Detoxification Strategies for Mold & Fungal Illness

Detoxification Strategies for Mold & Fungal Illness

Author: Krista Morton-Kill

Abstract

Mold illness is often an unseen health epidemic, plaguing cases of chronic illness and autoimmunity. Of many possible root causes, mold and fungus toxicity in the body may be the root cause some of these complex cases are searching for. For the practitioner, or self-led individual, knowing the important tenets, along with effective strategies to heal for mold illness, is of utmost importance, in order to break the vicious cycle mold can create in the immune system. Familiarity with the body’s physiological processes, and how they are impaired by mold and fungus exposure, empowers the understanding of how to reverse symptoms and repair tissues. In this work, an overview of detoxification principles, as well as comprehensive directions for a recommended protocol to detoxify from mold illness, is discussed in depth.

Detoxification Strategies for Mold & Fungal Illness

Introduction

     Mold & fungal illness is a rather unseen epidemic in the health & wellness arena. Even in functional medicine, patients suffering with symptoms of mold and fungal illness are often overlooked, and sadly, do not get well for years, due to this missing piece of the puzzle. More often than not, mold illness may be misdiagnosed for allergies, asthma, autoimmune conditions, thyroid disease, MCAS, and histamine issues. While these various diagnoses may be a part of the equation in the patient’s case, the potential root cause of the problem (being mold or other toxins and infections) is not being addressed. Mold has the potential to wreak havoc on the immune system, as well as the metabolism, being that it is an immunosuppressant and obesogenic type toxin. Sadly, many of these individuals are suffering without root cause solutions or answers, because mold illness can be easily overlooked by healthcare professionals. The hope extended for the recovery of these individuals is slim to none, as there are complications in reprogramming and healing and dysfunctional, hypersensitive immune system, which can result as an outcome of chronic mold exposure and/or illness. Most experience a disheartening prognosis of managing chronic symptoms, such as those that accompany severe allergies, chronic fatigue syndrome, autoimmune conditions, and more. 

     In a meta analysis, showing the effects of different mold species, and their impact on IgE levels in the blood, along with respiratory related asthma symptoms worsening, researchers concluded that Aspergillus fumigatus and penicillium mold species were of great concern to human health. Patulin, which is a mycotoxin derivative of penicillium mold, showed to have concerning effects on the immune system and airways as well. This mycotoxin is common on many commonly consumed foods, such as wheat, oat corn, and coffee. Acknowledging these micro exposures is important in understanding the accumulative effect these spores can have in the body, especially if the body’s detoxification process isn’t functioning optimally. Of all of these mold species, Aspergillus fumigates showed to instigate the more significant allergies response, triggering the Th2 immune response in the body for most individuals who were exposed (Kraft, Buchenauer & Polte, 2021).

     These toxins are a concern in their association with autoimmune disorders. Along with these species, candida (which is in the yeast and fungus family), has been seen as a source of problematic outcomes in the autoimmune condition, multiple sclerosis (MS). Not only is autoimmune of concern, but general immune modulation can show with dysfunctions, due to the prolonged or accumulated exposures of fungal and mycotoxin infections. This was shown in a small case control study, in which the 6 patients, who were all exposed to mold and moisture, showed an elevation in their antimitochondrial antibodies (AMA). This simply means that their cellular energy is impaired by the exposures to mold and fungus, which can lead to things like autoimmunity, liver disease, or other inflammation related, systemic problems (Kraft, Buchenauer & Polte, 2021).

Reasoning & Physiological Background

     In offering more context to the physiological processes that require treatment, as well as specific strategies that accomplish these repair goals, clients and practitioners can gain more understanding around how to support the body in cases with chronic mold exposure and illness. The purpose in contributing to more literature synthesis, through the following detoxification protocol for mold, is to bring more awareness, not only to the implications of mold and fungal illness, but also to strategies to overcome it. The strategies discussed in this work will be around detoxification of mold and fungal toxins. Herbal remedies, binding agents, drainage optimization, along with limbic brain retraining will be reviewed as a part of a cohesive protocol for mold detoxification.

     Phase I and II of liver detoxification is vital to the body’s ability to effectively eliminate mycotoxins. For many, the mitochondrial drop of energy leads to the development of liver diseases, and potentially gut issues. When the mitochondrial energy is subpar, the production of cytochrome P450 becomes dysfunctional. CP450 enzymes are produced in the hepatocytes (liver cells), and their primary job in the body is to assist in metabolizing toxins (Gilani & Cassagnol, 2023). The conversion of cytochrome P450 occurs in the inner mitochondrial membrane. The outer membrane of the mitochondria is supposed to be breathable, allowing respiration for the cell, and a proper distribution of nutrients and enzymes. Without the mitochondrial energy, or the membranes functioning optimally, it is quite likely that, eventually, the inhibition of cytochrome P450 production may lead to hepatotoxicity, and possibly the development of liver diseases. 

     Noting how to support the reversal of mitochondrial damage, and liver function is an important foundation for effectively detoxing mold and healing the body. Looking at support for the production of energy in the cell (mitochondrial ATP), L-leucine, which is one of the body’s essential amino acids, can help to modulate mitochondrial energy (Zhang et al., 2020). Additionally, being that the outer cell membrane is made of a lipid bilayer, a high quality omega 3 fatty acid supplement can also assist in the respiration of the inner and outer membranes of the cells (Avijit et al., 2023). Shifting the focus to liver support, milk thistle or N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), is an antioxidant rich nutrient, which is the precursor of the production of glutathione. Glutathione protects the cells of the human body against oxidative stress, and is a powerful detoxification agent. With little to no side effects of the implementation of milk thistle or NAC, it makes these both a great choice for those who are hoping to improve liver function, and promote phase II detoxification (Berk et al., 2023). 

     Other mechanisms of support, which support drainage, neuromodulatory and inflammatory processes, and mold specific support, will be discussed more in depth below. Bentonite clay, a binding agent, helps with the “pull” mechanism, within the context of a “push-pull” system of detoxification. The push happens as the intestines and liver push toxins out, and the pull occurs as the bentonite clay sweeps the mycotoxins, and other microorganisms or toxins, out of the body. The binder acts as a magnet to toxins in the body, creating a solution for unnecessary endotoxin backup, or recirculation into the bloodstream or lymphatic system. Another aspect of the “pull” would be within nasal rinsing. Clearing the sinuses, where many mold colonies make a home, is an integral part of beginning to protect the immune system from new exposures that they may encounter from day to day (Piromchai et al., 2020). Other recommendations for support include dry brushing, infrared sauna, and gentle movement for the lymphatic system (Rea., 2018). In addition to these downstream detoxification methods of support, it is crucial to integrate neurological support in any healing process. The polyvagal theory demonstrates the healing power of a regulated and resilient nervous system. This theory integrates both the physiological health and functioning of the nervous system (especially the tone of the vagus nerve), and the emotional regulation patterns that follow stressful events, such as being chronically ill (Poli et al., 2021). Supporting the nervous system and limbic brains through somatic therapies, such as Neuro Emotional Technique, Parts & Memory Therapy, Emotional Freedom Technique, or technologies, such Brain Tap (created by Dr. Patrick Porter), would be effective strategies to incorporate (Roberts & Karatsoreos, 2021). The recommended protocol is elaborated on below.

Rationale & Mechanism of the Protocol

     Starting with herbal supplements, the first recommendation is Nigella sativa, otherwise known as black cumin or black cumin seed oil, at ½ tsp by mouth twice daily, in an organic liquid form. Nigella Sativa is an extremely potent herbal support to the immune system and cell membranes. The bioactive component of nigella sativa, which is thymoquinone, has a variety of benefits to oxidative stress on the body. Inflammatory processes, which relate to diseased states, such as metabolic disorders, digestive upset, liver, nephrotic, neurological, and more, may benefit from the use of black cumin seed oil (Hannan et al., 2021). It is an especially potent antifungal, and not only supports the physical release of fungus in the body, but also supports the release of fungal frequency-related emotions, which can commonly feel like an emotional aspect of something “rotting away” or “decaying”, as mold and fungus does. 

     The second herb, which is vital to the effectiveness of the protocol, is milk thistle, which is rich in glutathione, and supports phase I & II of liver detoxification. For many, the milk thistle would be sufficient liver support (LaTouche, 2023). For others, who may have a more impaired liver biotransformation process, or experience signs of a burdened liver as they begin the detoxification process, additional support through the implementation of N-acetyl Cysteine or liposomal glutathione may be helpful. Along with the liver support, lymphatic drainage is an important pillar of detox to support. For this goal,  manjistha is recommended, in order to support the spleen and lymphatic system, as the mycotoxin load begins its mobilization through the detoxification pathways. 

     Mold desensitization, through particular mold mixtures and homeopathic treatments, has been studied as one of the most effective ways to strengthen the immune system’s response to future exposures to mold and fungus. However, during desensitization, avoidance of known mold exposures is vital to the effectiveness of the treatment. The administration of a homeopathic mold mixture, in tandem with other detoxification support, such as infrared sauna and oxygen therapy, is an effective approach to desensitization, which is demonstrated in a study conducted by Roberts & Karatsoreos. Deseret Botanicals makes a mold desensitization blend, called MYC:Combination. This is a product that would be recommended to begin at a lower dosage, as the desensitization process may require their tolerance to the homeopathic mixture to go a bit slower. The recommended dose, according to Deseret Botanicals, is 10 drops 2-3x/day. In this protocol, it is recommended for the client to begin administration at 7 drops twice per day, and work their way up to 10 drops twice after a few days of tolerating that dosage well. The dosage would be closely monitored, via the client’s symptom feedback, and could be increased or decreased accordingly. If the client could tolerate the heat, given that heat intolerance is common with some advanced cases of mold illness, it is recommended that they visit an infrared sauna, as suggested in the research mentioned above, 2-3 times per week for 30-40 min (Roberts & Karatsoreos, 2021). 

     Nasal irrigating and binding agents would be the last supplemental parts of the protocol. For nasal irrigation, it is suggested that the client rinse one to two times daily, but especially once before bed. If tolerated, it is recommended the client add saline and one drop of rosemary essential oil to the rinse, for its potent antifungal properties. Nasal irrigation is most effective, when using an irrigation device with a high pressure, high volume device. This would make a syringe with an adapter or a squeeze bottle the most effective choice amongst nasal irrigation devices, for those suffering with inflammatory conditions of the sinuses (Piromchai et al., 2020). Nasal rinsing can not only help clear colonies in the sinuses, but it can also begin to help the pituitary gland heal from any damage or dysfunction, due to mycotoxins. There is only a thin sinus wall barrier, between the sinus passages and the pituitary gland. This is why many, especially women, experience hormone dysregulation and chronic fatigue issues, due to mold illness. By flushing the vapor of the rosemary essential oil through the sinus pathways, the pituitary also gets a close proximity hit of the antifungal as well. 

     Binding agents are required to bind onto these fungal metabolites, and remove them from the body. Aluminosilicates have been explored for their benefits, specifically around the goal of removing T-2 (A mycotoxin), along with other mycotoxins from the gastrointestinal tract. Two reasons aluminosilicates makes a suitable binder is that it is non digestible (does not get absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract), and it binds onto the mycotoxin well. Bentonite clay is a form of aluminosilicates, and the inclusion of ammonium salts to bentonite has been shown to increase its T-2 toxin absorption abilities. Without added ammonium salt, bentonite absorbed T-2 toxin by 15.09%, in comparison to bentonite with added ammonium bromide (B16), which increased absorption of T-2 toxin to 35.80%, which was the highest absorption rate and mechanism amongst the various forms of ammonium salts tested (Moosavi, 2017). It is recommended that this client add in ½ a teaspoon of bentonite clay, daily, taken 90 min away from other supplements (or medications if they are taking any pharmaceuticals prescribed by another provider), and ideally, their food (so as to not wipe out any of the nutrition in their body). All things suggested in the aforementioned protocol would be recommended to implement, diligently, for the course of six weeks total.  

Detoxification Reactions

     During detoxification, it is common for undesirable symptoms to arise. One might experience fatigue, headaches, digestive upset, skin irritations, changes in appetite, amongst other things. The occurrence of this happening is often referred to as a “detox reaction”, “die off symptoms”, or a “herxheimer reaction”. A herxheimer reaction is more specific to Lyme disease, which is the bacteria of Borrelia Burgdorferi, and other spirochete infections (Dhakal & Sbar, 2023). These die off reactions take place, due to an production of endotoxin, as the body eliminates unwanted microorganisms and toxins. If the detox pathways aren’t clear (i.e. the liver, kidneys, lymphatic system, intestines, and lungs), the body will begin to re-absorb some of its own toxins, which is called redistribution, and often results in an increase or temporary worsening of symptoms (Śmiechowicz, 2022). With detoxification of mold, individuals are  likely to experience some of these symptoms of detoxification, as they begin to open up their detoxification pathways to eliminate mycotoxins. 

     As a guide to the client or patient’s detoxification process, it is important to monitor the intensity of any herx symptoms that may arise, as this can properly inform any changes in dosages or strategies that can be done to support the body. This topic touches upon the short and long term effects. Short term, the client or patient implementing the protocol may experience temporary discomfort from some of the aforementioned symptoms, due to the detoxification mechanisms. However, these symptoms should not last more than a few weeks when beginning a healing process. For some, as different layers of toxicity are addressed in the body, detoxification symptoms may come and go in cycles (as new pathogenic or toxic stress leaves the body with herbal protocol adjustments). However, there should be relief after a few days to a week of an adjustment period, when starting new herbs or homeopathics. Long term effects include a relief of symptoms from mold illness. Individuals should experience an increase in their energy, vitality, and a significant improvement in sleep, mental clarity, cognitive health, and digestion. For some healing from mold illness, symptoms of a higher degree of complexity should begin to heal, some of which may include dizzy spells, panic attacks, tachycardia episodes, migraines, histamine reactions, rashes, and other severe symptoms. Not all suffering with mold illness will experience these, but some certainly may, especially if they are predisposed to the genetic snip for Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (those with Hereditary alpha-tryptasemia are more likely to develop MCAS) (Valent et al., 2020).

Initial Intake & Health History

     With any new case, it is vital to have a comprehensive clinical intake and health history form. Knowing the individual’s background, including any prior diagnosis, surgeries, injuries, emotional and/or environmental stressors, is instrumental in customizing the approach taken, when working with this person. Just as the DNA is unique to each body, the process of detoxification and rapport building should be customized to each client or patient’s needs. This ensures optimal success in the detoxification process. Forms used for a new client intake would include the aforementioned clinical intake (which includes a questionnaire type symptom section, as well as a health history short answer section), an evaluation of lifestyle factors, such as nutrition, sleep, and movement practices, as well as stressors, and a waiver, prompting the individual to acknowledge their role in the client/practitioner partnership. This includes the acknowledgement that there is no diagnosis, nor treating, occurring within the practitioner’s practice, nor is the practitioner responsible for the implementation or outcome of the clients recommendations. 

Client Education

     Educating the client on the potential risks of detoxification symptoms is an important aspect to build in and emphasize in the preparation phase. While being mindful not to instill fear, creating awareness for the client, as to potential things to expect during their detoxification journey, empowers them to continue to move through the process, increasing the likelihood of compliance, despite the challenging moments that may arise. This education would include reviewing the mechanism of detoxification, and describing how the beginning stages of it may feel very similar to a symptom flare. Except, in the case of detoxification symptoms, instead of the root cause going back into dormancy, we are driving it out of the body with detoxification. This may create an intensity to their symptoms, as the body begins to release the toxic load. Letting the client know that mild to moderate symptoms are acceptable. Anything beyond this should be discussed with their provider. Making the client aware that emotional purging is common with detoxification as well is vital. Any process becomes all the more challenging if the nervous system becomes dysregulated. Encouraging them towards detoxification support, both for the body and the mind, would be an emphasized part of the preparation phase. 

Phase I of Protocol; Preparation

     During preparation, it is recommended the client take two weeks to shift their lifestyle and nutrition practices. Firstly, removing any source of mold would be essential. This may mean proper remediation of a home, a cleaning of a vehicle, or a leave of absence from working in their office, depending on where the source of their exposure is coming from. Finding these sources, and practicing proper removal from a toxic external environment is essential to the healing of their internal environment (Rea, 2018). Introducing stress management techniques, such as deep breathing, somatic experiencing, utilization of something like BrainTap (which is like neurofeedback at home), would be a great place for the client to start to build lifestyle practices that support some of the physical and emotional stress that accompanies detoxification. Laying the foundation of the nervous system is vital to the body’s receptivity of the physical work of the detoxification phase. Secondly, I’d invite them to shift a few nutritional habits during this time, as a means to gently lower inflammation, prepare the gut for healing, and allow the client to adjust to any changes that may be out of the ordinary for their day to day nutritional habits. For a mold case, it is strongly encouraged for the client to eliminate foods that are high in mycotoxins, or that could aggravate mold and fungus issues in the gut, such as gluten and wheat, all dairy products, oats, corn, coffee, and refined sugars. If the client were inclined to keep coffee in the diet, it is recommended that they switch to a mycotoxin free brand, such as Purity Coffee. There are several on the market. Lastly, implementing particular detoxification practices to support the lymphatic system, such as dry brushing, walking, rebounding, and epsom salt baths would be recommended to do 3-4 times per week for the two weeks of preparation, as a support to get the lymphatic system moving and ready for detox. 

Phase II; Detoxification & the Protocol

     Continuing the aforementioned nutrition & lifestyle recommendations into the detoxification phase (phase 2), now would be the time to introduce more strategic detoxification methods for mold illness. Utilizing the protocol recommendations discussed above, the following bullet pointed items would encapsulate the client’s carefully instructed recommendations.

• Omega 3: 1 tsp twice daily
• L-leucine: 5g daily
• Milk thistle: 300 mg twice daily
• Manjistha : 360 mg twice daily
• Myco:Combination: 7 drops twice daily for the first week, then, if tolerated well, increase to 10 drops twice daily
• Nasal irrigation: add 1 drop of rosemary essential oil and saline to 4oz of distilled water & rinse through the sinuses before bed
• Bentonite clay: ½ teaspoon of powder, added in water, twice daily. Consume 90 min away from other supplements or medications, and ideally, food.
• Infrared sauna: if tolerated well, 2-3 times weekly for 30-40 min.
• Limbic system exercises (i.e. BrainTap, EFT, or strategic journaling practices, deep breathing, and relaxation).
• Walking: 15 min or more per day, as tolerated
• Nutrition; avoid the following foods for the duration of this protocol: gluten and wheat, all dairy products, oats, corn, coffee, and refined sugars. Foods high in proteins and nourishing fats should be increased. These may include foods such as grass fed ground beef and bison, pasture raised chicken and eggs, ghee, avocados and avocado oil, raw coconut meat and oil, as well as olives and olive oil. Easily digestible fibers, such as those found in cucumber, zucchini, squash, berries, and well cooked root vegetables may be increased as well. 

The protocol listed above is recommended to be implemented for 5 days on & 2 days off for six weeks, with the exception of the Bentonite clay and nutritional recommendations, which should be implemented daily for the entirety of the six week period of time. This is a gentle way of pulsing the protocol, as to give the body breaks, and increase responsiveness to the protocol. It also helps to increase compliance for the client. The client may experience mild to moderate detoxification symptoms during the protocol, which may include headaches, mild congestion or runny nose, gastrointestinal changes (bloating or changes in bowel movements), fatigue, and changes in sleep. If these symptoms become severe, and the severity lasts more than 2-3 days, the client should contact their provider for recommendations, such as potential adjustments to dosages or forms of additional support, based upon the individual’s sensitivity. 

Phase III; Transitioning Out of Active Detox & Maintenance

     Coming out of this active detoxification phase, re-assessing the client’s progress would be essential to continuing next steps. If the symptoms were not eradicated, the detoxification phase would continue, potentially with some next step adjustments for deeper or more complex healing.  Given that the protocol was successful at eradicating symptoms within the given period of time, the client would move onto maintenance care. It is recommended that the client continue the dietary recommendations, with a gentle reintroduction to foods that were completely eliminated. This would be encouraged to do one food at a time, and carefully note any symptoms that may arise. These inflammatory foods would be recommended to keep to 15-20% of dietary intake consumption, with 80-85% compliance to continuing an anti-inflammatory diet. It is recommended to always provide the client with protocol-compliant recipe resources at the beginning of their healing process. This would be an ongoing resource for them to refer to, as they transition out of detoxification. All lifestyle habits would be recommended to be continued, as these are great at supporting stress levels and natural detoxification. 

     As for the recommendations made for supplements and therapeutic services, it is recommended that this individual rotates all, except for the Myc:Combination, in and out of their routine, periodically, to support their detox pathways and optimize results. Recommended frequency would be client dependent, but in general, it is recommended to dose these out about three times per week for two weeks of the month, increasing or decreasing based upon the amount of support they feel their body needs. It is recommended that they do this for the next three months. Implementing this type of support not only locks in the work done during an active detoxification phase, but also continues to provide ongoing support for the liver and other detoxification organs, creating a strong physiological foundation for the successful, natural elimination of future toxic load. 

     It is strongly encouraged that this client maintains communication and follows up with their provider, or if they prefer, refer out to a different provider. Professional support and guidance for ongoing healing, and health optimization, is important to this client crossing the finish line in their health goals, and for sustainability. It is recommended to offer this type of support through flexible book and chat channels that are monitored by the provider or a competent, assistant health coach on staff. Providing accessibility and nurturing the client-practitioner relationship is highly valuable, and plays a role in establishing and maintaining better, more sustainable client compliance, experience, and outcomes.

Risks & Conclusion

     As far as assessing risks associated with this protocol, there would be a mild to moderate risk factor, mostly associated with detoxification symptoms. These risks would be mitigated by proper client education, and dosage adjustment by the provider, as necessary. Problems that may arise may include intolerance to detoxification approach, allergies or adverse reactions to supplements, lack of client compliance, and inability to remove the source of mold, or repetitive new mold exposures during healing. The outcomes of this protocol should culminate in a significant betterment of the client’s state of health, and an improvement or total eradication of symptoms that they started with. It is important to note that the time spent in each phase discussed above should be custom tailored to each individual client’s case, at the discretion of the practitioner. Clear education, instruction, and accessible support are key components for the practitioner to consider, when working with an individual healing from mold illness, or any complex, chronic illness. Mold can be a challenging health issue to heal from. However, the body was designed to heal when we remove the source of the problem and give it the proper chance. There is hope for even the most complex of cases.

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