Okay, ladies, before we get to anything, let’s set one thing clear yeast infections are a common occurrence. We know they can also be an annoyance, and even worse, embarrassing for most women but the good news is, vaginal infection is curable. Although serious infections require you a trip to the gynaecologist’s office and a prescription but detected early you can opt for several effective home remedies for vaginal yeast infections. 

Below, Beauty Insider has gathered 15 best home remedies for yeast infection along with other key details you need to know about the vaginal infection. Now again, it is a pretty normal get these guys so the most important thing is to learn how to identify a yeast infection and try to treat it at home and educate yourself on how to prevent them from recurring.


Firstly, What is Vaginal Yeast Infection?

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Vaginal yeast infection is also known as vaginal candidiasis. It is a common occurrence caused by an overgrowth of a fungus that naturally lives in your vagina, called Candida albicans. 

Common vaginal yeast infection symptoms include:

  • Itching
  • Burning
  • Swelling
  • Redness
  • Cottage-cheese-like discharge
  • Pain while peeing
  • Painful sex

This overgrowth with proper care and medication can trigger irritation, inflammation, itching, and painful discharge. Most women experience a yeast infection sometime during their lifetime.


What Causes Vaginal Yeast Infection In The First Place?

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The cause of yeast infections varies depending on the individual and there are a few possible reasons someone may deal with yeast infections. Below are some of the most commons reasons why you get vaginal yeast infections.

1. Unhygienic Sexual Activities

While yeast infections are not sexually transmitted, but it is possible for partners to pass the bacteria to each other. To prevent this, use condoms and practise good hygiene before after sexual intercourse.

2. Overconsumption of Antibiotics

This is another culprit for causing yeast infections. Antibiotics can destroy vaginal bacteria and thereby disrupt the balance of power among the vaginal microorganisms. 

3. Imbalance Hormones

Your vaginal pH value can also be disrupted by hormones. So, if you take too much of hormonal contraceptives, your chances of getting yeast infections are higher. You are also more likely to get a yeast infection during pregnancy, or just prior to menstruation. 

4. Weak Immune System

Those with certain diseases impaired immune system like diabetes, AIDS, cancer and so on are more likely to get yeast infections. In fact, anything that weakens your immune system like stress, lack of sleep, consumption of alcohol, and even refined sugar can lead to an overgrowth of yeast.


Now, What Are The Home Remedies for Vaginal Yeast Infection?

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There are many natural home remedies to treat vaginal yeast infections. Some of these ingredients in the list are most probably already in your home. Do take note that their effectiveness varies depending on the individual, and evidence for their success is mostly anecdotal but it is worth the try. However, if your condition is recurring then it best you talk to your doctor about other safe ways to try to treat a yeast infection or perhaps prevent reoccurrence.

1. Plain Greek Yoghurt

One of the most popular home remedies for vaginal yeast infection is yoghurt. This is because yoghurt is a probiotic that contains live bacteria. These bacteria are essential to creating a healthy environment in your vagina. They can also help treat an overgrowth caused by an imbalance. The most important thing here is to make sure that the yoghurt doesn’t contain added sugar as sugar can fuel the growth of the Candida fungus.

2. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil possesses a number of health benefits including effectively treating yeast infections. Thanks to its antifungal properties, coconut oil can keep these bad boys at bay. To enjoy the maximum benefit of treating a vaginal yeast infection using coconut oil be sure to use pure, organic coconut oil. Take a few drops and apply the oil directly to the affected area. You can do this every day till you find relief.

3. Apple Cider Vinegar

One of the popular home remedies for yeast infection is an apple cider vinegar. Just add a half cup of apple cider vinegar to a lukewarm bathtub and soak yourself in the bath. The acidic component of the vinegar can eliminate any harmful microorganisms, including yeast. Remember, vinegar should be diluted in water before touching the skin. You can also try incorporating apple cider vinegar to your diet.

4. Cranberry Juice

Surprising but yes cranberry juice is effective in treating urinary tract infections by preventing the formation of the fungus that causes yeast infections. Cranberry juice is also very high in vitamin C, which can also help prevent the formation of the infection in the first place. Include a glass of cranberry juice to your diet every day and watch your condition to improve in no time.

5. Garlic

Garlic is a traditional medication for yeast infection that is well-known for its antifungal properties. The traditional approaches to treat yeast infection using garlic is to insert the garlic clove directly into the vagina (which we don’t recommend you to try), a less invasive approach is to simply add more fresh garlic to your foods. Garlic is also good for treating bloating and indigestion so no harm in adding a pinch more of it to your meals.

6.  Boric Acid

Thanks to boric acid’s antiseptic properties it can effectively treat yeast infections. However, boric acid is a very potent powerful antiseptic so make sure to use a very little amount. Boric acid is toxic in large amounts. It can lead to kidney damage, acute failure of the circulatory system, or death if you absorb enough of it. If you have sensitive skin or are pregnant please avoid boric acid.

7. Kimchi

You know as the saying goes you are what you eat. That is so true because there’s a link between your vaginal microbiome and what you eat. If you practice a diet that supports a healthy gut you are supporting the health of your vagina. You can cut down on foods that feed yeast growth, like sugar, alcohol, mushrooms and starches while filling up on foods that nourish your gut bacteria like kimchi. 

8. Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is another effective natural home remedy for vaginal yeast infection. Thanks to its anti-fungal properties, it can keep yeast at bay. However, you may want to be cautious before using it on your lady-parts. Though, it can be helpful in prevention; however, it can also be quite harsh on the vaginal tissue. If you have sensitive skin or your vaginal wall is already inflamed avoid tea tree oil.

9.  Vitamin C

One of the main reason for the vaginal infection is a weak immune system. Vitamin C can boost the body’s immunity. So by incorporating foods that are rich in Vitamin C the body is able to fight off a yeast infection better. Add more fruits and vegetables like oranges, kiwis, papaya, broccoli, brussels sprouts, spinach and cauliflower.

10. Turmeric

Last but not least in our natural home remedies for vaginal yeast infection is turmeric. Since turmeric has spermicidal and microbicidal properties. Plus, turmeric is also a natural immune booster so it can block the growth of all the bacteria and yeast strains. You can apply a bit of turmeric powder with water and apply on the infected area or add it to water or milk as it can decrease vaginal infections.


How To Prevent Yeast Infection From Occurring Again?

Now that you know the remedies for vaginal yeast infection the next step of the process is to stop the issues from happening again. Below are a number of ways to prevent a yeast infection. Follow these tips to help prevent future yeast infections.

1.Avoid consuming unnecessary antibiotic

Antibiotics can kill off the healthy bacteria in the vagina, causing an overgrowth of yeast, thus leading to a yeast infection.

2. Wear comfortable cotton underwear

Tight underwaters aren’t as breathable something that is more loose and comfortable.

3. Don’t wear wet underwear or pants

These clothes can create a humid, damp area, which is the ideal environment for candida overgrowth. That is why it is important to change out of damp or sweaty clothes, like workout clothes or swimwear, quickly.

4. Avoid douching

Never ever spray a large amount of plain or scented water into your vagina. It can create a damp moist area for the bacterias to grow. 

5. Avoid sugary and processed foods

Yeast grows from sugar, so this can cause a surplus of yeast growth.