Home Remedies for Yeast Infections
Yeast infection is a relatively common occurrence for females. Approximately three out of every four women will have at least one infection in their lifetime. These occur when there is a build up of a fungus called Candida albicans. Yeast infections are more common during pregnancy, but could also be related to diabetes, taking antibiotics or steroids, or using oral contraceptives. Post-menopausal women are also more likely to have yeast infections because they have reduced levels of estrogen in their system. The most common symptoms of a yeast infection are itching and burning in the vaginal area. There may also be a white discharge from the vagina. Urination and sexual intercourse tend to cause a painful burning sensation. Since these are relatively common, there are many over the counter medications that are available. However, there are also many home remedies for yeast infections that you could try out if the need arises.
Probiotics are popular home remedies for yeast infections
One of the most popular home remedies for yeast infections are probiotics. These are living microbial organisms that occur naturally in the vagina and in the digestive tract. You may also hear probiotics called “friendly” bacteria, and that is because they fight against the growth of harmful bacteria like Candida. There are a few lab studies that research the effectiveness of probiotics in fighting against bad bacteria. It should be noted, however, that the studies lending support to probiotics are relatively weak, so there are still not any definite conclusions that can be drawn. Nonetheless, you can take probiotics as an oral supplement. There also probiotic vaginal suppositories, but these are not so easy to find. You may have to go to the doctor for those.
Home remedies for yeast infections include boric acid
Other home remedies for yeast infections include boric acid suppositories. Boric acid is a natural remedy that fights against the harmful bacteria that causes yeast infections. It is a chemical that has antifungal and antiseptic properties. You can buy boric acid suppositories at a few compounding pharmacies. There is one product in particular called Yeast Arrest that is available and functions in this manner. It is important to note that boric acid does carry some safety concerns. It is toxic and should therefore not be taken orally, nor should it come into contact with an open wound. You should also use it for a short amount of time and only in the amount that is recommended, not in excess of that. If you are pregnant you should not use boric acid.
Lesser known home remedies for yeast infections
There are some less-known home remedies for yeast infections, one of them being the use of tea tree oil. This oil is diluted and then topically applied to the vaginal area. There is a compound present in the oil called terpinen-4-ol that seems to be the active agent. So far there are no clinical studies confirming the effective of tea tree oil. Since there is still no evidence, this is the least desirable alternative. What is for sure is that tea tree oil must be diluted first before being applied to the body.
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