Vaginal Yeast Infection, commonly termed as Yeast vaginitis, Candidal vaginitis or Candidal vulvovaginitis is an infection that usually happens due to an overgrowth of the Candida fungus, i.e. Candid albicans. Although it is predominantly more common in women, men too can get infected by the fungus just like any other sexually transmitted diseases. Also Read: Vaginal Yeast Infection: Causes, Symptoms And Treatment
Though it might not be chronic, it is quite unpleasant and not only causes pain and discomfort but also make it difficult for a person to perform the daily chores. The infection is mostly characterized by unbearable itching, irritation, inflammation, swelling, sudden redness in and around the vulva and greyish-white smelly discharge.
Vaginitis can occur due to the following causes:
- Allergy
- Underlying infections
- Deficiency of the female hormone estrogen
- Chemical skin irritants like perfumed soap, vaginal sprays, washes etc
- Sexual Activity
The holistic science of Ayurveda terms this infection as an amalgamation of yoni dahan and yoni kandu, two different conditions that affect the vagina and mostly occurs due to an imbalance of the Kapha Doshas. Ayurveda usually classifies this condition as Kaphaja yoni vyapata, i.e. an imbalance in the vaginal flora. This imbalance mostly occurs due to improper diet which leads to agnimandya i.e. low digestive fire. Ayurvedic or herbal remedies mostly depend upon balancing the Kapha dosha, chalking out a healthy diet plan, maintaining proper personal hygiene and boosting digestion. In most cases, formulations like Gandhaka Rasayana, Neem powders or pastes, Pradrantak Churna, or Nirgundi Oil are used to provide relief from the infection but one can also use easily available herbal ingredients to soothe the condition.
Well, fret not, if you are suffering from this uncomfortable condition, try some of these home remedies that are easily available in the house:
Home Remedies For Yeast Vaginitis
Yoghurt
Being a natural probiotic, the good bacteria in yoghurt builds immunity, maintains optimum PH balance and prevents the growth of bacteria or yeast in the vaginal area. It is also extremely effective in restoring the body’s flora to a natural state.
Apply homemade yoghurt directly onto the affected areas or dip a tampon in it and wear it for 20-30 minutes and then wash off with cool water. Do this twice a day to see quick results.
Tea tree oil And Honey
Imbued with potent anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties, the oil obtained from Tea tree leaves hold high significance in soothing dry, chaffed and inflamed skin. Honey on the other hand moistures the inflamed skin. But one must keep in mind to dilute the tea tree oil in warm water before applying it on the area as it may cause a little irritation.
Instil 2-3 drops of tea tree oil in lukewarm water, add a spoonful of honey to it and dab it over the infected part using a cotton ball to get effective results.
Aloe Vera Gel
Fresh aloe vera gel scraped out of the aloe barbadensis leaves have incredible soothing and moisturising properties that provides immediate relief from irritated, inflamed itchy skin. Thanks to its anti-microbial properties, it restricts the growth of infection-causing bacteria or fungi.
Apply a thin layer of the freshly extracted aloe gel on to the affected part to alleviate inflammation and provide cool sensation. Also Read: Aloe Vera: Medicinal Uses, Benefits For Skin And Hair, Supplements And Recipes
Apple Cider Vinegar
ACV portrays strong anti-bacterial and antifungal properties that are used to treat both internally and externally. Thanks to the bioactive ingredients, the tonic fights toxins and shields the vaginal area from fungus and bacteria that ultimately causes infection. It also restores balance in the vaginal flora.
You can either drink a spoonful of ACV with a glass of lukewarm water or add half a cup of apple cider vinegar into a bucket of lukewarm water and wash the vaginal area regularly with it to treat the infection.
Virgin Coconut Oil
Owing to its multifaceted properties like anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and anti-viral, this fatty oil obtained from fresh coconut flesh is pivotal in the case of vaginitis. Loaded with healthful nutrients, coconut oil not only thwarts the growth of fungus or bacteria in the vaginal area but also soothes dry, inflamed irritated skin.
Gently massage the affected area with a thin layer of coconut and leave it on for 30 minutes. Wash off with cool water. Perform this ritual twice a day to get rid of the Candid fungus.
Homemade Vaginal Wash
Rose Water-Witch Hazel Vaginal Wash
Ingredients:
1/3 cup of rosewater
¼ cup of witch hazel
1 tbsp of rosemary oil
6 drops of lavender essential oil
1 cup of distilled Water
Method:
Mix all the ingredients in a large bowl.
Pour it in a spray bottle.
Spritz it on a wash cloth and clean your intimate area with it.
Wash with water after use.
How It Works:
The abundance of antioxidants in rose water effectively helps in treating various vaginal infections, and soothing skin irritation. While lavender oil induces a calming effect on the affected area, witch hazel tightens up superficial cells and also heals hemorrhoids and postpartum swelling. Rosemary oil increases blood circulation in the genital area and prevents further bacterial infections.
Chamomile - Tea Tree Oil Vaginal Wash
Ingredients
1 cup chamomile tea (cooled)
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
2 tbsp castile soap
1 tsp oil of oregano
5 drops of tea tree oil
Method:
Whip all the ingredients into a homogeneous solution.
Pour it in a pump or spray bottle.
Use a wet wash cloth to apply it on the affected area.
Make some lather, clean and rinse it properly.
How It Works:
The strong anti-microbial property of ACV is quintessential against Candida and helps in treating and healing Vaginal infection in a jiffy. While tea tree oil and chamomile tea soothe and reduce itching of the inflamed skin, oil of oregano imbued with phenolic components and anti-fungal qualities keeps the infection from spreading to other areas.
Rose Water-Witch Hazel Vaginal Wash
Ingredients:
1/3 cup of rosewater
¼ cup of witch hazel
1 tbsp of rosemary oil
6 drops of lavender essential oil
1 cup of distilled Water
Method:
Mix all the ingredients in a large bowl.
Pour it in a spray bottle.
Spritz it on a wash cloth and clean your intimate area with it.
Wash with water after use.
How It Works:
The abundance of antioxidants in rose water effectively helps in treating various vaginal infections, and soothing skin irritation. While lavender oil induces a calming effect on the affected area, witch hazel tightens up superficial cells and also heals hemorrhoids and postpartum swelling. Rosemary oil increases blood circulation in the genital area and prevents further bacterial infections.
Chamomile - Tea Tree Oil Vaginal Wash
Ingredients
1 cup chamomile tea (cooled)
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
2 tbsp castile soap
1 tsp oil of oregano
5 drops of tea tree oil
Method:
Whip all the ingredients into a homogeneous solution.
Pour it in a pump or spray bottle.
Use a wet wash cloth to apply it on the affected area.
Make some lather, clean and rinse it properly.
How It Works:
The strong anti-microbial property of ACV is quintessential against Candida and helps in treating and healing Vaginal infection in a jiffy. While tea tree oil and chamomile tea soothe and reduce itching of the inflamed skin, oil of oregano imbued with phenolic components and anti-fungal qualities keeps the infection from spreading to other areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I Know If I Have A Yeast Infection?
You may have a yeast infection if you observe symptoms like:
- Itching and irritation in the vaginal region
- A burning sensation during sexual activity or while urinating
- Redness and inflammation of the vulva region
- Extreme vaginal pain, soreness
- Thick, white, odour-free discharge that resembles cottage cheese.
- Watery vaginal discharge
Can I Treat Vaginal Yeast Infection Myself?
Yes, vaginal yeast infection can be treated at home by:
Over-the-counter antifungal creams or suppositories are readily available at most stores and online pharmacies.
Consuming yogurt with live cultures or probiotic supplements supports maintaining the natural balance of bacteria and yeast in the system.
Boric acid suppositories are available for recurrent yeast infections but should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
Maintaining the vaginal area clean and dry is essential; avoiding scented products and using breathable cotton inners can help prevent and manage yeast infections.
How Do My Child Get A Yeast Infection?
A yeast infection can develop due to various reasons:
Imbalance of natural bacteria and yeast in the vagina, often due to antibiotics or hormonal changes.
Yeast easily thrives on sugar, so a diet high in sugar can contribute to infections.
Medical conditions that weaken the immune system, like diabetes or HIV/AIDS, can increase susceptibility.
Hormonal fluctuations during pregnancy, menstrual cycles, or hormone therapy can lead to yeast infections.
Wearing tight, non-breathable clothing can create an environment where yeast thrives.
Can A Vaginal Yeast Infection Settle On Its Own?
In a few cases, a mild yeast infection may settle on its own, if certain contributing factors like antibiotics or high sugar intake are avoided. However, treating a yeast infection is recommended to ease symptoms and avert complications. OTC medications are easily accessible and effective in most cases, but if symptoms persist or worsen, it’s important to seek guidance from a healthcare provider for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.
Conclusion:
Eating alkaline-based diet mainly emphasizes mindful eating behaviour comprising healthy choices of foods including vegetables, fruits, nuts, lentils and drinking plenty of water, while limiting sugar, meat, processed foods and alcohol. Thereby supports to enhance total well-being, shed excess fat, reduce inflammation and lower the risk of cancer.
References:
Treatment of Vulvovaginal Candidiasis—An Overview of Guidelines and the Latest Treatment Methods
Małgorzata Satora,1,* Arkadiusz Grunwald,1 Bartłomiej Zaremba,1 Karolina Frankowska,1 Klaudia Żak,1 Rafał Tarkowski,2 and Krzysztof Kułak2
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10455317/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/vaginal-yeast-infection
