Evidence supporting the use of: Coconut oil
For the health condition: Fungal Infections

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Coconut oil has scientifically documented antifungal properties, primarily attributed to its high content of medium-chain fatty acids such as lauric acid and caprylic acid. Several in vitro studies have shown that coconut oil can inhibit the growth of various fungal species, most notably Candida albicans, which is responsible for many human fungal infections, including oral thrush and vaginal yeast infections. For example, a study published in the journal mSphere (2015) demonstrated that coconut oil was highly effective at reducing Candida colonization in mice. Other lab-based studies have found similar inhibitory effects against dermatophytes (fungi that cause skin infections) and other yeasts.

Despite promising laboratory findings, clinical research in humans is limited. There are a few small-scale clinical studies and case reports suggesting coconut oil may help manage mild skin and mucosal fungal infections, especially as a topical agent. However, the evidence is not robust enough to recommend coconut oil as a primary or sole therapy for serious or systemic fungal infections. Most guidelines still favor established antifungal medications, though coconut oil is sometimes used as a complementary or adjunct approach.

In summary, while scientific evidence—primarily from laboratory studies—supports the antifungal activity of coconut oil, more high-quality clinical trials are needed to fully validate its effectiveness in treating fungal infections in humans. The current evidence base rates a 3 out of 5 on the strength scale.

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