Natural Remedies for Yeast Infections

Yeast infection is a type of fungal infection that usually affects the warm and moist places of the body such as, the mouth, throat, genital area and the vagina. Yeast is a type of unicellular fungus that thrives in a humid and warm environment. The most common type of yeast infection is candidiasis, which is caused by candida albicans. Candida albicans reside in the intestinal tract, but do not cause any health problem under normal circumstances, as their population is kept under control by a strong immune system and the beneficial microorganisms residing in the intestinal tract. So, factors that can weaken the immune system and destroy the beneficial microorganisms can cause yeast infection. Some such common factors that can cause this condition are, prolonged use of antibiotics, steroids, oral contraceptives and a diet rich in sugar. However, it can be treated with some effective natural remedies.

Symptoms of Yeast Infection

Before starting the treatment, it is important to make sure that the infection is indeed caused by yeast. For this, one should know the symptoms of this condition. When yeast infection affects the mouth and the throat, it is known as oral thrush, symptoms of which is cottage cheese like appearance on the mouth and the tongue. Women can experience vaginal yeast infection, which can produce symptoms like, itching or irritation and a burning sensation in the vagina, vaginal discharge that can look like cottage cheese and pain, especially during intercourse. Though yeast infection of the genital area is more common in women, men too can get this condition occasionally. Sometimes, yeast infection in men can affect the penis, which can cause some small lesions to appear at the head of the penis, along with causing itching or burning sensation in the genital area and white colored discharge.

Yeast Infection Treatment

Antifungal creams, ointments and oral antifungal medications are the options for conventional treatment. Vaginal suppositories are also used for treating vaginal yeast infection. These medications can cure this condition, but they can cause a few side effects. Moreover, they may fail to prevent its recurrences. This is the reason why home remedies for this condition are so popular. A few of the most effective remedies are explained below.

Plain Yogurt
Plain yogurt, i.e. unsweetened yogurt is a simple, but excellent home remedy for treating this condition. Yogurt contains the beneficial acidophilus bacteria, that can control the growth of candida albicans. Yogurt can be consumed, as well as applied topically on the affected area.

Buttermilk
Like yogurt, buttermilk also contains beneficial bacteria and hence, can prevent the outgrowth of candida albicans in the body. Both buttermilk and yogurt need to be consumed several times a day to get rid of yeast infections.

Garlic
Garlic is renowned for its antifungal properties. It can prove immensely helpful in treating candidiasis. Ideally, one should consume two to three cloves of garlic daily to get relief from this condition. This home remedy is also suitable for topical application. Just crush one or two cloves of garlic and apply the paste on the affected area of the skin. For vaginal yeast infection, wrap finely cut garlic cloves in a cheesecloth and insert it into the vagina keeping a part of the cheesecloth outside, so that you can remove it after 15 to 20 minutes.

Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil can be applied topically to destroy candida albicans, as it has antifungal properties. Use of undiluted tea tree oil should be avoided. Pregnant women should better avoid this remedy.

Vinegar
Both white and apple cider vinegar can be used for relief from this condition. Vinegar can inhibit the growth of fungus and effectively cure a fungal infection. Just mix a small amount of vinegar and water, and soak the infected area of the skin in it. Keep it for about 10 to 15 minutes and repeat the process for a few days.

Supplements
Along with the above mentioned home remedies, you can also consider supplements to treat this condition. Probiotics or acidophilus supplements can be quite beneficial in treating yeast infections. Probiotic supplements contain numerous beneficial bacteria, which can control the proliferation of candida albicans in the body.

Be sure to reduce the consumption of sugar and sugary foods, avoid foods that contain yeast and consider to follow a yeast free diet, keep the genital area clean and dry, and avoid wearing tight-fitting clothes. Also, never forget to talk to your physician, if the infection persists and worsens even after using the above mentioned home remedies.