Abstract
BACKGROUND: Oropharyngeal candidiasis (OPC) is a prevalent fungal infection primarily caused by Candida species, notably Candida albicans, posing significant health challenges. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has gained attention due to its multifaceted pharmacological properties and lower incidence of adverse effects compared to conventional treatments. OBJECTIVE: This article aims to explore the application of TCM in OPC therapy and elucidate the potential molecular mechanisms underlying its efficacy. DESIGN: A comprehensive analysis of relevant studies and research findings was conducted to investigate the bioactive components of TCM and their mechanisms of action. RESULTS: The analysis reveals that TCM exerts beneficial effects through inhibition of fungal growth, regulation of immune responses, and enhancement of oral microecological balance. CONCLUSIONS: TCM offers a holistic approach to managing OPC, leveraging its multifaceted mechanisms to address this common yet troublesome infection effectively.