuzumab, an anticancer drug, in a 2010 study from te University of Toronto. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20580760

Garlic (Allium sativum)

Numerous scientific papers, many recent, report positively on investigation into anticancer effects of garlic and extracted compounds. https://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?term=garlic%20cancer

Grapeseed

In a study of 35,239 male residents of Washington state aged 50-76, use of grapeseed supplements was associated with a 41% reduced risk of prostate cancer. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21598177

Lots of encouraging research around grapeseed in the cancer prevention arena – more here https://naturalnews.com/033754_grape_seed_extract_cancer_prevention.html

Mushrooms

Certain mushrooms contain polysaccharides which are reported to be beneficial in strengthening the immune system. Other compounds in mushrooms are also thought to have anticancer effects. Mushrooms reported as anticancer include:
Phellinus rimosus, Ganoderma oregonense (“Lacquer Fungus”), Coprinopsis cinerea, Tricholomopsis rutilans (“Plums and Custard”), Coprinellus disseminatus (“Crumble Cap”) source for the above – https://healing-mushrooms.net/archives/phellinus-rimosus-berk-pilat.html, Shiitake, maitake, reishi (Ganoderma lucidum), Agaricus blazei Murill, and Coriolus versicolor. Source – https://cancure.org/cancer_fighting_foods.htm

More research here – https://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?term=mushroom%20anticancer

Important note – mushrooms should only be wild harvested by true experts who can identify toxic species accurately!

Olives / Olive oil

Part of the “mediterranean diet”, olive oil has been associated with a lower incidence of colorectal cancer. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17999988 Several substances in olive oil may contribute to its anticancer effects – https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18069902

Several other studies – https://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?term=%22olive%20oil%22%20anticancer

Oranges and Lemons

Oranges an lemons contain limonene which is reported to stimulate cancer killing immune cells. Source – https://cancure.org/cancer_fighting_foods.htm

Papaya

Papaya extract found to have antiproliferative effect on breast cancer cell line MCF-7: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19468947

Seaweed

Substances such as polysaccharides / phlorotannins from some seaweeds have been found to have anticancer properties. Studies here –

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20803523 – Ecklonia cava Kjellman
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19735177 – Hizikia fusiforme
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18651721 – Champia feldmannii
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18004241 – Fucoidan (polysaccharide found in brown seaweed) – also see https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/2476696
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/4069551Undaria pinnantifida

Soy

Although some consider soy controversial, it has been claimed that Japanese women whose diets contain much soy are four times less likely to die of breast cancer than American women. Even among the Japanese, those who eat the most soy get the least cancer. Source – https://askdrsears.com/topics/family-nutrition/anticancer/12-dietary-changes-will-lower-your-cancer-risk The article referenced also suggests to eat more whole-soy products and not to rely on processed soy products such as soy burgers, soy sauce, and soy beverages.

Soy contains isoflavones and these have been found to induce apoptosis (cell death) in cancer cells in lab tests. Much research here – https://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?term=soy%20anticancer

The isoflavone in soy that is reported to have the greatest anticancer properties is genistein. Soy flakes, soy nuts, soy flour and roasted soybeans have the highest content of genistein, with soy milk, soy burgers and tofu having the least. Source – https://askdrsears.com/topics/family-nutrition/anticancer/12-dietary-changes-will-lower-your-cancer-risk

Tapioca (Cassava)

Not tapioca itself, but the plant from which it is made, was the subject of some interesting research which I thought worthy of mention.
Genetic material from the plant was used to create a treatment that killed a brain tumor in vivo: https://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/317467.stm

Tea (Camellia sinensis)

Tea contains Polyphenols, which have been the focus of much interest from anticancer research studies. Green, black, white and other teas are all made from the plant Camellia sinensis, but are created by different post-harvest processes and have widely differing polyphenol content. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21538852
Enzymatic oxidation causes the tea to darken. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tea

Catechins found in green teahave been found to ” possess remarkable therapeutic potential against various types of human cancer cells in vitro and in vivo models”. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21725973 Much research has been done in this field – 1,470 search results on Pubmed – https://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?term=%22green%20tea%22%20cancer

Much of the cancer research on tea has focused on green tea; however black tea has been much researched and shown promise – https://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?term=%22black%20tea%22%20cancer Also a few interesting papers have appeared on white tea – such as https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17571968 .

Tomatoes

Lycopene, a substance found in tomatoes, is considered an antioxidant. It has also been found to have some anticancer activity. A number of papers on this – https://ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed?term=lycopene%20anticancer Interestingly, it is reported that oils must be consumed with the tomato for proper absorption. This has been seen as a vindication of the “mediterranean diet” – itself a subject of anticancer research. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15482626

Wu Xing Soup

Something of an obscure one, this. As far as I can ascertain, Wu Xing Soup (difficult to find information on it) means “five flavors” soup. Wuxing / Wu Xing is the Chinese name for the Taoist system of five elements (wood, fire, earth, metal, water) – but is also the name for a region, so I am not sure of the connotation. According to https://dictall.com/indu/064/0633511167E.htm Wuxing soup is “made of burdock, white radish, carrot, dry mushroom and the leaves of white radish“, and has a legend of antitumor effect in folk medicine.

What I did manage to find, however, was that it has been the subject of research for anticancer properties. I found two papers reporting on anticancer properties of Wuxing soup – and these are listed below:

“The anti-tumour effect of Wuxing soup and its mechanism in inducing apoptosis of tumour cells mediated by calcium” –
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19180961

“The anti-tumour effect of Wuxing soup and its effect on the immunity of melanoma mice” – https://medicine-hygiene.idnwhois.org/download.php?aid=83211

(more soon). See also Anticancer Herbs

Top 10 Most Amazing Herbal / Natural Remedies For Colds And Flu: A Definitive Guide

PLEASE SHARE this important info and help people to become aware that there are awesome natural alternatives to medications.

Herbal remedies have stood the test of time; whereas many of the patent medicines currently in use have only been around for a few years – who can tell what the long term effects will be?

After much research, we have “narrowed down” our list of cold / flu remedies to 10 of the best.

The more scientific among you will be pleased to see that we have backed up our findings with numerous links to peer-reviewed scientific papers. Herbal remedies are not just folk tales, but more and more are being discovered by science to have tremendous potential!

One more tip – If possible, prepare the remedies yourself using the finest fresh, clean, carefully chosen organic ingredients!
Fresh is best – and you are also in control. You can also be sure that what you are making does not contain toxic preservatives etc. –
however you will of course need to be sure that you keep your preparations fresh and discard what is not used in time.

Here they are, then – in no particular order. Enjoy! (Note – the information on this page has not been evaluated by the FDA is not a substitute for professional medical advice.)

1. Elderberry (Sambucus nigra)

A cold / flu remedy with a “cult following”, elderberry has been highly regarded since ancient times as one of the most powerful remedies against influenza, herpes and colds – either before or during infection.

This tradition has been upheld by several very positive scientific trials – a couple of examples:

One randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled trial (2004) found influenza recovery times cut by an average of 4 days across 60 patients – a very impressive result.

A 2009 In vitro (lab) study also found that Elderberry flavonoids prevented infection with the dangerous H1N1 (“swine flu”) strain.

SAFETY NOTE: Elderberry is generally considered safe but if you are collecting your own berries, you MUST know your species, because some red berried Elders are poisonous.

2. Master Tonic

The “Master Tonic” also appears to have something of a “cult following” who swear by its effectiveness against colds, fever, drug-resistant bacterial ailments and more. Proponents rave about it – calling it “a modern day plague formula….It stimulates maximum blood circulation, while putting the best detoxifying herbs into the blood…. it has helped to turn around the deadliest diseases.”

This fiery recipe calls for all fresh ingredients and combines the following:

Garlic cloves, white onions, ginger root, horseradish root, cayenne or hot peppers (habanero, serrano, jalapeno etc) and raw apple cider vinegar (i.e. Bragg’s).

Appropriate care should be taken preparing hot peppers – gloves should be worn and extreme care should be taken not to touch the eyes or other sensitive areas. A jar is filled 3/4 full with the solid ingredients (grated / finely chopped) then raw apple cider vinegar is poured in, filling the jar up to the top. The tonic is left for 14 days, strained, bottled and stored in dark glass bottles. Due to the vinegar content the preparation is reported to be able to be stored for a long period of time.

One thing I didn’t know before researching this was that hot peppers are very high in vitamin C – green chillies provide one of the highest levels of vitamin C by weight – 242.5mg (404% DV) per 100 gram serving. (source)

Here are two (slightly varying) Master Tonic recipes with many excellent additional tips:
https://heal-thyself.ning.com/profiles/blogs/master-tonic-101

https://likeamustardseed.com/2012/09/27/preparing-for-the-season-of-colds-master-tonic/

3. Honey Lemon Ginger Cinnamon Tea

An easy-to-prepare, soothing, fun and delicious traditional cold remedy. Use fresh, organic ingredients and raw local honey for best results:

1 teaspoon honey.
1/8-1/4 teaspoon cinnamon.
A few slices of fresh lemon.
A few thin slices of fresh ginger.

I typically slice the lemon and ginger straight into a mug, fill with boiling water then mix in the honey and the cinnamon and let steep for a few minutes. If you wish to filter out the bits or make more than 1 cup, I would suggest preparing in a small pan. Measure the “right amount” of water by pouring fresh water in to the pan from the mugs you are going to be using – then boil the water and switch off the heat before adding the other ingredients. Pour through a tea strainer.

4. Garlic

Belief in the healing qualities of Garlic is widespread. Most people use it in cuisine, however it is often considered to have medicinal benefits – typically being regarded as a blood cleanser, tonic and as a remedy for colds and flu.

Although often fried in food, it can also be steamed (5-7 minutes) which will preserve the nutrients better, or eaten raw if you are feeling brave! For those who do not like the smell it is possible to get capsules of garlic oil.

Despite the popularity of garlic and the tradition of use
against colds, science is as yet far from convinced of its effectiveness: A UK study on 146 volunteers from 2001 found garlic effective in preventing colds, however many more recent studies are critical – returning a verdict of “insufficient evidence”.

5. Feverfew

There is a growing body of research to support the traditional “multipurpose” use of Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium L.) for many ailments – especially the treatment of fevers and colds – but also others including migraine headaches, rheumatoid arthritis, stomach aches, toothaches, insect bites, infertility, problems with menstruation and labor during childbirth, psoriasis, allergies, asthma, tinnitus, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting.

Feverfew has been in use since ancient times, being known to early European and Greek herbalists and is widely cultivated around the world.

6. Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea) + Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis)

(golden seal = liver / blood cleanser)

One of the most popular herbal remedies, the combination of Echinacea and Goldenseal is the “standard” echinacea cold formula that many go for.

It is thought by herbalists that the combination of the two herbs together is more effective – and the popularity of the combination may be an indicator of efficacy. An article on health.com reported on one Bob Martin:

“…Bob Martin says he hasn’t caught a cold in years, not since he discovered echinacea and goldenseal. For the past decade, the 60-year-old teacher from Placitas, N.M., has taken the herbal supplements in megadoses three times a day at the first sign of a sniffle. Now he only gets sick if he doesn’t dose himself in time, he says. “It’s been years since I’ve had a cold,” says Martin. “I take the herbs, climb under the blanket, and I’m fine the next day. They nip it in the bud.”…”

Recent scientific research into Goldenseal has found antibaterial effects: A 2012 study found Goldenseal effective against the MRSA “superbug”. Another study noted that the roots and aerial parts of the plant worked synergistically to enhance antibacterial activity.

Note – Goldenseal should not be used long term. (source)

I have also included a different Echinacea recipe below (#8) together with some of the Echinacea scientific reports.

7. Ginseng (P. quinquefolium)

Ginseng root is more commonly considered as a tonic, adaptogen and energy booster, however North American ginseng (P. quinquefolium) is showing considerable potential as an anti-cold herb. A human trial found that ginseng, taken daily, had a both a preventative effect on colds and a reduction in symptoms – with symptoms being reported on 34.5% less days in total than in the placebo group! That’s a very significant benefit. Ginseng is commonly available as either a powder or tincture.

Here’s a very highly 5-star reviewed ginseng supplement on Amazon that contains Chinese Ginseng, American Ginseng, Panax Ginseng and royal jelly!

8. Oregano + Reishi + Echinacea tinctures

My own personal fav cold / flu remedy: A combination of reishi, oregano leaf and echinacea tinctures in a small glass of warm water.

I usually put about 20-30 drops of each tincture, which is around half a dropper full, in around 4oz of warm (not too hot) water – 4 times per day. Tastes bitter but is worth it (warm water improves taste significantly & also is said to increase efficacy).
After 2 or 3 doses (a few hours apart) I sometimes find that the symptoms have gone away so thoroughly that I forget to take it the next day and they come creeping back!! (until I take the mixture again).

I find I have to take it for a few days until the “storm has passed” and then I’m all good. In the last couple of years I have found that this knocks out cold type things about 75% of the time. I have introduced it to other friends who now “swear by it”. And the person who introduced it to me…? I have known her to have just one cold in nearly 4 years – despite her having a daughter in school and having a very irregular sleep pattern. She studied herbalism under a “master herbalist” and attributes her immune strength to herbs – including both Oregano leaf and other “deep immune tonics”.

One thing I have noticed is that my “secret weapon” seems to work best when taken immediately at the first sign of symptoms. Just a few days ago I felt that “Uh oh, I am going down with something” feeling and immediately took oregano, echinacea and reishi. Within a few hours I was completely back to normal. On other occasions where I was not able to access the herbs right away, they were not as effective once the symptoms had “taken hold”.

Oregano Leaf (Origanum vulgare) has become a very popular herbal remedy of late as people are rediscovering its potential as an antiviral / antibacterial. There are also reports of people taking it for stomach bugs with great success – and this claim is validated by the latest scientific research, which has found Oregano (and Lemongrass) to be highly effective against Salmonella in lab tests. Some have suggested oregano essential oil, appropriately diluted with a carrier oil, rubbed on the soles of the feet, though I have not tried this. Here’s “Oregano Spirits” Herbal Tincture on Amazon

Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) is a species of mushroom, revered in the Orient since very ancient times, which has been found to have all manner of antiviral and other positive effects by several scientific studies; including action against HIV, herpes, influenza, diabetes and breast cancer cells! Click here to look at Reishi on Amazon. (Herb Pharm is a great brand in my view):
Reishi Mushroom Liquid Extract 1 fl oz (29.6 ml) Liquid

Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea) has long been considered to be effective against the common cold. The latest large-sale scientific trials in the UK (2012) have validated Echinacea’s effectiveness in not only reducing the occurrence of colds, but in reducing their recurrence. Not only that, but adverse “side effects” were less with Echinacea than with the placebo. Recent research (2012) has also found Echinacea effective against human colon cancer cells!

9. Eucalyptus Oil

Eucalyptus oil has been well known for its antiseptic
qualities for some time. It is even reported to be diffused in hospitals in Australia – which is interesting as the most recent research has found it active in vitro against some serious pathogens – notably “hospital-aquired staph” MRSA, E coli and other nasties.

Common ways to use eucalyptus include using an oil diffuser, or in steam – notably by putting a few drops on the floor of the shower (be careful not to make it slippery if the floor is smooth!), or putting a few drops in a bowl of very hot water and breathing the steam. If you have a cold, steam can help with congestion, helping clear the nose.

Some are making their own vapor disks for placing on the floor of the shower and it is thought that regular inhalation of the vapor may have a preventative effect.

Others rub the essential oil (diluted appropriately with a carrier oil) into the chest or soles of the feet, or use a home-made version of “Vicks”.

I researched on Amazon and found a low cost organic Eucalyptus oil which had a high ratio of “5 star reviews” – Organic Eucalyptus Essential Oil. 10 ml. 100% Pure, Undiluted.

10. Last but not least…. Vitamins

Vitamins C and D are considered most valuable in immune support.

Vitamin C is highly regarded as an immune booster and assistant to the body in healing and fighting sickness of many kinds. Vitamin C is commonly known to be found in citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons and cherries – however did you know that it is also found in high quantities in Thyme, Parsley, Broccoli, chili peppers, rosemary and…. pine needles?

Yes, pine needles contain 4 to 5 times as much vitamin C by weight as fresh squeezed orange juice! Not that you would eat that many – but here’s a recipe for pine needle tea.

The only caution typically advised with vitamin C is not to take too high a dose – as 2,000mg can cause stomach upset. You can also opt for liposomal vitamin C – which appears not to have the negative effect on the stomach and thus allows stronger doses without this side effect. My personal view is that either liposomal vit C or fresh, organic fruit is the way forward. Organic fruit is often found higher in anthocyanins, vitamin C and other nutrients than non-organic.

Article © herbshealthhappiness.com

Top 10 Most Amazing Herbal / Natural Remedies For Colds And Flu – image to repin / share
Graphic © herbshealthhappiness.com. Photo © Adobe Stock (under license)

Note as always; this website is not medical advice

10 Antifungal Herbs

Top 10 Antifungal Herbs image to repin / share
Graphic © herbshealthhappiness.com. Photo © Adobe Stock (under license)

Approximately over 1 billion people are afflicted by fungal infections annually. While many of these are considered mild infections, this figure nonetheless shows no signs of slowing down. Candida, a genus of yeasts, is one of the more common fungal overgrowths that can infect almost any part of your body. Moreover, fungal infection is not just confined as a human condition. Fungus can also exist pretty much anywhere outside the human body – including in food. Food contamination for instance can occur in meat and milk products that may be easily transferred to humans. ^[1]

Several known anti-fungal treatments exist today, including incorporating special diet regimens. However, you should not immediately take any radical steps without proper medical consultation. Like any other herb, anti-fungal herbs may possess intrinsic benefits but their results can be experienced the fullest and best when applied or ingested at the correct frequency and amount.

While scientific data on anti-fungal herbs is still somewhat modest, there is no shortage of herbs which are reported to treat yeast and fungal infections. Regardless of whether you’re looking to combat or prevent fungal growth, several herbs have been identified to possess anti-fungal properties. 10 of these are described below. Note – as always, this site is not medical advice.

10 Antifungal Herbs

Goldenseal

This popular herb in North America gained its reputation as a cure-all for any kind of ailment due to the recommendation of a prominent doctor in the 1800’s, Samuel Thompson. ^[2] And fighting fungi is definitely one of those. Studies have confirmed that the rhizome, rootlets and root hairs of goldenseal contain berberine which has been shown to promote anti-fungal activities.
^[3]

Oregano Leaf oil

If you suffer from fungal infections on your nails or have fungal skin infections like dandruff and dermatitis, ^[4] then diluted oregano oil may be a solution. Scientists have identified Carvacrol and Thymol (this latter is also prevalent in thyme, as the name suggests) as the anti-microbial agents in Oregano oil responsible for attacking germs and fungi in your bloodstream.
^[2] One study has likewise identified these volatile compounds to prevent fungal growth among bakery products ^[5] – a further reason for the use of such herbs in culinary applications.

Cloves

This spice has been shown to contain the same compounds as oregano oil essential for combating mouth and intestinal infections of Candida, alleviating athlete’s foot while strengthening your immune system. ^[2] A study has revealed that oil extracts of cloves
possess anti-microbial activities against all bacteria and yeast tested. ^[6]

Black walnut

Canker sores, painful syphilis and herpes are reported to be targeted by black walnut. ^[4] Some researchers even have discovered that black walnut husks have superior anti-fungal characteristics to fight Candida over medicinal drugs. ^[2] Studies have suggested that by making your intestines more alkaline, black walnut not just kills fungi but also parasites that often thrive in an acidic environment. ^[7] More recently, a 2012 study using mouse skin epidermal cells concluded that juglone from black walnut trees contains some anti-cancer efficacy. ^[8]

Olive leaf extract

Several studies have shown that the active ingredient in olive leaf extracts, oleuropein, is effective in fighting fungal overgrowth caused by candida. ^[7] Olive oil works by boosting your immunity against unhealthy invaders like Candida and lowering your blood sugar levels to avoid yeast infections. ^[2] Another study of 10 different plant extracts in Islamic medicine including olive leaf extracts stated that these can protect against pathogenic and mycotoxigenic fungi, both in qualitative and quantitative assessments. ^[1]

Calendula

Also known as Scottish marigold or pot marigold, calendula is a wonder herb that has long history of medical and therapeutic uses across the globe. Several pharmacological studies have revealed that this herb contains substances that bring about anti-inflammatory, antiviral and antifungal properties. ^[9] A 2012 study indicated that ethanol extracts of calendula exhibited “excellent antifungal activity”. ^[10]

Calendula and its components are believed to be capable of destroying fungi completely. In addition to its innate ability to promote faster healing of wounds, calendula is widely used to treat various conditions that are triggered by fungal infestation like athlete’s foot, candida and ringworm. ^[11]

Garlic

Since the ancient times, garlic has been rampantly used as a natural treatment for a wide range of health conditions. In the last three decades, numerous studies have been conducted to identify the constituents of garlic which makes it an effective antibacterial, antiparasitic and antifungal agent. Researchers finally concluded that it is ajoene which is a powerful compound that makes garlic an excellent anti-fungal herb. ^[12]

Some studies claimed that allicin is what makes the herb effective. Allicin is a potent phytochemical that is released after garlic is chopped or crushed. After crushing or chopping the clove of garlic, just leave them for five to ten minutes, to increase the amount of allicin compound released. ^[13]

Turmeric

For quite a long time now, turmeric has been considered as one of the most potent anti-fungal herbs. According to a study published on the Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy, turmeric contains curcumin – a powerful compound that has been found to inhibit the growth and spread of candida infection. One lab research (in vitro) found that curcumin worked better than drug fluconazole as an antifungal agent. ^[14] Curcumin is also used to treat athlete’s foot.

Tea Tree

Recently, oils extracted from tea tree
have been extensively studied due to its profound effects to the body. Research shows that tea tree oil can be used to treat fungal infections like jock itch, tinea barbae, tinea faciei, tinea capitis, tinea unguium, ringworm and athlete’s foot. Some also use this essential oil in treating acne, lice, eczema, boils, thrush and vaginitis. ^[15]

Spearmint

Coming from the mint family, spearmint is a perennial herb that has been cultivated since the ancient ages because of its healing and medicinal value. Several researches have confirmed that spearmint contains active substances that make the herb an effective anti-fungal agent but less powerful than oregano. ^[16]

Article researched and created by Cathy Ongking and Elfe Cabanas,
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