How to Apply Gentian Violet
Gentian violet is a solution that is used as an antifungal treatment. Most commonly, it is used to treat candida albicans, which is a yeast infection related to breastfeeding. Gentian violet is used to treat both the baby's mouth and the mother's breasts. It is also sometimes used in hospitals to treat burns and fungal infections. In most cases, it works quickly and effectively to relieve symptoms. It can be found in most pharmacies without a prescription.
- Difficulty:
- Easy
Instructions
-
Treating a Fungal Infection Not Related to Breastfeeding
-
1
Dip a Q-tip in the bottle of gentian violet for a few seconds.
-
2
Swab the affected area with the Q-tip.
-
3
Repeat twice a day for three or four days.
Treating a Fungal Infection Related to Breastfeeding
-
1
Dip a Q-tip in the bottle of gentian violet for a few seconds.
-
2
Swab the nipples with the Q-tip.
-
3
Swab the baby's mouth with the gentian violet remaining on the q-tip (don't dip it again for the baby's mouth). It may be more effective if the baby sucks on the q-tip for a few seconds.
-
4
Nurse the baby immediately to distribute the gentian violet evenly throughout the baby's mouth.
-
5
Repeat twice a day for three or four days.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
An Australian study has recently linked gentian violet with cancer of the mouth, but this treatment has been used for centuries and is still recommended by medical professionals worldwide. To be on the safe side, discontinue treatment as soon as the infection is gone.
Gentian violet is messy and will stain fabric. Wear clothes that you don't mind ruining when applying the treatment. If it gets on your clothes, try removing it with rubbing alcohol.
