Yeast infection is a classic example of how some small imbalances can have profound effects on our body. The infection is caused by Candida albicans, a fungus found normally in our bodies. It is present in our gut, skin and reproductive organs along with other probiotic bacteria and natural flora. In this balanced stage, it does not cause a problem, but as soon as the balance is disturbed, it starts proliferating.
This overgrowth results into yeast infection, also known as thrush or Candiasis. Most common form of yeast infection is vaginal yeast infection with over 70% of the women having it at least once in their lifetime. Apart from this, oral thrush, male yeast infection and skin infection are also common. These infections can be quite painful and uncomfortable, but the good news is, they can be treated at home. However, you have to first make sure that it is the yeast infection that you have got.
The Best Home Remedies For Yeast Infection
While several Over the Counter medications are available for curing thrush, home remedies come in extremely handy. You can treat your yeast infection by using some simple remedies, easily available at home.
1. Non-sweetened Yogurt
Yogurt can work wonders in yeast infections. It contains lots of probiotic bacteria, Lactobacillus acidophilus. This bacterium is quite effective in keeping the yeast proliferation in check, by competing with fungus for same nutrition and habitat. Consuming yogurt can be extremely effective in all kinds of yeast infection and provide almost immediate relief. In case of vaginal yeast infection and male yeast infection, you can also apply it topically. However, make sure that the yogurt is not flavored as sugars make the perfect base for the growth of candida.
2. Garlic
Garlic has strong anti-fungal properties that can help in restraining the fungal growth. You can take garlic pills, include garlic in your food preparation and also apply garlic paste topically. Garlic oil, mixed with coconut oil and vitamin E oil can also be applied on the affected part. Women having yeast infection can insert one garlic clove in their vagina every three hours to get relief.
3. Cranberries
Cranberries are anti-fungal as well as anti-bacterial in nature. This nature makes them effective in controlling the spread of Candida. In case of yeast infection of any kind, drinking cranberry juice 6 to 7 times a day can give great results. Again, make sure that the juice is not sweetened as sugars are not good for fungal infections. In case you cannot get unsweetened cranberry juice, its better to take it in tablet form rather than going for sweetened juice.
4. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is one of the best home remedies for yeast infection. It is anti-fungal and can kill yeast on topical application. Organic tea tree oil mixed with almond oil or olive oil can be applied on the yeast infected part of your skin. In vaginal yeast infection, you need to soak a tampon in organic tea tree oil and insert it in your vagina for 3 hours. Application of this oil at least twice daily can provide fast relief from infection.
5. Salt water
People having thrush should rinse their mouths several times with lukewarm water containing salt. It would kill the fungus and restore the normal skin pH, thereby providing relief.
6. Vinegar
Vinegar has been used for treatment of yeast infections from many years. You can drink water mixed with apple cider vinegar for best results. Even soaking infected parts in water containing vinegar is known to control yeast infection and cure it.
7. Coconut oil
Applying coconut oil over the area affected by yeast can give relief as it is anti-fungal in nature. You can also mix equal proportions of this oil with cinnamon oil and apply on the infection. Applying this oil twice a day for seven days can help you get rid of unwanted yeast.
8. Drink lots of water
Physicians and doctors always recommend that you should drink lots of water. This advice becomes more important if you have got yeast infection. Water not only prevents your cells from becoming dehydrated, but is also helpful in removing the toxins from your body. It cleanses your colon and restores the pH of your body, thereby making the environment non-conducive for fungal growth.
These home remedies have been found to be quite effective in case of yeast infection, though not alone. They have to be accompanied by high levels of hygiene, cleanliness of the infected area and wearing comfortable and dry clothes. You should also avoid rubbing soap and other chemicals on the affected area as they can further fuel the infection. Before using these home remedies, make sure that you are not allergic to anything. For best results, do not hesitate to consult your doctor.