Cure for Yeast Infection

Yeast is a type of unicellular fungi, overgrowth of which in the body can cause yeast infection. The most common type of yeast infection is candidiasis, which is caused by candida albicans. Candida albicans normally reside in the intestinal tract. It is only when their population increases, they can cause infection, which usually affects the moist and warm places of the body. Sometimes, yeast infection can also occur in the gastrointestinal tract. The population of yeast in the body is kept under control by the immune system, and the beneficial microorganisms. Factors that can destroy the beneficial microorganisms, and weaken the immune system can cause candidiasis. Some such factors are, prolonged use of antibiotics, a weakened immune system, intake of steroids, oral contraceptives, a diet rich in sugar and change in the pH of the digestive tract.

Yeast Infection Symptoms

It usually affects the places that are warm and remain moist such as, the mouth, throat, vagina and the penis. When it affects the mouth and the throat, it is known as thrush or oral thrush. Oral thrush can cause cottage cheese like appearance on the mouth and the tongue, along with irritation. On the other hand, yeast infection in men can sometimes affect the penis, and cause small lesions to appear at the head of the penis, along with irritation or a burning sensation, and white colored discharge. Vaginal yeast infection can produce symptoms like, itching, burning sensation or irritation in the vagina and pain, especially during intercourse. It can also cause thick and white vaginal discharge, which can look like cottage cheese.

Yeast Infection Treatment

The conventional treatment for yeast infection involves the use of antifungal creams and ointment, oral antifungal medications and vaginal suppositories. The topical antifungal medications that are usually prescribed for yeast infection are, clotrimazole, nystatin, fluconazole, terazol and ketoconazole. Sometimes, in addition to topical medications, one may need the help of oral anti fungal medications to cure it. The most common oral antifungal medications are, fluconazole or diflucan, amphotericin B, caspofungin, or voriconazole. Apart from these, vaginal suppositories can be used by women.

Medications that are usually recommended for this can treat an infection but most often they fail to prevent recurrences. Therefore, many people prefer to opt for the home remedies, which combines diet, supplements and herbal or natural remedies in order to treat this condition.

Plain Yogurt and Buttermilk
Plain, unsweetened yogurt is a popular cure. It contains the beneficial acidophilus bacteria, that can control the growth of candida albicans. People suffering from it should consume plain, unsweetened yogurt several times a day for the effective treatment. Yogurt can also be applied topically on the infected area including the vagina. Likewise, you can also drink buttermilk to check the growth of yeast in your body.

Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar, renowned for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, can also provide relief from the painful symptoms. Women can douche the vaginal area with a solution, prepared by mixing one or two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with about a liter of water. This remedy can be used daily for a few days, but not for more than a week.

Garlic
Like apple cider vinegar, garlic has antifungal properties. You can take one or two cloves of garlic daily to get relief from this infection. Garlic can also be used topically. Just crush one or two cloves of garlic and make a paste. Apply this paste on the affected area of the skin and the vagina. Otherwise, you can wrap the finely cut garlic cloves in a cheesecloth, and then insert it into the vagina. Keep it for about 20 minutes. Be sure to keep a part of the cheesecloth outside, so that you can remove it easily.

Oregano and Tea Tree Oil
Topical application of diluted tea tree oil can help to kill the candida albicans. However, be sure to not use undiluted or full strength tea tree oil on the skin and the vaginal area. Pregnant women should better avoid the use of tea tree oil during this period. Like tea tree oil, diluted oregano oil can also prevent the growth of fungus and yeast.

Supplements
The most widely used supplements are, probiotics or acidophilus supplements. Probiotic supplements contain the beneficial bacteria, mainly the various types of lactobacillus bacteria, which can suppress the growth of candida albicans.

Along with using these remedies, be sure to eliminate or significantly reduce the intake of sugar or sugar rich diet, and any food that contains yeast. At the same time, men and women suffering from yeast infection should try to keep the affected area clean and dry, especially the genital area. They should avoid wearing tight-fitting clothes for this purpose. They should also drink plenty of water throughout the day, as water is another simple natural remedy for yeast infection. But, if the infection persists with all possible care and application of the home remedies, then it is better to seek medical attention.