(NaturalNews) The battle against candida is familiar to many. Some struggle for years with fatigue, weight gain and recurring infections, only to be told by doctors that it's "all in your head." The luckier ones realize the cause behind their symptoms early on, only to be handed endless prescriptions for drugs that eventually aren't enough to fight back. Candida has become increasingly resistant to pharmaceutical antifungal drugs. It is more important than ever to turn to natural methods like olive leaf extract and finally turn the tables on candida.
Widespread use of olive leaf is fairly new; it was first made available to practitioners in 1995. However, studies showing the benefits of olive leaf have been conducted since the 1960's and 70's, such as one study in Hungary which showed olive leaf to be highly effective in combating illnesses caused by viruses and bacteria.
Oleuropein is the active component in olive leaf extract (and also what gives uncured olives their bitter flavor). Enzymes in the body convert oleuropein into elolenic acid, which enhances immunity so the body can effectively destroy viruses, pathogenic bacteria, and fungi.
Experts like Dr. Morton Walker, author of Olive Leaf Extract, believe this potent herb to be a far superior solution for candida than common medical remedies. He states that olive leaf extract has the unique ability to actually kill fungi instead of just inhibiting their growth. This is what makes olive leaf extract such a powerful weapon against candida.
In addition, olive leaf is regarded as safe and nontoxic in the recommended doses, quite unlike pharmaceutical remedies which can cause a slew of negative side effects, including damaging liver and heart health.
Olive leaf extract is most often taken in capsules, which should be standardized to as much as 20 percent oleuropein. The higher the level of oleuropein, the less capsules need to be taken for optimal results. Common dosage levels range from four to twelve 500 mg capsules of olive leaf extract standardized to 20 percent oleuropein. Start with a lower dose and work upward as needed.
A Note About Olive Leaf and Candida:
Many people with candida experience die-off symptoms when they use olive leaf extract. This occurs when mass amounts of candida throughout your system die off at the same time. Symptoms are typically flu-like, such as headaches, chills and foggy thinking. This usually only last a few days.
Elizabeth Walling is a freelance writer specializing in health and family nutrition. She is a strong believer in natural living as a way to improve health and prevent modern disease. To learn more about getting healthy and fit through a nourishing diet and healthy living, visit Elizabeth's blog: www.livingthenourishedlife.com