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10 Home Remedies For Yeast Infection

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Yeast infections are a common problem that affects many women at some point in their lives. While there are over-the-counter medications available, many people prefer to try natural remedies first. I will try to explore some home remedies for yeast infections, including natural ingredients and lifestyle changes that could help alleviate symptoms and promote overall vaginal health.

However, it’s important to note that if you have never been diagnosed with a yeast infection before or if you are experiencing severe symptoms, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider before trying any home remedies.

home remedies for yeast infection

Home Remedies For Yeast Infection

The following are the home remedies for yeast infection-

  1. Coconut Oil

    Coconut oil has antifungal properties that could help to treat yeast infections. The medium-chain fatty acids found in coconut oil, such as caprylic acid, capric acid, and lauric acid, are effective against candidiasis, the fungus responsible for most yeast infections.

    You could try to apply coconut oil on the affected area as it might provide some relief from itching in private parts and reduce some amount of irritation. The candidiasis fungus might be treated through coconut oil’s anti-fungal properties. Additionally, you could also add it to your diet to boost your immune system and it may also support in balancing out healthy bacteria numbers in the body.

  2. Boric Acid

    Boric acid is a white, crystalline chemical compound that has been used for many years to treat yeast infections. It works by creating an environment that is inhospitable to yeast growth.

    When boric acid lowers the pH level, which makes it difficult for yeast to thrive. Thus, when applied to the affected area, it may lower the severity of yeast infection due to its antifungal and antiseptic properties.

    Several studies have shown that boric acid could be an effective treatment for recurrent yeast infections that are resistant to other treatments.

    However, it’s important to use boric acid only as directed and under the guidance of a healthcare provider, as it could be toxic if ingested or misused. Also, avoid considering this natural remedy in case you are pregnant.

  3. Apple Cider Vinegar

    Apple cider vinegar is a widespread natural remedy that is often used to treat yeast infections. It contains acetic acid, which is a natural antifungal agent that could help to kill off the yeast causing the infection. You may add a cup of apple cider vinegar to a warm bath and soak for 20-30 minutes. This could help to relieve itching and irritation caused by yeast infection.

    Another alternative is to try ACV by mixing equal parts of apple cider vinegar and water and applying the solution to the affected area using a clean cloth or cotton ball. After leaving it on for 15 to 20 minutes, wash it off with warm water.

    Along with being one of the most famous weight loss drinks, drinking diluted apple cider vinegar might as well help balance the pH levels in the body and promote the growth of healthy bacteria that could help fight off yeast infections. In addition, you may also take care of your overall health by following easy ways to maintain a healthy diet like eating nutritious food and exercising.

  4. Probiotics

    Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that help maintain the natural balance of microorganisms in the body. They could be found in foods such as yogurt and kefir or taken in supplement form.

    Probiotics are believed to help treat yeast infections by restoring the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina and inhibiting the growth of candidiasis, the fungus that causes yeast infections.

    A study found that women who took a probiotic supplement containing Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus reuteri had a lower incidence of vaginal yeast infections compared to those who did not take the supplement.

    If you’re considering taking a probiotic for a yeast infection, it’s best to choose a product that contains strains of bacteria specifically shown to be effective against candidiasis.

  5. Yogurt

    Yogurt is a natural probiotic and a popular home remedy for yeast infections because it contains live cultures of lactobacillus acidophilus, a type of beneficial bacteria that is naturally present in the vagina. These cultures could help restore the balance of bacteria in the vagina and reduce the overgrowth of yeast that causes the infection.

    To use yogurt as a treatment for yeast infections, you could apply plain, unsweetened yogurt directly to the affected area. You could use a clean finger or a cotton swab to apply the yogurt to the inside of the vagina and the surrounding area. Leave the yogurt on for a few hours, and then rinse it off with warm water.

    You could also eat yogurt as a preventative measure to help maintain the balance of bacteria in your body. Look for yogurt that contains live cultures of lactobacillus acidophilus, and avoid varieties that are high in sugar or artificial flavors. Eating yogurt regularly could help prevent yeast infections from developing in the first place. Additionally, you may also consume plain yogurt as it is one of the best probiotic food that could be a healthier approach to improve your overall lifestyle.

  6. Tea Tree Oil

    The tea tree plant’s leaves are the source of the natural essential oil known as tea tree oil. It includes antifungal and antibacterial properties that make it a popular natural remedy for treating yeast infections. Tea tree oil contains terpinen-4-ol, which has been found to have potent antifungal effects. When applied topically to the affected area, tea tree oil could help to kill the candidiasis fungus that causes yeast infections.

    Yeast infections could cause itching, burning, and general discomfort. Tea tree oil has anti-inflammatory properties that could help to soothe the skin and reduce inflammation, providing relief from these symptoms.

    The acidic pH of the vagina is important as it could help in maintaining a healthy balance of bacteria and yeast. Tea tree oil could also help to restore the natural pH balance of the vagina, which might prevent the overgrowth of yeast.

    To use tea tree oil for yeast infection, dilute a few drops in a carrier oil (such as coconut oil) and apply it to the affected area.

  7. Garlic

    Garlic has natural antifungal properties, which makes it an effective home remedy for yeast infections. The active component in garlic is allicin, which has been shown to inhibit the growth of candidiasis, the fungus responsible for yeast infections.  If you wish to tackle yeast infection problems, you could consider adding this anti-inflammatory food source to your diet.

    Peel a clove of garlic and wrap it in gauze or cheesecloth. Insert the garlic into your vagina and leave it in for a few hours. You could also tie a string around the gauze to make it easier to remove. You may also try a garlic bath by crushing a few garlic cloves and adding them to a warm bath. Soak in the bath for at least 30 minutes to help alleviate symptoms.

  8. Baking Soda

    Baking soda is commonly utilized as a home remedy for yeast infections. It is supposed to work by neutralizing the acidity in the vagina, which might help restore the balance of the vaginal pH and prevent the overgrowth of yeast. Females may experience itching in private parts for which sodium bicarbonate or baking soda might be extremely helpful.

    To use baking soda for yeast infections, mix one tablespoon of baking soda with one cup of water and use it as a douche. It’s important to mention that douching is not recommended by healthcare providers, as it could disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina and lead to further infection.

    Alternatively, baking soda could be added to a warm bath to help soothe and alleviate itching and discomfort associated with a yeast infection. However, it’s important to maintain proper hygiene practices and avoid using scented products or harsh soaps in the vaginal area.

    Saltwater is thought to be an effective home remedy for treating yeast infections due to its ability to create an unfavorable environment for the growth of yeast. Yeast may thrive in warm, moist environments, and saltwater could help to dry out the affected area and reduce moisture, making it difficult for the yeast to grow and multiply.

    To use salt water as a remedy for yeast infection, you could add a cup of sea salt or Epsom salt to a warm bath and soak in it for 20-30 minutes.

  9. Hydrogen Peroxide

    Hydrogen peroxide is a common household antiseptic that could be an over-the-counter medication as a home remedy for cold sores and yeast infections as well. The idea behind using hydrogen peroxide for yeast infections is that it could help to restore the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina.

    When hydrogen peroxide is applied to the affected area, it releases oxygen that helps to kill the overgrowth of yeast. Additionally, hydrogen peroxide could also help to eliminate harmful bacteria that could contribute to the development of yeast infections. As per a study, hydrogen peroxide is a powerful disinfectant active against, fungi, bacteria, viruses, and other organisms.

    To use hydrogen peroxide for a yeast infection, it is essential to dilute it with water first. A solution of one-part hydrogen peroxide and three parts water could be applied to the affected area with a clean cloth or cotton ball. It is essential to avoid using undiluted hydrogen peroxide, as it could be too harsh for the delicate skin in the vaginal area.

  10. Vitamins C and E

    Vitamin C is known for its immune-boosting properties. It may help to increase the production of white blood cells, which are responsible for fighting off infections in the body. It could regulate the body’s pH levels, which could be important for preventing yeast growth.

    Additionally, some research has suggested that vitamin C may help to reduce the severity and duration of yeast infections. Moreover, being healthy from the inside is important so you could try to consume potassium-rich fruits like bananas daily to add different ways to enhance your overall health as vitamin C is considered among the best vitamins for energy.

    Vitamin E benefits as a potent antioxidant that might support immune function. It has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which could help to reduce swelling and irritation in the body. Some studies have suggested that vitamin E may be helpful in preventing yeast infections, especially in women who are prone to recurrent infections like candidiasis.

Conclusion

In conclusion, yeast infections could be a frustrating and uncomfortable problem for many women. While over-the-counter medications are available, natural remedies may provide relief for some people.

Home remedies such as probiotics, yogurt, garlic, tea tree oil, and apple cider vinegar may help to alleviate symptoms and promote overall vaginal health.

However, it’s important to remember that if you are experiencing severe symptoms or have never been diagnosed with a yeast infection before, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider before trying any home remedies.

With proper diagnosis and treatment, yeast infections could be effectively managed, allowing you to get back to your daily life without discomfort.

References/Sources

Working4Health prefers using primary and verified references. We have strict sourcing guidelines and our primary references include peer-reviewed research, academic, and medical institution studies.

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