Suppose a lady notices unusual irritation, itchiness, discharge, or smell from her vagina. In that case, she should have herself checked out for yeast infection. Although it isn’t considered a sexually transmitted disease, engaging in sexual activities does increase the risk of infection. Fortunately, there are several effective home remedies for yeast infections.
Home Remedies for Yeast Infections
Fortunately, there are natural remedies to treat and prevent yeast infections. In addition, a woman can protect herself with home remedies. These remedies contain and even alleviate vaginal yeast infection symptoms. In addition, these home remedies are easy to find and may help stop the overgrowth of candida Albicans.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is known for its antifungal and antimicrobial properties. A primary reason why it is considered a home remedy. It can eliminate infections by preventing the fungus from binding to smooth surfaces, like the vaginal walls.
To use this home remedy, dilute a spoonful of apple cider vinegar into a glass of water and drink it. Don’t drink concentrated or apply it directly to the vagina, as too much acidity can kill good bacteria.
Another way to use this remedy is by adding half a cup of it into a lukewarm bathtub. The patient can soak in the mixture for 20 minutes to eliminate harmful microorganisms. Soaking is different from douching since the latter is a more direct approach and usually involves a high concentration of chemicals, so avoid douching.
Boric Acid
Boric acid is known to have antifungal, antibacterial, and antiseptic properties. For a long time, it has been used for vaginal suppositories. However, a 2011 study found that it is a safe and economical alternative for women with vulvovaginal candidiasis, including yeast infections.
You can even find over-the-counter Boric acid (vaginal) medicine, which you can use as a home remedy to treat yeast infections. In addition, you can find these vaginal suppositories in local pharmacies. You have to insert these into the vagina, so read and follow the instructions carefully.
A word of caution: a patient can experience kidney damage, acute failure of the circulatory system, and even death when exposed to large amounts of this acid. It can also be toxic to babies, so pregnant women should avoid using it.
Vitamin E
Women’s health vitamins and supplements always include vitamin E, and for a good reason. The nutrient can help with reproduction and skin health. It can also aid in getting rid of mild fungal diseases, including yeast infection.
Vitamin E can help reduce inflammation caused by this infection. A lady can take it orally as part of her daily routine. She can also use it as a vaginal suppository to soothe and reduce the inflammation of the mucous membranes of the vagina and vulva.
Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is another home remedy with antifungal and antimicrobial properties. A study published in 2016 provided evidence of the oil’s effectiveness against the fungus that causes vaginal candidiasis.
One can apply coconut oil directly to the affected area to soothe irritation. It is safe to apply to the vagina or penis, even in liberal amounts. If the patient is uncomfortable, they can take it orally, whether straight or mixed with other foods.
Tea Tree Oil
Essential oils, particularly tea tree oil, can be a home remedy to treat vaginal candidiasis. Like coconut oil, it has antibacterial and antifungal properties. Ancient people widely used it to treat wounds and other skin ailments.
It can also reduce irritation and itchiness caused by the infection. In addition, researchers from a 2020 study found that it could fight the fungus resistant to antifungal medications making it a viable home remedy to treat this type of infection.
This oil can be potent, so dilute it with a carrier oil. Patients can combine it with coconut or jojoba oil and apply it as a topical treatment. There are also tea tree vaginal suppositories available on the market.
Oil of Oregano
Another essential oil that women can use as a home remedy is the oil of Oregano. A 2017 study showed that Oregano oil is effective in curbing the growth of C. Albicans. In addition, its microbial properties damaged the fungus’s cell wall more than antifungal prescriptions.
You should dilute Oregano oil with a carrier oil. However, please do note that it’s also a natural blood thinner. So patients should avoid using it along with blood thinners for other health conditions or if they have blood-clotting issues.
Additionally, you should never take essential oils such as oil of Oregano orally. Instead, you can enjoy them aromatically by diffusing them or topically by diluting them with a carrier oil.
Probiotics
Technically, probiotics refer to the combination of good live bacteria in the body. As a home remedy, women can take probiotic supplements to increase the number of good bacteria in their bodies.
Eat yogurt for the good bacteria.
Yogurt is an excellent source of natural probiotics. A 2017 study showed that it contains live bacteria, particularly Lactobacillus acidophilus, which aids in making the vagina healthy and yeast-free. It also naturally supplements the Lactobacillus bacteria and hydrogen peroxide produced by the vagina. Patients will want to stick to plain Greek yogurt without added sugar, flavoring, or fruit for yeast infections.
Balance your pH
Probiotic supplements and yogurt help women achieve a balanced vaginal pH. Having a lot of good bacteria in the vagina can hinder yeast overgrowth and prevent infections. Probiotics have also been shown to stop recurring vaginal infections. In essence, it’s best to include a daily dose of probiotics into one’s diet.
Cranberries
Cranberry juice is a home remedy for preventing urinary tract infections (UTIs). Nonetheless, its antibacterial effects can also help women fight off vaginal candidiasis. In addition, cranberries block certain chemicals that bacteria need to attach to the vaginal walls. As a result, there’s evidence that it may help cure yeast infections and prevent recurrences.
Moreover, cranberries have high levels of vitamin C, which boosts the body’s immune system. Drinking cranberry juice can help patients fight off yeast infections naturally.
Remember to choose cranberry juices that are all-natural and sugar-free. Sugar feeds fungal infections, which may cause the home remedy to backfire and cause an overgrowth rather than hampering it.
Garlic
For a long time, garlic has been described as a miracle plant because of its health benefits. Its antifungal properties make it an effective home remedy against vaginal candidiasis and bacterial vaginosis. Also, research from 2019 found that garlic effectively inhibited the growth of C. Albicans on oral thrush. This research implies that it would also effectively hinder the build-up of the same fungus in the vagina.
The best way to use garlic as a home remedy is by adding more of it to one’s diet. Women can incorporate it into various dishes. Of course, you can also opt to eat cloves raw if you can tolerate them. There are over-the-counter garlic pills, supplements, and oils as well.
Note that you should avoid rubbing genitals with garlic or using it as a vaginal suppository as it may exacerbate the symptoms and cause more harm than good.
Aside from garlic, ginger is another food item that can help women fight off this infection.
Turmeric
Turmeric, in particular, is renowned as an effective home remedy for all types of infections. That’s because it contains curcumin, which has potent anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties.
Turmeric can impede the growth of yeast. Moreover, it may even be more effective than over-the-counter antifungal medications.
Turmeric is best taken orally. You can mix it with other foods or drink it as tea. You can also purchase turmeric supplements for extra curcumin content and enhanced absorption.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is the best option for those looking for a soothing and moisturizing home remedy. It can provide instantaneous relief from irritated, inflamed, and itchy skin caused by yeast infections. It also has antimicrobial properties to prevent fungus overgrowth and regrowth.
A 2020 study showed that an aloe vera ethanol extract could inhibit the growth of C. Albicans as much as standard antifungal agents. Although most people wouldn’t know how to make ethanol extract from this plant, it shows that aloe vera has inherent properties that can aid in fighting vaginal candidiasis.
Pure aloe vera gel is highly antifungal. With this in mind, women can apply it directly to the affected area to soothe inflammation. You can also take aloe vera orally, which increases white blood cells and helps the body fight off yeast naturally.
Epsom Salt Bath
Although it’s named Epsom salt, this yeast infection home remedy is a pure mineral compound. Also known as magnesium sulfate, it can help reduce pain and swelling when dissolved in water. An Epsom salt bath can also help alleviate symptoms of yeast infections while inhibiting the growth of C. Albicans.
Making an Epsom salt bath
To make an Epsom salt bath, add about two cups of the compound to a bathtub filled with warm water. Then, soak in the mixture for 20 minutes to get its full effects. Just make sure not to overdo it.
Vitamin C-rich Food
Vitamin C will always be a helpful nutrient to fight off infections, including those caused by C. Albicans. It’s an immune system booster that also has antimicrobial and antifungal properties, which can prevent fungal overgrowth.
Vitamin C is best consumed orally. Supplements and tablets are widely available. On the other hand, one can also get the nutrient from natural sources, such as citrus fruits, strawberries, tomatoes, bell peppers, white potatoes, and cruciferous vegetables.
Baking Soda
Baking soda is known for helping curb fungal diseases, like athlete’s foot, and other ailments, like poison ivy rashes and hives. It also has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can inhibit the growth of C. Albicans.
Baking soda bath
Like Epsom salt, women can take a baking soda bath to alleviate active yeast infection symptoms. Add a teaspoon or tablespoon of the compound to a bathtub filled with warm water and soak for 20 minutes. This can soothe the inflammation and help the presence of yeast in the genitalia.
Bone Broth
Bone broth has always been a soothing home remedy for various ailments. More than the hearty soup, the protein-rich liquid can help improve digestion and gut health. It also supports the immune function to aid the body in fighting infections.
Making a bone broth
The exact nutritional value of bone broths depends mainly on the meat and bones used. You can make it from any animal, whether pork, beef, turkey, lamb, buffalo, chicken, or fish. Just add a few bones into a gallon of water, bring it to a boil, and let it simmer for hours. You can also add salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
Green Tea
Green tea is full of antioxidants to boost the body’s immune system. Its microbial properties also make it an effective home remedy against vaginal candidiasis. In a study published in the Canadian Journal of Microbiology, researchers found that green tea polyphenols inhibited the formation and spread of C. Albicans. Also, there are specific compounds in the beverage that prevent fungal cells from attaching to each other, thus, hampering overgrowth.
Men and women with yeast infections can drink tea daily to boost the effects of green tea against the disease. They can also apply used tea bags placed in the fridge over the affected area to soothe inflammation. Another way is to soak in a green tea bath using loose leaves.
Peppermint Oil
Like tea tree oil and oil of Oregano, peppermint oil is another essential oil home remedy for yeast infections. It’s a powerful antifungal agent that impairs the growth of C. Albicans. A 2017 study observed a decrease in yeast activity after treatment with peppermint oil, supporting its efficacy as a home remedy for this ailment.
Using peppermint oil
Again, essential oils can be potent, and a few drops are enough for a single dose. Make sure to dilute one to two drops of peppermint oil with a carrier oil before applying topically on the genitals. Alternatively, women can drink peppermint tea daily to supplement the yeast infection treatment and hasten recovery.
Wear Cotton Undies, or At Least Underwear Where the Inner Liner Is Cotton
Although satin and silk can feel luxurious on the skin, these fabrics can exacerbate symptoms of vaginal candidiasis. So instead, opt for cotton undies. At the very least, the inner liner should be cotton to protect the vagina and let it breathe.
The vulva is a delicate area, and you should treat it gently. For example, avoid wool since it can make the place even itchier if you have yeast infections. On the other hand, satin, silk, nylon, and spandex don’t wick moisture, which can create a suitable breeding ground for fungal infections.
Cotton is the best option
Cotton is the best material to use since it’s breathable and absorbent. However, women can wear sexy underwear since doing so can boost their confidence and mood. Nonetheless, always look for an inner cotton lining to absorb extra moisture from vaginal discharge.
Make sure to wash it with hypoallergenic soap to avoid chemicals that lead to itching, irritation, and allergic reactions. Tumble dry it on low heat after washing for about 30 minutes to minimize the presence of new bacteria.
How Effective Are Home Remedies for Treating Yeast Infections?
Home remedies are best for preventing the recurrence of vaginal candidiasis, especially if the patient has experienced it before. Some solutions, like boric acid and essential oils, can be alternative treatments to antifungal drugs usually prescribed to people with an overgrowth of C. Albicans.
Home remedies for yeast infections vs Over-the-counter medications
Sometimes, these home remedies are even more effective than over-the-counter medications for treating mild yeast infections. They also don’t have adverse or uncomfortable side effects that usually come with synthetic solutions.
When Should You See a Doctor?
This is one of the most frequently asked questions about yeast infections. As with any other health issue, it’s always best to consult a doctor. There are several factors to consider other than a patient’s yeast infection.
A gynecologist knows the best type of treatment to recommend based on a woman’s medical history and health condition. They can also give you access to fast-acting solutions in case the symptoms become unbearable. Furthermore, they can advise on the best hygiene and sexual practices to prevent fungal regrowth.
Takeaway
There’s nothing pleasant about vaginal candidiasis. It causes itchiness, irritation, and soreness on the genitals. Men can become infected with this through unprotected sexual intercourse, but women are more susceptible to other risk factors.
You can prevent infections and regrowth with these natural home remedies. However, if symptoms persist, consult a doctor for professional advice and peace of mind.
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