Thrush: Effective Home Remedies & Prevention - Mayo Clinic

Thrush is a fungal infection that usually occurs in the mouth, and results from a change in the balance of bacteria and yeast in the body that normally keep the fungus under control. Thrush can be spread between people, especially between a mother and her breastfeeding infant, who may reinfect each other without treatment. Consider this information from the Mayo Clinic about home remedies for treating thrush.

Yogurt

• Eating unsweetened or sugar-free yogurt with active cultures is a home remedy for treating thrush in adults as well as children.

Acidophilus

• Taking acidophilus capsules as a dietary supplement can shorten the duration of thrush and help prevent reinfection.

Garlic

• Eating foods with fresh raw or cooked garlic, or taking garlic dietary supplements, can prevent thrush from growing.

Nursing Pads

• Women who are breastfeeding can treat thrush on the breast by using cotton or wool breast pads to absorb leaking milk that encourages the growth of thrush.

Dietary Changes

• Decreasing the amount of fermented foods, such as breads, beer and wine, can reduce the ability of thrush to grow.

Dental Hygiene

• Proper hygiene of your mouth and teeth, including brushing and flossing as recommended by your dentist, can help to get rid of thrush.

Saltwater

• Frequent rinsing of your mouth with 1/2 tsp. of salt in an 8-oz. glass of water can prevent the growth of thrush in your mouth.