Safe And Effective Home Remedies For Yeast Infection

Pale white discharge? itchiness? bad odor? you could be having a yeast infection. what is a yeast infection? any home remedies for yeast infection?

Yeast infection, also known as candidiasis, is a prevalent condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It is caused by an overgrowth of the fungus Candida, which naturally resides in our bodies, and can affect various parts such as the mouth, skin, and nails. Although yeast infection is typically linked to vaginal infections in women, it can affect anyone. Not all vaginal itchiness could be yeast infection some are white in color that occurs before your period. However, there are lots of home remedies for yeast infections that you can treat by yourself.

Home Remedies For Yeast Infection: What Is Yeast Infection?

There are different kinds of yeast infections some of the cases could be treated from home itself. there are several safe home remedies for yeast infections.

The condition is often thought to be associated with poor hygiene or sexual promiscuity; however, this is not always the case. Yeast infections can be caused due to many reasons such as a weak immune system, uncontrolled diabetes, excessive use of antibiotics, or misuse of contraceptive pills. If left untreated, it can lead to a range of uncomfortable symptoms like itching, burning, discomfort, pain, and redness. Some of the symptoms could be treated by yourself, follow these effective home remedies for yeast infection.

Fortunately, there are several home remedies for yeast infection with over-the-counter medications and a good lifestyle. These solutions work best in the case of mild infections as they help to soothe the skin and prevent the growth of the fungus. If you are looking for easy home remedies for yeast infection here are some that you can try. 

Natural Home Remedies For Yeast Infection 

The ingredients that fill our kitchen cabinet have some or the other medicinal properties. Some work well to soothe a sore throat, while others help wounds heal faster. In this collection, there are also some ingredients that can help to provide relief from the symptoms of yeast infection and can soothe and prevent fungal growth. 

Yogurt

yogurt is considered safe and one of the effective home remedies for yeast infection. Yoghurt is a great probiotic loaded with healthy bacteria that can help to fight the overgrowth of fungi in the body and provide relief from the symptoms of infection. It is quite effective in restoring the balance of healthy bacteria in the body. When suffering from yeast infection, you can use yogurt two ways– eat it or apply it topically on the infected area. Just remember to use plain Greek yogurt as it is much more effective than flavored ones which are loaded with sugar, preservatives, and artificial flavorings.  

Coconut Oil With Tea Tree Essential Oil

If you are looking for the safest home remedies for yeast infection coconut oil is the key ingredient. Coconut oil with tea tree essential oil. Both these oils are natural antifungal agents that can help to prevent the growth of fungi in the body and are the second best home remedies for yeast infection. Mix 2-3 drops of tea tree oil in 2 tablespoons of coconut oil and apply it on the affected area for relief from itching and pain. Make sure you use pure and organic coconut oil for better results.  

Home Remedies For Yeast Infection: Garlic

wonder how garlic could be one of the safest home remedies for yeast infection(1)? This might seem a little strange, but garlic has been proven to prevent the growth of yeast infection to some amount. With known antifungal and antibiotic properties, adding garlic to your daily diet can have many health benefits. Just do not use it topically as it can lead to irritation and a burning sensation. 

Home Remedies For Yeast Infection: Aloe vera

Aloe vera has a soothing effect on the skin and is safe for any kind of yeast infection. Its antifungal properties help to fight the overgrowth of candida and overcome the symptoms of the condition. You can apply some aloe vera gel on the affected area and leave it for some time. For the best results use natural aloe gel freshly extracted from the aloe leaf.  

Oregano Oil

Combining oregano oil & coconut oil? home remedies for yeast infection!

The oil of oregano is processed from wild oregano that contains two potent antifungals- thymol and carvacrol. The two can help to kill the fungus and recover from the symptoms of any kind of yeast infection. All you have to do is mix a few drops of oregano oil in a carrier oil like coconut, olive, or almond and apply it topically on the affected area. Do not put it inside the vagina.  

Home Remedies For Yeast Infection: Cranberries

You might have heard a lot of home remedies for yeast infection this remedy could make you understand the actual benefit of cranberries.

Cranberry juice has been used for a long time to prevent and treat urinary tract infections (UTIs) and is even effective on the fungus Candida. Some studies prove that drinking cranberry juice regularly can reduce the frequency of vaginal infection in women. You can have it in a limited quantity when suffering from a mild infection.  

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is another ingredient that has antifungal properties. Including it in your diet when suffering from fungal infection can help to restore the pH balance of the body. To make an ACV drink add one-fourth cup of vinegar to a glass of water, mix it well, and drink once daily. You can also add it to your lukewarm bathwater for relief. Try not to use it directly in the affected area, especially when you are suffering from a vaginal infection. 

Boric Acid

when it comes to acids we look on the safe side first, however boric acid is one of the best home remedies for yeast infection which works well but there are certain things you should look for before using it.

This powerful antiseptic and antifungal agent works well on any kind of yeast infection. Boric acid kills the infection-causing fungi and prevents their overgrowth. But be careful while using this home remedy as an excess of boric acid may lead to toxicity and worsen the symptoms. It is best to use it in the direction of your healthcare provider.  

Baking Soda

This is the most common and popular home remedy for treating vaginal infections in women. Being high in pH level, baking soda is believed to balance the natural pH level in the body. So, many people apply it directly to the affected area for relief. However, scientifically it is not recommended to use baking soda as it may cause irritation. When applied to the vagina it may further aggravate the symptoms. It is best to avoid it or consult your doctor before using it.  

Home Remedies For Yeast Infection: Lifestyle Changes

First things first, yeast infection is not only a hygiene issue. There are also numerous factors that may contribute to the growth of the infection-causing fungus on the body. So, when it comes to preventing yeast infection there are several lifestyle changes that you need to make.  

Maintain Good Hygiene

The most effective home remedies for yeast infection are by improving your hygiene.

To avoid genital infection, it is recommended for both men and women to keep their private areas clean and dry all the time. Every time after using the bathroom, it is crucial to clean the genitals from front to back. 

Wear Comfortable Underwear

Ever wonder why your panties stain badly and makes you itchy? one of the important and effective home remedies for yeast infection is changing your panties and keeping them clean.

Avoid wearing synthetic underwear like nylon or polyester that can trap moisture. These fabrics can create a perfect breeding ground for pathogens. Instead, choose cotton and breathable fabric.  

Avoid Tight And Wet Clothes

Wearing tight and wet clothes for too long can trap moisture and promote the growth of yeast in the area. To avoid this, wear comfortable loose clothing. Also, change sweaty clothes after exercising and swimming.  

Home Remedies For Yeast Infection: Avoid Douching

Feminine hygiene products like douches disrupt the pH level and balance of healthy bacteria in the body, leading to infection. They may lead to skin irritation and redness. Exclude them from the routine.  

Eat Healthily

It is said that good food is a good life. When you eat healthy and nutritious food, your body is well-equipped from the inside to fight the infection. Include a good balance of macro and micronutrients rich-foods, particularly probiotics that promote the growth of healthy bacteria in the body.  

Home Remedies For Yeast Infection: Limit Sugar And Alcohol Intake

This is hard to digest for those people who can’t limit their sugar intake or avoid alcohol but yes, avoiding these are one of the best home remedies for yeast infection.

Avoid sugar and alcohol intake as they may disrupt the number of healthy bacteria in the body and can increase the risk of yeast infection. In some cases, undetected diabetes can also lead to yeast infection. So, get yourself tested for it once.  

Manage Stress

Excessive and unmanaged stress can weaken your immune system and make you more susceptible to various kinds of infections. Try to manage your stress level by engaging in mind-soothing activities like meditation, gardening, etc.  

Avoid Hot Tub And Hot Bath

Spending too much time in a hot tub or hot bath can give the infection-causing pathogens a perfect environment to grow. In case you often suffer from yeast infections, try to avoid them.  

Home Remedies For Yeast Infection: Foods To Eat

There is no specific food that can prevent the growth of yeast infection as there are several factors that contribute to it. However, including some healthy food in the diet can improve the immune system and reduce the risk of frequent infection. Some foods to prevent yeast infection are:  

Probiotics

Loaded with healthy bacteria, probiotics can help to promote the growth of healthy gut balance, which is essential for overall well-being. So, include fermented or probiotic foods like yogurt, kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut, and others for good health.  

Home Remedies For Yeast Infection: Include High-fiber Foods

Healthy digestion is another factor that promotes good health and helps to build a strong immune system. When you can digest the food and pass the bowel easily, you will naturally enjoy good health. Ensure this by including high-fiber foods like whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and seeds. 

Antifungal Foods

Foods with antifungal properties like garlic, coconut oil, ginger, turmeric, and oregano can help to prevent the growth of fungus and let you enjoy good health. Make these ingredients a part of your daily diet to stay healthy and fit.  

Hydrating Foods

Foods like, muskmelon, green tea, and more are the key to home remedies for yeast infection since they all are hydrating.

Water helps to flush out toxins from the body and keep you hydrated. So, along with drinking enough water, as mentioned earlier cucumber, watermelon, herbal teas, broths, rose apple, and pear, are some of the examples of hydrating foods.  

Lean Proteins

Eating lean proteins like chicken, turkey, and fish can provide your body with essential amino acids(2) that can strengthen the immune system and help repair damaged tissues. These types of foods can also prevent the growth of yeast on your skin.  

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar has antifungal properties and may help prevent yeast infections. One popular method of using it is to mix two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water and drink it once a day. Do not take ACV in undiluted form. 

Good Source Of Fats

Why fats are considered home remedies for yeast infection?

The outer layer of our cells is made up of fat. So, consuming good fats like coconut oil, olive oil, avocado and avocado oil, sunflower oil, safflower oil, fish oil, flaxseed oil, and chia seed can make the cell membrane healthier and reduce the risk of yeast infection.  

Home Remedies For Yeast Infection: Foods To Avoid

When you are trying to prevent yeast infections there is also a list of foods and drinks that you should avoid. Here are a few common ones that must stay away from:  

Sugary Foods And Drinks

Fungus feed on sugary food and drink. So, the more you include these foods in your diet, the higher the risk of yeast infection will be. To prevent frequent episodes of yeast infection, avoid soda, cold drinks, candies, and pastries. This could be hard, but if you still ask for home remedies for yeast infection? make sure to avoid these and have no regret later.

Refined Carbohydrates

Apart from yeast infection, refined carbs are not healthy they should be avoided as much as you can. Refined carbs can promote in yeast growth, however throwing this for good could be one of the home remedies for yeast infection.

Food made with refined flour and other refined ingredients does not contain any nutrients and can spike your blood sugar level, thereby promoting the growth of yeast. White bread, pasta, and crackers, all are rich in refined carbohydrates. Avoid them for good health.  

Alcohol

Alcohol can be harmful to you in many ways. It can spike the blood sugar level and disrupt the balance of healthy bacteria in the body. Whether you are drinking wine or gin, all of them have the same effect on the body.  

Home Remedies For Yeast Infection: Avoid Dairy Products

Although dairy products like curd are good for your gut, those with high-fat content can trigger yeast infections. It is not the same for everyone, however, if you have experienced any such issue avoid high-fat dairy foods like whole cream and heavy cream.  

Processed Foods

Most processed foods often contain added sugar, preservatives, and other additives. These ingredients can easily trigger yeast growth and inflammation in the body. Along with it, they can weaken your immune system and increase the risk of falling sick.  

High-Sugar Fruits

Yes, fruits! you heard that right. fruits that are high in sugar content is not good and avoiding these would be one of the first steps to home remedies for yeast infection.

Not only bakery products and drinks, but some fruits are also high in sugar content that may not be good for some people. Particularly if you have uncontrolled diabetes, which is one of the reasons for frequent yeast infections, avoid fruits like bananas, grapes, and melons. 

Mushrooms

Mushrooms belong to the category of fungi and may facilitate the growth of yeast within the body. In case of an ongoing fungal disease, it is recommended to abstain from consuming goods falling under this category to minimize the likelihood of further yeast proliferation within the body. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) 

Do Home Remedies For Yeast Infection Actually Work? When Should You Consider An Expert?

Concluding Thoughts 

Yeast infection is a common type of fungal infection that affects both men and women of all age groups. It may cause a range of symptoms like itching, redness, burning sensation, soreness, swelling, irritation, pain, or discomfort.

Try these home remedies for yeast infection by yourself.

However, if you often experience frequent episodes of yeast infection, consult your doctor to know the underlying reasons behind it and start treatment accordingly. Apart from that, try to practice good hygiene habits and avoid irritants that can cause or worsen an infection. With proper care and attention, it is easy to prevent yeast infections to promote overall health and well-being.