How can dietary changes help fight Candida infections. What foods should you incorporate to prevent yeast overgrowth. Which probiotic strains are most effective against Candida albicans. How does coconut oil’s lauric acid content impact yeast growth. Why might reducing sugar intake help control Candida populations.

Understanding Candida Yeast Infections

Candida yeast infections are a common issue affecting many individuals. These infections primarily stem from an overgrowth of Candida yeasts, with Candida albicans being the most prevalent culprit. While these microscopic fungi naturally exist on the skin, in the mouth, and the gut, they can become problematic when the body’s defenses are compromised.

When faced with a potential yeast infection, consulting a healthcare provider should be your first course of action. However, certain dietary modifications and food choices may provide additional support in managing and preventing Candida overgrowth.

The Power of Coconut Oil in Fighting Candida

Coconut oil has gained attention for its potential antifungal properties, particularly in combating Candida infections. This effectiveness is largely attributed to its high content of lauric acid, a saturated fatty acid renowned for its antimicrobial and antifungal capabilities.

Comprising nearly 50% lauric acid, coconut oil stands out as one of the richest dietary sources of this compound. Laboratory studies have demonstrated lauric acid’s potency against Candida yeasts, suggesting that coconut oil may exhibit similar effects.

Oil Pulling: A Natural Approach to Oral Candida

One intriguing application of coconut oil in fighting Candida is through oil pulling, a practice that involves using coconut oil as a mouthwash. This method may be particularly effective in addressing thrush, a Candida infection that occurs in the mouth.

Can oil pulling with coconut oil effectively combat oral Candida infections? While preliminary research is promising, it’s important to note that further human studies are necessary to conclusively confirm these benefits. Nonetheless, the high lauric acid content in coconut oil makes it a compelling natural option for those seeking to support their oral health against Candida overgrowth.

Harnessing the Power of Probiotics Against Candida

Probiotics play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy balance of microorganisms in our bodies, including keeping Candida populations in check. These beneficial bacteria are part of our natural defense system against Candida yeasts, competing for space and nutrients to prevent overgrowth.

Several factors can disrupt this delicate balance, making some individuals more susceptible to Candida infections. These include conditions like diabetes, a weakened immune system, and the use of antibiotics, which can inadvertently reduce the populations of beneficial bacteria in the gut.

Probiotic Sources and Their Efficacy

Probiotics can be found in fermented foods like yogurt with active cultures or taken as supplements. Research indicates that certain probiotic strains may be particularly effective in combating Candida infections:

• A 12-week study involving 215 older adults showed that lozenges containing two strains of Lactobacillus reuteri significantly reduced Candida yeast levels in the mouth.
• Another study with 65 thrush patients found that probiotics notably enhanced the effectiveness of conventional antifungal treatments.
• Some evidence suggests that vaginal capsules containing Lactobacillus probiotics may help fight vaginal yeast infections.

How do probiotics exert their anti-Candida effects? Probiotics work by restoring and maintaining healthy bacterial populations in the body. They compete with Candida for resources and space, effectively reducing the yeast’s ability to grow and spread. Additionally, some probiotic strains may produce substances that directly inhibit Candida growth.

The Impact of Sugar on Candida Growth

The relationship between sugar consumption and Candida growth is a topic of significant interest in the realm of yeast infection management. Research has shown that yeasts tend to proliferate more rapidly when sugar is readily available in their environment.

Elevated blood sugar levels have been linked to an increased risk of Candida infections. This connection is particularly relevant for individuals with diabetes or those consuming high-sugar diets.

Research Insights on Sugar and Candida

Several studies have explored the impact of sugar on Candida growth:

• In a mouse study, sugar was found to increase Candida growth in the digestive systems of immunocompromised subjects.
• A human study revealed that rinsing with a sucrose solution led to increased infections and higher yeast counts in the mouth.
• However, another human study found no significant effect of a high-sugar diet on Candida growth in the mouth or digestive system.

While the evidence is mixed and more research is needed, many health professionals recommend reducing sugar intake as a preventive measure against Candida overgrowth. Why might limiting sugar be beneficial in managing Candida infections? Sugar provides an easily accessible food source for Candida yeasts, potentially fueling their growth and reproduction. By reducing sugar consumption, you may be able to create a less hospitable environment for Candida proliferation.

Garlic: Nature’s Antifungal Powerhouse

Garlic has long been revered for its medicinal properties, and its potential as a natural antifungal agent is particularly noteworthy in the context of Candida infections. This pungent herb contains several compounds that exhibit antifungal properties, with allicin being one of the most potent.

The Science Behind Garlic’s Antifungal Effects

Research has demonstrated garlic’s effectiveness against various Candida species:

• Laboratory studies have shown that garlic extract can inhibit the growth of Candida albicans.
• In animal studies, garlic has been found to reduce Candida colonization in the digestive tract.
• Some human studies suggest that garlic supplements may help in managing yeast infections.

How does garlic exert its antifungal effects? Allicin, the primary active compound in garlic, works by disrupting the cell membranes of Candida yeasts. This disruption inhibits the yeast’s ability to grow and reproduce, potentially helping to control Candida populations in the body.

While incorporating garlic into your diet may offer some benefits, it’s important to note that the concentration of active compounds in dietary garlic may not be sufficient to treat an active Candida infection. Garlic supplements or more concentrated forms may be necessary for therapeutic effects, but these should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

The Role of Curcumin in Candida Management

Curcumin, the active compound found in turmeric, has gained attention for its potential antifungal properties, particularly in relation to Candida infections. This golden spice, long used in traditional medicine, may offer a natural approach to supporting the body’s defense against yeast overgrowth.

Curcumin’s Antifungal Mechanisms

Research into curcumin’s effects on Candida has revealed several potential mechanisms of action:

• Curcumin has been shown to inhibit the adhesion of Candida albicans to human cells, a crucial step in the infection process.
• Studies indicate that curcumin can disrupt the cell walls of Candida yeasts, leading to their destruction.
• Curcumin may also enhance the effectiveness of conventional antifungal medications when used in combination.

How does curcumin combat Candida infections? Curcumin’s antifungal activity appears to be multifaceted. It not only directly attacks Candida cells but also boosts the body’s immune response against the infection. Additionally, curcumin’s anti-inflammatory properties may help alleviate some of the symptoms associated with Candida overgrowth.

While incorporating turmeric into your diet may offer some benefits, achieving therapeutic levels of curcumin through diet alone can be challenging. Curcumin supplements may provide a more concentrated dose, but as with any supplement, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider before beginning a new regimen, especially if you’re managing an active Candida infection.

The Importance of a Balanced Diet in Candida Control

While specific foods and supplements may offer benefits in managing Candida infections, it’s crucial to emphasize the importance of an overall balanced diet. A well-rounded nutritional approach can support your body’s natural defenses against Candida overgrowth and promote overall health.

Key Dietary Principles for Candida Management

Consider incorporating the following dietary strategies to create an environment less favorable for Candida growth:

1. Focus on whole, unprocessed foods: These provide essential nutrients without the added sugars often found in processed items.
2. Increase fiber intake: Fiber supports gut health and may help control Candida populations in the digestive tract.
3. Include fermented foods: Beyond yogurt, consider incorporating other fermented foods like kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi to support beneficial gut bacteria.
4. Stay hydrated: Proper hydration supports overall health and helps flush toxins from the body.
5. Limit alcohol consumption: Alcohol can disrupt gut flora balance and potentially exacerbate Candida issues.

How does a balanced diet contribute to Candida control? A nutrient-rich, balanced diet supports overall immune function, promotes healthy gut flora, and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels. These factors collectively create an internal environment that is less hospitable to Candida overgrowth.

It’s important to remember that while dietary changes can be beneficial, they should not replace medical treatment for diagnosed Candida infections. Always work with a healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive approach to managing yeast overgrowth.

Navigating Candida Die-Off: What to Expect

As you implement dietary changes and natural remedies to combat Candida overgrowth, you may experience what’s known as Candida die-off, or the Herxheimer reaction. This phenomenon occurs when Candida yeast cells are rapidly killed, releasing toxins that can temporarily exacerbate symptoms.

Understanding Candida Die-Off Symptoms

Common symptoms of Candida die-off may include:

• Fatigue or flu-like symptoms
• Digestive discomfort, including nausea or bloating
• Headaches
• Skin breakouts or rashes
• Mood swings or irritability

How long does Candida die-off typically last? The duration and intensity of die-off symptoms can vary widely among individuals. Generally, symptoms may last from a few days to a few weeks as your body adjusts to the changes in Candida populations.

To manage die-off symptoms, consider the following strategies:

1. Start slowly: Gradually introduce dietary changes and natural remedies to minimize the intensity of die-off reactions.
2. Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help flush toxins from your system more efficiently.
3. Support your liver: Consider liver-supporting herbs like milk thistle to aid in toxin elimination.
4. Get plenty of rest: Allow your body time to recover and adapt to the changes.
5. Consult your healthcare provider: If symptoms are severe or persistent, seek medical advice to ensure proper management.

While Candida die-off can be uncomfortable, it’s often a sign that your efforts to combat yeast overgrowth are having an effect. However, it’s crucial to distinguish between die-off symptoms and signs of an allergic reaction or other health issues. When in doubt, always consult with a healthcare professional.

5 Diet Tips to Fight Candida Yeast Infections

5 Diet Tips to Fight Candida Yeast Infections

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Nutrition

By Atli Arnarson BSc, PhD — Updated on July 30, 2019

Yeast infections are a problem for many people.

They’re most often caused by Candida yeasts, especially Candida albicans (1).

If you think you may have a yeast infection, the first thing you should do is talk to your medical provider.

However, several foods and dietary changes may also help.

Here are 5 diet tips to fight Candida infections.

1. Coconut oil

Candida yeasts are microscopic fungi found around the skin, mouth, or gut (2).

They’re usually harmless but may cause infections when your body’s defenses are weakened.

Plants have their own defenses against yeasts and other fungi, and some produce compounds that are toxic to fungi.

A good example is lauric acid, a saturated fatty acid widely studied for its antimicrobial and antifungal effects.

Coconut oil is almost 50% lauric acid. This makes it one of the richest dietary sources of this compound, which rarely occurs in high amounts in food.

Test-tube studies suggest that lauric acid is very effective against Candida yeasts. As such, coconut oil may have similar effects (3, 4, 5).

For this reason, using coconut oil as mouthwash — a method known as oil pulling — may curb thrush, or Candida infections in your mouth.

Keep in mind that human studies are needed to confirm these benefits.

SUMMARY One of the main components of coconut oil, lauric acid, may fight Candida infections. However, human research is needed to confirm these effects.

2. Probiotics

Several factors may make some people more prone to Candida infections, including diabetes and a weakened or suppressed immune system.

Antibiotics may also increase your risk, as strong dosages sometimes kill a portion of the beneficial bacteria in your gut (1, 2).

These bacteria are a part of your body’s natural defenses against Candida yeasts. They protect against infections by competing with them for space and nutrients (6).

Probiotics may help restore these populations of beneficial bacteria (7).

Probiotics are live bacteria often found in fermented foods, such as yogurt with active cultures. They can also be taken in supplements.

Studies suggest that probiotics may fight Candida infections (8).

A 12-week study in 215 older adults showed that taking lozenges containing 2 strains of the probiotic Lactobacillus reuteri significantly reduced the amount of Candida yeasts in their mouths (9).

In another study in 65 people with thrush, taking probiotics significantly improved the effectiveness of a conventional antifungal treatment (10).

Probiotics may also reduce the growth of Candida in your gut, and some evidence indicates that vaginal capsules with Lactobacillus probiotics may combat vaginal yeast infections (11, 12, 13, 14).

SUMMARY Probiotics may reduce Candida growth and protect against infections in your mouth and gut. Vaginal capsules may also be effective.

3. A low-sugar diet

Yeasts grow faster when sugar is readily available in their environment (15, 16, 17).

In fact, high levels of sugar in your bloodstream increase your risk of Candida infections (1, 18, 19, 20).

In one study, sugar increased Candida growth in the digestive system of mice with weakened immune systems (21).

In a human study, rinsing with dissolved sugar (sucrose) has been linked to increased infections and higher yeast counts in the mouth (22).

On the other hand, another human study found that a high-sugar diet did not affect Candida growth in the mouth or digestive system (23).

However, human studies are limited, and more research is needed (24).

Even if a low-sugar diet may not always be effective against yeasts, eliminating added sugar from your diet will improve your health in many other ways.

SUMMARY Candida yeasts favor high-sugar environments. However, there’s limited evidence for the benefits of a low-sugar diet against Candida infections.

4. Garlic

Garlic is another plant food with strong antifungal properties. This is partly due to allicin, a substance that forms when fresh garlic is crushed or damaged (25).

When given to mice in high amounts, allicin seems to fight Candida yeasts at a slightly less effective level than the antifungal drug fluconazole (26).

Test-tube research also indicates that garlic extract may reduce yeasts’ ability to attach to the cells lining your mouth (27).

However, garlic provides only tiny amounts of allicin, whereas most studies use high doses.

One 14-day study in women found that taking garlic supplements in capsules did not affect vaginal yeast infections (28).

Overall, more clinical trials are needed to determine whether eating garlic has any treatment value in humans.

Nevertheless, spicing up your food with garlic is safe and healthy. It might also work well alongside conventional Candida treatments.

Keep in mind that using raw garlic in sensitive areas, such as your mouth, can be harmful and cause severe chemical burns (29, 30).

SUMMARY Allicin in garlic acts against Candida. Still, it’s unclear whether eating garlic affects yeast infections.

5. Curcumin

Curcumin is one of the main active components of turmeric, a popular Indian spice (31).

Test-tube research indicates that curcumin may kill Candida yeasts — or at least reduce their growth (32, 33, 34, 35).

Another study suggested that curcumin may reduce yeasts’ ability to attach to cells from the mouths of people with HIV. In fact, curcumin was more effective than fluconazole, an antifungal drug (36).

Nonetheless, studies are limited to test tubes. It’s unclear whether curcumin supplements have effects in humans.

SUMMARY Curcumin, one of the active components of turmeric, may kill Candida yeasts. However, human studies are needed.

The bottom line

If you think you have a yeast infection, see your medical practitioner for an antifungal medication.

If you tend to get a lot of these infections, following a healthy diet or taking supplements like probiotics may help.

On their own, these diet strategies are far from being an effective treatment. But as a preventative measure, or alongside medication, they could make a difference.

Share this article

By Atli Arnarson BSc, PhD — Updated on July 30, 2019

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7 Foods That Fight Candida

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Fatigue, yeast infections and stomach troubles? You may have candida. Candida albicans (C. albicans), a yeast that lives in the mouth, gastrointestinal tract and vagina, doesn’t cause problems at normal levels. But an overgrowth – caused by poor diet, excess alcohol intake, stress or impaired digestive function – can trigger bloating, digestive issues, rashes, yeast infections, fatigue and more.

To protect against candida overgrowth, it’s important to avoid foods like high-sugar fruits, excess carbs, alcohol and sugar in any form. Instead, you should focus on lean meats, non-starchy vegetables and healthy fats. The following 7 foods are also proven to bolster your system against candida.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is a traditional remedy to protect against candida and other fungal infections. It’s high in caprylic acid, capric acid and lauric acid, fatty acids with anti-fungal properties that help inhibit the growth of C. albicans and other pathogens. Lauric acid in coconut is also effective against mouth sores and can prevent candida infections in the mouth (thrush).

How to use it: Cook asparagus, slivered almonds, onions and garlic in coconut oil over low heat; add a tablespoon of coconut oil to any smoothie. Combine MCT coconut oil with a few drops of peppermint oil and swish in your mouth to kill yeasts.

Try: Dr. Bronner’s Fair Trade & Organic Virgin Coconut Oil

Turmeric

Turmeric contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory and anti-fungal agent that appears to inhibit the growth of C. albicans and protect against yeast infections. One study suggested curcumin hampered the ability of yeasts to attach to mouth cells and was actually more effective than fluconazole, an anti-fungal drug.

How to use it: Sauté shredded Brussels sprouts, red peppers, onions and minced ginger root with turmeric and black pepper; toss green beans in curry powder, black pepper and melted coconut oil and roast until crispy; simmer sliced turmeric root, sliced ginger root and black peppercorns in coconut milk then strain and sweeten with stevia. Or, try turmeric supplements that deliver an extra dose of curcumin.

Try: Simply Organic Ground Turmeric

Garlic

Garlic is high in allicin, a compound that’s formed when garlic cloves are crushed or chopped. Allicin has been shown to inhibit the proliferation of fungi and bacteria. Studies suggest the compound can protect against candida overgrowth. It may even reduce the ability of candida to attach to cells lining the mouth. Because allicin is damaged by heating, it’s best to eat garlic raw for maximum effectiveness.

How to use it: Crush whole garlic cloves, mix with coconut oil and minced rosemary and use on cooked vegetables. Finely mince garlic cloves and whisk together with apple cider vinegar, olive oil and minced thyme for salad dressing. Or, press garlic cloves through a garlic press and toss with cooked vegetables and olive oil.

Ginger

Ginger contains antifungal compounds called gingerol and shagelol and anti-inflammatory agents. Studies show ginger can inhibit the growth of C. albicans. In one study, an antifungal cream with added ginger was more effective at relieving yeast infections than cream without ginger.

How to use it: Simmer broccoli, cauliflower, onions, curry powder and chopped ginger root in broth and coconut milk then purée into a creamy soup.  Finely mince fresh ginger root and combine with white miso paste, apple cider vinegar and sesame oil for a creamy dressing. You can also simmer grated ginger root and zucchini “noodles” in vegetable or bone broth then top with sliced green onions, bean sprouts, chopped basil and sliced jalapeño peppers for a candida-fighting pho.

Try: Simply Organic Ground Ginger

Kimchi

Kimchi is a spicy, traditionally fermented cabbage dish that’s rich in a variety of probiotics. Those probiotics protect the gut from pathogens and, as studies show, reduce gut inflammation. Kimchi’s probiotic content also protects against overgrowth of candida yeast and may alleviate symptoms of candida. Because it’s dairy-free and also contains garlic and ginger, it’s ideal for an anti-candida diet. Other probiotic-rich, dairy-free foods include coconut kefir, miso, tempeh and traditionally prepared (unpasteurized) sauerkraut.

How to use it: Toss shredded baby spinach leaves with kimchi, black sesame seeds and chopped tomatoes for an easy salad. You can also finely chop kimchi and add it to scrambled eggs topped with cubes of avocado.

Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar has long been used as a home remedy to treat candida overgrowth and protect against yeast infections and thrush. Studies show apple cider vinegar has powerful antimicrobial activities and can inhibit the growth of C. albicans and other pathogens. It may even be more effective than nystatin, an anti-fungal drug, in preventing candida overgrowth in the mouth.

How to use it: Combine apple cider vinegar with chopped ginger, crushed garlic cloves and turmeric and let stand overnight before straining for a potent fire cider. Or, toss shredded red and green cabbage, red onions, chopped cilantro and minced serrano peppers with apple cider vinegar and olive oil for a fast slaw.

Kale

Leafy greens are high in fiber to nourish beneficial gut bacteria and help your body protect against candida overgrowth. Kale is also a crucifer, so it’s rich in compounds that may minimize the growth of C. albicans. Other nonstarchy and cruciferous vegetables for an anti-candida diet include spinach, arugula, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, broccoli, celery, green beans, cucumber, eggplant, onion and zucchini.

How to use it: Sauté chopped kale and sliced mushrooms in coconut oil then sprinkle with very finely minced garlic; toss quartered escarole and leeks in olive oil and grill until tender; cook eggplant, cauliflower and spinach until soft then purée with avocado, salt and pepper for a dairy-free dip.

Discover more about candida-fighting foods and other ways to stay healthy:

• Kick Candida With These Supplements
• Kefir Could Be Key to Combating Bad Bacteria
• MCT Oil vs. Coconut Oil: What’s the Difference?
• Apple Cider Vinegar Gummies: Health or Hype?

We independently source all of the products that we feature on cleaneatingmag.com. If you buy from the links on our site, we may receive an affiliate commission, which in turn supports our work.

Nutritional yeast species identical to pathogenic species and resistant to drugs

Prepared by Elena Kleshchenko

Candida krusei , a drug-resistant yeast species, is one of the five most common causes of clinical yeast infections (2% of all candidiasis worldwide). In immunocompromised patients, C. krusei infection is associated with high levels of morbidity and mortality. View Pichia kudriavzevii (also known as Issatchenkia orientalis and Candida glycerinogenes ) is considered safe and has long been used in food production – cassava and cocoa fermentation in Africa, milk fermentation in Tibet and Sudan, corn-based beverages in Colombia. Its strains, including genetically modified ones, are used in the production of bioethanol and valuable chemicals, such as glycerol and succinic acid. However, relatively few genetic and genomic studies of both species have been carried out so far, and there was a lot of uncertainty in the taxonomy of these genera of microscopic fungi.

To fill this gap, Alexander Douglas of University College Dublin, Ireland, and colleagues sequenced the genomes of type lines C. krusei (CBS573 ^T ) and P. kudriavzevii (CBS5147 ^T ), as well as about 30 strains of these two species collected in the clinic and in the environment. The results convincingly show that C. k rusei and P. kudriavzevii are the same species, their genomes are 9 identical9.6%. Strictly speaking, back in the 1980s, it was suggested that C. k rusei and P. kudriavzevii could be anamorphic and teleomorphic, then are asexual and sexual stages of development of one and the same of the same species, but this has now been confirmed by genomics. Phylogenetic analysis of SNPs did not allow separation of clinical and environmental isolates into separate clades. The authors concluded that the considered species should be assigned to the genus Pichia
family Pichiaceae, but with other pathogenic species Candida
he is only distantly related.

Remarkably, both pathogenic strains found in clinics and industrial strains have a fairly high resistance to antifungal drugs, in particular, to fluconazole. It follows that industrial yeast strains are capable of causing disease in humans and that safety precautions must be carefully observed when using them.

Lead author Professor Ken Wolf noted with some irony that if he proposed to use drug-resistant Candida albicans for cooking
(the most well-known causative agent of candidiasis), it would be stopped immediately, but the drug-resistant Candida krusei does not scare anyone in the food industry, because it has a different name. Alexander Douglas added that manufacturers should consider non-pathogenic species as alternatives Pichia , as well as set a limit on acceptable levels of drug resistance in strains, especially in the food industry.

Source

Alexander P. Douglass et al. // Population genomics shows no distinction between pathogenic Candida krusei and environmental Pichia kudriavzevii : One species, four names. // PLOS Pathogens, 2018; 14(7): e1007138
DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1007138

Yeast species used in food industry can cause disease in humans, study finds

# Et cetera

# Genomics

# Mycology

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Nutritional yeast can cause drug resistance

Medical Insider

July 24, 2018, 07:12 PM

Photo: Flickr Nutritional yeast can cause drug resistance used in the food industry, is genetically identical to fungal infection that causes drug resistance.

© Medical Insider

Industrial use of Candida fungi

Video of the Day

Just as bacteria become resistant to antibiotics, many fungi become resistant to antifungals. This antifungal resistance is especially serious for people with weakened immune systems. Currently, drug-resistant yeast infections are most likely caused by Candida. There are five pathogenic Candida species. The least understood in terms of genetics is Candida krusei. In comparison, Pichia kudriavzevii is considered beneficial to the body; it has been used for centuries in food production and in the fermentation process for foods such as cassava, corn drinks, and fermented milk.

In fact, the use of P. kudriavzevii has been steadily increasing in recent years due to its role in the production of bioethanol and other beneficial chemicals. Despite the importance and prevalence of both fungi mentioned above, little is known about their genetic makeup.

Materials and methods of examination

So, a group of researchers from the University College Dublin (University College Dublin) in Ireland decided to study their DNA in detail. What they found came as a surprise to both medical scientists and biotechnology experts. They published their findings in the journal PLOS Pathogens.

In total, they sequenced the genomes of 30 clinical and environmental strains of two species.

Research results

They found that P. kudriavzevii and C. krusei are essentially the same species with 99.6% DNA match. In addition, and even more disturbingly, both species showed similar resistance to antifungal drugs. In other words, P. kudriavzevii has the potential to cause serious illness in humans. The results are surprising and disturbing in equal measure.

“If I suggested using drug-resistant Candida albicans for cooking, I would be stopped immediately. But drug-resistant Candida krusei is not objected to because food manufacturers use a different name for it,” said study author Kenneth Wolfe.

Study co-author Alexander Douglass makes several recommendations: “It may be worth considering the non-pathogenic Pichia kudriavzevii species as a possible alternative for some industrial uses.