Yeast infections are caused by an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina and can be treated naturally with probiotics found in yogurt and supplements, as well as antifungal properties in garlic and tea tree oil. It’s important to get a medical diagnosis before attempting a natural cure.
Vaginal yeast infection, characterized by redness and inflammation, severe itching, and white, lumpy discharge, is an extremely common condition. It is caused by an imbalance of naturally occurring bacteria in the vagina, rather than an infection from an external source. The best natural yeast infection cure should restore balance to the vaginal flora and maintain the normal pH of the vagina so that beneficial bacteria can continue to thrive. Common elements of a natural yeast infection cure include yogurt, garlic, and supplements that promote the growth of healthy bacteria in the vagina.
A common natural cure for yeast infection is plain, unpasteurized yogurt because yogurt contains beneficial probiotics. Some brands of yogurt contain additional probiotics. Usually just before bed, yogurt can be applied directly to the vagina and vulva, or frozen yogurt can be used as a suppository. The cold temperature of the yogurt can help soothe itching and discomfort. Eating yogurt every day can also be an effective natural yeast infection cure.
Probiotic nutritional supplements are also available to help maintain the optimal level of beneficial bacteria in the digestive tract and vagina. Food supplements containing probiotics are extracted from natural sources. These are often recommended while you are taking antibiotics to prevent candida growth.
Garlic is another widely used natural cure for a yeast infection, as is tea tree oil. Garlic and tea tree oil both have antifungal properties and are natural ways to reduce candida outbreaks. Garlic can be used as a suppository, usually as a whole clove wrapped in gauze that is inserted into the vagina at bedtime. Tea tree oil should be diluted before applying to delicate vaginal skin, topically on the vulva or in a douche with water or vinegar.
In a healthy vagina, the fungus that causes the discomfort of a yeast infection is kept in check by beneficial bacteria like acidophillus and lactobacillus, also called probiotics. The fungus, called candida, can grow out of control if the natural bacteria are reduced. Candida can also increase if the vagina is often in a warm, moist environment, such as a wet bathing suit or tight, non-breathable clothing. Oral antibiotics often lead to vaginal yeast infections because the antibiotics kill both beneficial and harmful bacteria. A yeast infection can also occur due to oral contraceptives, exhaustion, or illness.
Not all vaginal infections are yeast infections, so women should not attempt a natural yeast infection cure on their own without a medical diagnosis. If a vaginal infection is accompanied by burning, fever, or foul-smelling discharge, it’s probably not a yeast infection and requires medical attention.
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