A yeast infection will not go away on it's own and can lead to other serious problems if not treated. Did you know that men can also get them? This is especially true for a man whose wife is suffering from one, since having sex will pass the infection back and forth. Many women (and men) suffering from yeast infections resort to the remedies found in a drug store: creams, suppositories, and other 'medical' remedies. The problem with these is that they tend to help for only a short period of time and then the yeast comes back with a vengeance. In my experience, there are other, more effective ways to combat this evil menace.I will highlight some remedies that have worked for me, as a woman. Most, if not all, of these can be adapted for a man, as well.
Plain yogurt
The good bacteria in plain yogurt helps fight yeast and yogurt can be used both internally and externally. BUT, be sure you buy plain, unsweetened yogurt. Since sugar feeds yeast, this is a crucial point. You can also make your own, using a yogurt starter. I have done this myself and it is simple and the results are quite good. The advantage is that you can use other types of milk, such as soy or almond. While I made mine directly on the stovetop, you can also purchase a yogurt maker, if you want to take the thinking out of the process. Whether purchased or homemade, yogurt is a great thing to eat before meals because it provides 'good bacteria' for your stomach to aid in digestion.For a topical treatment, you can also dip a tampon in plain yogurt and insert it into your vagina or simply rub some on the outside.However, leaving it on for a prolonged period tends to have the opposite effect. It seems that once it has done its job, it is best to wipe it off or you will feel itchier due to the moisture.
Garlic
Garlic is a big enemy of yeast! This is one of the most effective home remedies I have found for instant relief. Inserting one garlic tab (such as Shaklee's Garlic Tabs) or a garlic clove into the vagina every few hours or as needed provides soothing relief. If you use garlic tabs, be sure the ingredients are natural and pure. Of course, garlic can be taken internally, as well.Garlic tabs workor, if you don't mind the smell, you can press a whole garlic clove and drink it down quickly with water. Do it as often as necessary. Garlic is one of nature's amazing 'drugs' that has a number of other health benefits, including lowering blood pressure and reducing bad cholesterol.
Apple-cider vinegar
Apple-cider vinegar has many health benefits (including aiding in weight loss) and can be used both internally and externally, as well. However, it is very strong, so it is not recommended that you apply it directly on the skin. It will kill the yeast, but it will burn like nothing you've ever felt! The best external application is to add about a cup of it into your bathwater and take a nice hot bath. This will feel very relaxing and soothing and will help temporarily. Never use plain, white vinegar! This actually feeds the yeast instead of killing it.
Water
In my opinion, this is one of the world's most powerful, secret remedies for any illness! I strongly believe that if we all drank the amount of water our bodies need, we would see a great reduction in all types of sicknesses.Most doctors say that we should drink at least eight 8-oz. glasses of water daily, but many people need even more than that. Simply drinking enough water greatly reducesthe likelihood for getting a yeast infection. Becausedrinking more water, and subsequently urinating more frequently, your body is able to flush out the sugars that feed the yeast.Be sure to drink water that is pure and free from toxins. It is best to purchase some type of water filtration. If you do only one thing, drink more water. It's easy, accessable, natural, and has lesser side effects!
Oil of Oregano
This is an amazing herb! It is very potent against yeast. Take it internally daily, according to directions. Be sure, also, that the type of oil you choose has a high carvacrol content, as this is the active ingredient. I recommend Oreganol Super Strength P73.
Here are some things that you should try to avoid when fighting a yeast infection:
- Taking birth-control pills-Birth control pills weaken the immune system, making you succeptable to yeast.
- Taking antibiotics-Antibiotics also weaken the immune system.
- Douching-Douching can upset the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina.
- Feminine deodorants-These can be very irritating to anyone, especially those with yeast infections.
- Non-cotton underwear-Any underwear made of man-made fibers is not breathable, as cotton is. They trap moisture and heat, creating a perfect environment for yeast.
- Clothing that is tight in the crotch-Tight clothing also creates a warm environment for yeast to grow.
- Sitting in a wet bathing suit for a prolonged period-This creates not only a warm environment, but a moist one, as well. Perfect for yeast growth!
- Pantyhose-Tight, man-made fiber that also allows yeast to flourish.
- Foods that feed yeast-Avoid sugar, yeast, and refined foods, such as white flour
answered by C