Posted in Category : Natural Cures | April 23, 2009

Home Remedy For Yeast Infection

Like most diseases or infections that occur in the body, a Yeast infection too is caused by imbalances in the body. Contrary to popular belief, this infection can occur in both men and women, and can affect any region of the body where sweat collects. Unfortunately, women are most often affected. To make matters worse, the infection is most commonly found in the vagina. While it is not a serious condition, it can be very irritating and sometimes quite painful.

The infection is caused by an outbreak of a kind of Yeast, Candida Albicans, which can be described as a kind of fungus. To be able to treat it properly, it is important to understand that these little organisms live in the human body quite peacefully. The acidity of the vagina keeps their growth in check, but when there is an imbalance in the body, these microbes are allowed to grow, causing the infection.

This imbalance may be caused by a variety of factors. For instance, pregnancy or menstruation causes hormonal changes in the body that may cause this condition. Similarly, using strong antibiotics or birth control pills may cause it. Even the use of certain cleaning products or wearing tight clothes that do not let the area breathe may be responsible. Stress can also lower the body’s immunity, allowing yeast to thrive. The first thing one must do is to stop doing whatever may be causing it after consulting a doctor.

Symptoms: The infection starts with a slight itching and burning around the vagina, which gets progressively worse. The skin around the area may begin to swell, and become sensitive to the slightest touch. A white discharge from the vagina may also be noticed. You will also feel discomfort during urination, and intercourse may be painful.

Home Remedies: Applying curd to the infected are has long been used as the best cure for this infection. Curd contains millions of healthy bacteria, which will replace the yeast. One may dab curd onto the area many times a day. You can also soak a tampon in curd, and place it in the affected region for an hour, repeating this a few times through the day.

You can regularly apply some apple-cider vinegar to the affected area. The acidity of the vinegar will slow down the growth of the yeast. A mild garlic paste may be applied to ease the itchy sensation that is caused by the yeast.

The intake of pro-biotic bacteria will strengthen the body’s immune system as the bacteria will fight the yeast. You can consume pro-biotic products such as ice cream or curds. Another good source of these bacteria is butter-milk, and it is advisable to drink many glasses a day.

You can apply some Tea Tree Oil to the affected area. Eat healthy. Avoid spicy and oily foods, and eat a lot of leafy green vegetables and lentils. Wear comfortable, loose fitting, cotton clothes and undergarments, and always keep the area dry.

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