What is oral thrush, and how can it be treated naturally?

Question

I’ve been dealing with a sore mouth and white patches on my tongue, and I think I might have oral thrush. I’m not sure what caused it, but I know it’s related to a fungal infection.

What exactly is oral thrush, and why does it develop in the mouth? I read that it’s caused by an overgrowth of Candida, but what triggers the overgrowth—does it happen because of a weak immune system, antibiotics, or poor oral hygiene? Also, how can you tell the difference between oral thrush and regular mouth sores?

I also want to know how to treat oral thrush naturally. Do antifungal mouthwashes and herbal remedies like coconut oil or tea tree oil help clear up the infection? What are the best ways to prevent oral thrush from recurring, especially if it keeps coming back?

If anyone has had oral thrush, what worked best for treating it? Did you need prescription medication, or did natural remedies do the trick?

Dr. Harsha Joy · Accepted Answer

Oral thrush is a fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of Candida, a type of yeast that naturally lives in the mouth. The infection can develop when the immune system is weakened, after taking antibiotics, or due to poor oral hygiene, as these factors allow Candida to multiply unchecked. Symptoms include white patches on the tongue, inner cheeks, or roof of the mouth, along with soreness. It’s important to distinguish oral thrush from regular mouth sores, as thrush typically appears as creamy white lesions that can be scraped off, whereas mouth sores are often red and painful without a white coating. To treat oral thrush naturally, you can use antifungal mouthwashes or oils like coconut oil or tea tree oil, which have antifungal properties. Maintaining good oral hygiene, reducing sugar intake, and using probiotics can also help restore the balance of good bacteria in the mouth and prevent recurrent thrush. If natural remedies don't work, prescription antifungal medications may be needed.

What is oral thrush, and how can it be treated naturally? - #14731

Doctors’ responses

If you need a detailed answer, ask the Ayurvedic doctor your question

About our doctors

Related questions