Yeast Infection Remedies

Three Ways to Cure a Yeast Infection at Home

What is a Yeast Infection?

A vaginal yeast infection is usually caused by a fungus called Candida albicans which is normally found in small amounts in the vagina.

It's estimated that three out of four women will have a yeast infection in their lifetime. Factors that contribute to vaginal yeast infection include pregnancy, diabetes, and the use oral contraceptives, steroids, and antibiotics. Yeast infection is also more common after menopause due to declining estrogen levels, which thin the vaginal walls.

Home Remedies for a Yeast Infection

Here are some natural remedies and home remedies that are used for yeast infection.

1) Probiotics

Probiotics are a popular natural remedy for yeast infection. They are live microbial organisms that are naturally present in the digestive tract and vagina. Probiotics, sometimes referred to as "friendly" bacteria, suppress the growth of potentially harmful organisms such as Candida, which is why probiotic supplements have been explored as a natural remedy for yeast infection.
The type of probiotic being studied for yeast infections is Lactobacillus, especially Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GR-1, and Lactobacillus fermentum RC-14. In some studies, low levels of Lactobacilli in the vagina have been associated with yeast infection.
Preliminary lab studies have found that Lactobacilli can block the growth of Candida albicans in the vagina. Some clinical trials support these finding, however, the quality of these studies has generally been poor, making it difficult to draw definite conclusions.
Probiotics are available as oral supplements. Probiotic vaginal supposities are also available, although they are more difficult to find. To learn more about probiotics, read my article on acidophilus and probiotics.

2) Boric Acid Suppositories

Another natural remedy for yeast infection is boric acid. Boric acid is a chemical substance with mild antiseptic and antifungal properties. A small Italian study examined the effectiveness of a topical treatment with boric acid compared to oral treamtment with the antifungal drug itraconazole (Sporanox) in 22 women with recurrent yeast infection. The topical boric acid was found to be as effective as itraconazole.
A large study looked at a single 150 milligram dose of the oral medication fluconazole (Diflucan) or boric acid vaginal suppositories (600 milligrams a day for 14 days) in 112 diabetic patients with recurrent vaginal yeast infection. At the end of the study, boric acid vaginal suppositories resulted in a higher cure rate (63.6 percent) compared to fluconazole (28.8 percent).

In another study, the charts of all patients seen at a vaginitis clinic between 1989 and 1994 were reviewed. The charts of people who had been treated with boric acid suppositories (600 miligrams per day for 14 days) for a particular type of candida yeast infection caused by Candida glabrata were examined. Of the 26 cases, 81 percent had a clinical improvement or cure, and the fungus was eradicated in 77 percent of people. Boric acid suppositories were more successful than therapy with topical and oral antifungal medications, which had success rates of less than 50 percent.

Boric acid suppositories are available from some compounding pharmacies. A boric acid suppository product called Yeast Arrest is manufactured by a supplement company based in Oregon called Vitanica. Yeast Arrest contains boric acid and the herbs oregon grape root and calendula.

There are safety concerns, however, with boric acid. Boric acid is toxic and should never be taken internally (by mouth) or placed on cuts or open wounds. It shouldn't be used for a prolonged period of time, or in amounts greater than what's recommended. It should not be used by pregnant women or applied to the skin of infants or children. Side effects of the suppositories may include vaginal burning and irritation.

3) Tea Tree Oil

The essential oil tea tree oil, diluted and applied topically to the vaginal area, has shown some potential as a natural home remedy for yeast infection. A compound called terpinen-4-ol in tea tree oil appears to be responsible.

Unfortunately, there haven't been any clinical studies in humans showing that tea tree oil is effective or safe for yeast infection. Until we have more evidence, it should not be recommended. Tea tree oil must be diluted before applying it to the body. Full strength tea tree oil should never be applied to the vaginal area.

• Tea Tree Oil Fact Sheet
  
• Lavender and Tea Tree Oils Linked to Breast Growth in Boys
  
• How to Use Essential Oils Safely
• Tips on Buying Essential Oils

Symptoms of Yeast Infection

• Itching and burning around the vagina
  
• White vaginal discharge that may look like cottage cheese
  
• Pain during sexual intercourse
  
• Burning with urination

Getting a Yeast Infection Diagnosed

Although there are many over-the-counter remedies and natural home remedies, you should see a doctor to get properly diagnosed and evaluated, especially if:

• This is your first yeast infection.
• You've had other types of vaginal or urinary tract infection.
• You've already tried treating yourself and symptoms persist.
• You have a weakened immune system due to cancer treatments or diseases such as AIDS.
  
• You have a fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, abdominal or back pain, bloody discharge, or difficult or increased urination. Go to the hospital immediately, as it may be a serious condition such as kidney infection, appendicitis, or pelvic inflammatory disease.
  
• You're with a new sex partner or have had multiple sex partners. It's important to make sure you don't have a sexually transmitted disease, since the symptoms can be similar.

Vaginal yeast infection can be confused with other conditions, such as:

• Bacterial vaginosis - this common condition occurs when there is an imbalance between beneficial and harmful bacteria in the vagina. Bacterial vaginosis can spread through sexual intercourse, but it can also occur in women who douche or use an intrauterine birth control device (IUD). It is also common in pregnancy. Symptoms include a gray, foul-smelling discharge with a fishy odor. The odor is often more noticeable after sexual intercourse.
• Noninfectious vaginitis - Douches, perfumed soaps, spermicides, bubble baths and feminine hygiene sprays can irritate the skin around the vagina. Symptoms include itching, burning, and pain. One type, atrophic vaginitis, is caused by lowered estrogen after menopause.
  
  
• Trichomoniasis - Common sexually transmitted disease caused by the parasite trichomonas vaginalis. In men, it usually infects the urinary tract but often produces no symptoms. In women, symptoms can include greenish-yellow discharge that is sometimes frothy. People with trichomoniasis have a higher risk of other sexually transmitted diseases, such as gonorrhea, chlamydia, syphilis, and HIV.

Complications

It's important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis is that if it's not actually a yeast infection, the delay in getting treated can cause complications.

In pregnant women, vaginal yeast infection can result in premature delivery and low birth weight.
Untreated vaginal yeast infection can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease, a condition which can scar the fallopian tubes and cause infertility.

Trichomoniasis and bacterial vaginosis have also been linked to an increased risk of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and other sexually transmitted diseases.

Prevention Tips

• Don't douche.
  
• Use a condom.
  
• Wear cotton instead of synthetic underwear.
  
• Avoid baths, hot tubs, or whirlpools.
  
• Avoid scented products, including tampons and feminine hygiene sprays.

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How to stop yeast infections naturally and fast

Yeast infection is very commonly found infection in women which can be extremely embarrassing to deal with. Unfortunately, the recurrence chances of yeast infection are very high. Although, there are some preventions that if taken can help to reduce yeast infection to a higher level.

• Body Hygiene. Keeping the vaginal and surrounding areas clean is very important. Wash the entire area properly when taking shower. Make sure to dry the area before wearing clothes. Avoid wearing very tight under garments.
• Do not share wash clothes or towels with others. Make sure to change your clothes immediately after swimming and exercise. Sweaty and wet clothes provide a haven for bacterial infection. Use hot water to wash your clothes and under garments.
• Essential Food and vitamins. Nutritious food and vitamins are essential for a healthy lifestyle. Taking daily supplement of designed to prevent yeast infection may help. Make sure to eat vegetables, fruits rich in fiber. Proteins and grains are important for health and mind.
• Eat Yogurt. Acidophilus bacteria found in yogurt is beneficial to prevent yeast infection. Avoid drinking alcoholic drinks and soft drinks. Reduce the intake of processed food s and foods high in sugar.
• Anti-fungal Cream. A Vaginal Yeast Infection is usually treated with an application of a vaginal anti fungal cream or taking tablet. Oral treatment is the recommended procedure if your yeast infection keeps on coming back.

 

Yeast Infection Cures

A vaginal yeast infection is characterized by burning, itching, soreness, pain during intercourse and/or urination, and vaginal discharge that looks rather like cottage cheese. A diagnosis is confirmed through identification of the yeast under a microscope from a specimen scraped from the vaginal area.

Yeast infections occur when new yeast is introduced into the vaginal area, or when there is an increase in the quantity of yeast already present in the vagina relative to the quantity of normal bacteria. When normal, protective bacteria are eradicated by antibiotics or by immuno suppressive drugs, for example, the yeast can multiply, invade tissues, and cause irritation of the lining of the vagina.

Diagnosis: Before starting treatment for a yeast infection, please make certain that it is the proper diagnosis. Two other similar vaginitis conditions can be easily confused with this condition. So how to diagnose your vaginal ailment? Bacterial vaginosis is caused by bacteria, while candidiasis (a yeast infection), is caused by the excessive presence of yeast, and Trichomonas vaginalis (trichomoniasis) is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) caused by a parasite. To complete your own differently diagnosis for your vaginitis, consider your symptoms (most indicative listed first):

Bacterial Vaginosis: Relatively thin, whitish, foul-smelling discharge; little to no discomfort; discharge most common following sexual activity; vaginal pH above 4.5.

Trich: "Fishy" smell, itchiness (potentially from thighs to urethra), frothy yellow-green discharge, labial swelling. Sexually communicated.

Yeast Infection: "Cottage cheese" discharge; burning, itching, or pain related to sexual activity or urination; redness. Most likely in the case of someone with a weakened immune system.

 

While yeast infections are thought to be mainly a problem among women, did you know that men can also get them? This is especially true for a man whose wife is suffering from one, since having sex will pass the infection back and forth.

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The itching, the burning...aghhhh! It's enough to test the limits of sanity for any woman.
Yeast infections are also known as Candida, Candidiasis is an infection caused by a group of microscopic fungi or yeast and there are more than 20 species of Candida.

You can develop yeast infections around dentures, under the breast, vagina and lower abdomen, nailbeds, and beneath skin folds. Yeast infections tend to become more common with increased age, but can occur at any age and are known to cause vagina odors.

And while yeast infections are thought to be mainly a problem among women, did you know that men can also get them? This is especially true for a man whose wife is suffering from one, since having sex will pass the infection back and forth.

For a woman, however, the problem is a little trickier, since yeast thrives in a dark, moist environment. Simply put, the vagina is yeast's dream home!

Many women (and men) suffering from yeast infections resort to the remedies found in a drug store: creams, suppositories, and other "medical" remedies. The problem with these is that they tend to help for only a short period of time and then the yeast comes back with a vengeance.

In my experience, there are other, more effective ways to combat this evil menace.

In this article, I will highlight some remedies that have worked for me, as a woman. Most, if not all, of these can be adapted for a man, as well.
 

Here are some yeast infection home remedies that have worked for me:

 

Plain yogurt

The good bacteria in plain yogurt helps fight yeast and yogurt can be used both internally and externally. BUT, be sure you buy plain, unsweetened yogurt. Since sugar feeds yeast, this is a crucial point. You can also make your own, using a yogurt starter. I have done this myself and it is simple and the results are quite good. The advantage is that you can use other types of milk, such as soy or almond. While I made mine directly on the stovetop, you can also purchase a yogurt maker, if you want to take the thinking out of the process. Whether purchased or homemade, yogurt is a great thing to eat before meals because it provides "good bacteria" for your stomach to aid in digestion.

For a topical treatment, you can also dip a tampon in plain yogurt and insert it into your vagina or simply rub some on the outside. I have found, however, that leaving it on for a prolonged period tends to have the opposite effect. It seems that once it has done its job, it is best to wipe it off or you will feel itchier due to the moisture.

Garlic

Garlic is a big enemy of yeast! This is one of the most effective home remedies I have found for instant relief. Inserting one garlic tab (such as Shaklee's Garlic Tabs) or a garlic clove into the vagina every few hours or as needed provides soothing relief. If you use garlic tabs, be sure the ingredients are natural and pure. I highly recommend the Shaklee garlic tabs. They are what I have always used with great results.

Of course, garlic can be taken internally, as well. Again, the Shaklee garlic tabs work great. I have also used Kyolic garlic tabs and liquid in the past with good results. Or, if you don't mind the smell, you can press a whole garlic clove and drink it down quickly with water. I have found this to be very effective. Do it as often as necessary.

Garlic is one of nature's amazing "drugs" that has a number of other health benefits, including lowering blood pressure and reducing bad cholesterol. It is a natural antibiotic. In fact, my Greek father-in-law eats raw garlic everyday and, in his mid-sixties, is very rarely sick.

 

Apple-cider vinegar (with the mother)

Apple-cider vinegar has many health benefits (including aiding in weight loss) and can be used both internally and externally, as well. However, it is very strong, so it is not recommended that you apply it directly on the skin. It will kill the yeast, but it will burn like nothing you've ever felt! The best external application is to add about a cup of it into your bathwater and take a nice hot bath. This will feel very relaxing and soothing and will help temporarily. I don't find it as effective long-term, however, as the garlic suppositories. They provide full-day relief.

The type of vinegar I recommend is Bragg's Apple Cider Vinegar, with the Mother. It is important that it have the mother, as this is more natural and less processed. Never use plain, white vinegar! This actually feeds the yeast instead of killing it.
Apple cider vinegar can be used as a home remedy for many ailments.

Water

In my opinion, this is one of the world's most powerful, secret remedies for any illness! I strongly believe that if we all drank the amount of water our bodies need, we would see a great reduction in all types of sicknesses.

Most doctors say that we should drink at least eight 8-oz. glasses of water daily, but many people need even more than that. I have found that simply drinking enough water greatly reduces my likelihood for getting a yeast infection. Because I am drinking more water, and subsequently urinating more frequently, my body is able to flush out the sugars that feed the yeast.

Be sure to drink water that is pure and free from toxins. It is best to purchase some type of water filtration system, such as one made by Shaklee. Other brands that are good are the Brita and PUR brands. Be sure that regardless of what system you purchase, you do your research first to be sure that it will be effective in its performance.

If you do only one thing, drink more water. It's easy, accessable, natural, and has no side effects!
See our article on detoxing your body with a water detox.

Oil of Oregano
This is an amazing herb! It is very potent against yeast. Take it internally daily, according to directions. Be sure, also, that the type of oil you choose has a high carvacrol content, as this is the active ingredient. I recommend Oreganol Super Strength P73.

Beneficial bacteria supplement

A healthy body contains trillions of microoragnisms, most of which reside in the colon. Their main function is to provide balance for less-desirable organisms (such as yeast). I use Shaklee Optiflora to help maintain these probiotics and prebiotics in my intestines. I have used other products in the past, but have not found that their level of quality matched this product's. Other products can only gaurantee a certain amount of organisms at manufacture. However, Shaklee gaurantees that the bacteria will be alive when you ingest it and be delivered to the intestines. So, at this point, I can only suggest their product.

Solutions-4-You

This is a botanical, non-toxic multi-purpose solution that can be sprayed directly onto the skin. It is extremely soothing on a yeast infection and is effective at killing yeast. I use it straight from the bottle, without diluting it. I find it works best that way, but please be aware that this is not how the company recommends using it. It can be purchased at this site: solutions-4-you.com.

Here are some things that you should try to avoid when fighting a yeast infection:

Taking birth control pills - Birth control pills weaken the immune system, making you succeptable to yeast.

Taking antibiotics - Antibiotics also weaken the immune system.

Douching - Douching can upset the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina.
Feminine deodorants - These can be very irritating to anyone, especially those with yeast infections.
Non-cotton underwear - Any underwear made of man-made fibers is not breathable, as cotton is. They trap moisture and heat, creating a perfect environment for yeast.

Clothing that is tight in the crotch - Tight clothing also creates a warm environment for yeast to grow.
Sitting in a wet bathing suit for a prolonged period - This creates not only a warm environment, but a moist one, as well. Perfect for yeast growth!

Pantyhose - Tight, man-made fiber that also allows yeast to flourish.
Foods that feed yeast - Avoid sugar, yeast, refined foods (such as white flour). See our list of food to eat and avoid when you have candida.
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Mouth Yeast Infection

A mouth yeast infection can be a scary thing. Technically, the term is thrush and happens mostly in infants and babies.
 Adults can get a mouth yeast infection though, so it's important to know how to cure it as fast as possible.
There are many triggers that can cause a mouth yeast infection. Often people who suffer from asthma and use inhalers will get a mouth yeast infection. The steroids in the inhaler medication can bring about a mouth yeast infection very easily. That's why it's so important to rinse after using an inhaler.

Symptoms of a mouth yeast infection include white patchy sores on the mouth that may bleed if they are scraped or tongued. They are usually very uncomfortable and can look pretty gross.

A mouth yeast infection in adults can by a symptom of a weak immune system so watch out for that. For example, people who have HIV have a much higher probability of developing a mouth yeast infection or thrush.

Having a dry mouth can lead to thrush as well. The condition opens your mouth tissue up to bacteria and makes it more vulnerable.

Diabetes causes a mouth yeast infection as well. Candida or Yeast thrives off of sugars and a diabetic will have higher sugar levels in their blood so it only follows that they are more vulnerable to the condition.
Antibiotics may cause a mouth yeast infection by killing off too much bacteria at once in your mouth. A result is candida overgrowth or a yeast infection. When a yeast infection occurs, it can occur anywhere - even the mouth.

Pregnancy can bring on a mouth yeast infection because of changes in hormonal levels. Think you may be pregnant? See the signs and symptoms of pregnancy.

Mouth Yeast Infection Treatments:

Drink cool liquids to cool and soothe the mouth yeast infection.
Rinse your mouth with warm saltwater
Avoid sugars and complex carbohydrates to "starve" the infection
Gentian violet is a dye that kills bacteria and fungi. This can help. This solution should only be used on adults. Talk with your doctor on how to apply this remedy.
 

Recurring Yeast Infections

For the average, relatively healthy woman, non-recurring yeast infection is a non-imposing, slightly irritating situation that is generally cleared within a week using over-the-counter or homeopathic remedies.

Recurring yeast infections or chronic yeast infection is not only annoying but it can also put you at risk of other illnesses like diabetes and chronic urinary tract infection.

Recurring yeast infections are a common problem in diabetics and in those who consume a high sugar diet.
When you have more than four infections in a year, you have a condition known as recurring yeast infection. This article will discuss some of the common causes of recurring yeast infection.

Birth control is one of the most common causes of recurring yeast infection. Some women have reported that their recurring yeast infection has gotten better after discontinuation of the pill.

Another cause of recurring yeast infection is food, especially sugars and sweet treats. If the level of these sugars are not controlled well and allowed to get high, you will likely experience recurring yeast infection.
Moisture trapped around the vagina can also be the cause of recurring yeast infection. One of the last causes of recurring yeast infection is a change in the immune system. Women who have HIV are also at risk for recurring yeast infection.

It is also important for recurring yeast infection sufferers to become familiar with the possible causes of their infections. For those with recurring yeast infections, the simple touch, tingle, or pain in the genital or pubic region can be the earliest alarm that the infection has returned.

While many patients with recurring yeast infections are eventually placed on prescription medications, medical professionals are reluctant to use this course of treatment because of the possibility of becoming immune to the drug.
It is often suggested that recurring yeast infections be treated by alternating over-the-counter medication for one course, and a prescription for the next.
One of the most common prescriptions for stubborn or recurring yeast infections is Diflucan, in varying strengths as needed. When might a recurring yeast infection happen. For example, an individual taking doxycycline or tetracycline for the prevention of acne is at a higher risk for developing recurring yeast infections. The problem with conventional medicine is that it generally does not restore a healthy body ecology, allowing a recurring yeast infection.

Skin infections involving Candida species can become a recurring yeast infection whenever the conditions leading to the infection do not change.
If those with recurring yeast infections of the skin do not keep the affected areas clean and dry, even after the infection is treated, recurrences are likely.

Perhaps the most severe form of a recurring yeast infection is that which affects the bowels. Candida overgrowth in the colon may not affect the bowel function but, instead, provide a reservoir for recurring yeast infections in other body areas, especially in the urogenital tract.
Cure A proper diagnosis is very important to ensure you receive the most appropriate and effective treatment to cure your yeast infection.

Some products merely relieve the symptoms, and others cure the infection. When choosing the treatment for your yeast infection, select a cure so you have the best chance to eliminate your yeast infection. If you're treating a yeast infection, you should abstain from sex during the course of the treatment and cure (about seven days).

Prescribed medicines may cure yeast infection but if you experience recurring yeast infections don't ignore it as it may lead to chronic yeast infection.