Yeast Infection Home Remedy

Most women will have a vaginal yeast infection at sometime during the course of their lives. “Candidal Vaginitis” is an infection of the vagina by the yeast organism Candida and can be one of the most irritating and sometimes painful problems encountered by a woman. This article describes several options for a Yeast Infection Home Remedy for women who have acquired a vaginal yeast infection.

The normal human body has a great number of bacteria and fungi living in balance on its surfaces. One of the organisms present in most areas including the digestive tract, skin and genital areas is the yeast Candida albicans. A yeast infection occurs when Candida grows out of control in the vaginal tract. This can be caused by the use of antibiotics or by imbalances in the body chemistry. The symptoms of vaginal yeast infection often include moderate to severe itching, burning, foul odor and a white cheesy discharge from the vagina.

One of the most common and most effective methods of yeast infection home remedy is the use of yogurt. Yogurt contains live cultures of Lactobacillus bacteria and can effectively replace normal “good” bacteria. Replacement of good bacteria directly into the vagina is the most natural and effective way to reduce the overgrowth of yeast. You can prepare a douche containing 1/3 yogurt and 2/3 water or you can dip a tampon in yogurt and insert vaginally. This should be repeated once or twice daily until the matter is resolved. Only plain, non-flavored yogurt containing “live cultures” should be used. This should be clearly stated on the yogurt label.

A second option which is quite effective is live Lactobacillus capsules. These “probiotic” supplements contain varieties of Lactobacillus bacteria in a clear gel capsule. One capsule should be inserted vaginally each night until the symptoms subside. A pantyliner should be used during this period to catch leakage from the vaginal area. To ensure effectiveness, capsules should be purchased from the refrigerated section of a health food or vitamin store. The product should clearly state that the capsules contain several species of live Lactobacillus bacteria.

Garlic is widely known for its antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties and has been used as a home remedy for vaginitis. Garlic may be eaten or applied directly to treat a yeast infection. When applied directly, has been shown to have stronger antifungal activity than most antifungal medications. A garlic clove can be used vaginally by wrapping with gauze and inserting overnight. If this makes you squeamish, many people recommend eating a clove of fresh garlic twice daily at the onset of a yeast infection. Garlic tablets and capsules are also widely available at most stores selling any type of vitamins or supplements

To conclude, there are several options to consider when treating a vaginal yeast infection with home remedies. Three of the most effective methods are considered to be using plain yogurt vaginally, inserting Lactobacillus capsules vaginally and using garlic by eating it or by direct application.

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