A variety of microscopic organisms including the fungus Candida albicans naturally exists inside the vagina; however, the normal balance occasionally teeters of scale and the fungus rapidly multiplies. The condition, labeled Candida vaginitis, is the most common reason for yeast infections. Yeast infections are often related to pregnancy, antibiotic use, diabetes and vaginal douching. Yeast infections range from mild to severe, reports MayoClinic.com. Symptoms include itching, irritation as well as white odorless discharge with a cottage cheese consistency. A variety of natural products used at home may prevent or treat vaginal yeast infections.
Yogurt Treatment
Some types of yogurt contain lactobaccilus acidophilus, which is related to the "good" bacteria in the vagina. According to MotherNature.com, eating yogurt may cause the bacteria to repopulate and restore balance in the vagina. The website suggests women eat 8 oz. of yogurt containing lactobaccilus acidophilus daily to fight vaginal yeast infections. Some remedies suggest not only eating yogurt, but also applying it to the vaginal area, reports MayoClinic.com. The yogurt is applied around the vagina or placed on the tip of the vagina and inserted.
Supplements
Lactobaccilus acidophilus also comes in tablet form. The National Institutes of Health recommends taking the supplement when starting antibiotic therapy. Continue taking the capsules for two weeks to prevent a yeast infection from happening. Garlic is a common used home remedy to treat yeast infections. If a person cannot tolerate chewing on a clove of garlic, a garlic supplement is widely available. According to Holisticonline.com, a person should take 400 to 500mg once to twice a day to fight yeast infections. The website states garlic naturally inhibits Candida albicans growth, and also decreases yeast infection occurrences.
Vinegar Douche
Woman fighting yeast infection should consider a homemade vinegar douche, suggests MotherNature.com. The douche is created by mixing together 2 tbsp. of white vinegar and one quart of water. Women should insert the solution into the vaginal opening using a douche bulb, commonly sold at pharmacies.
Tea Tree Oil
Tee tree oil contains antifungal, bacterial and viral properties. The tree Melaleuca alternifolia, only found in Australia, produces the oil, though tea tree oil is available for purchase at most drug stores. GrannyMed.com suggests coating a tampon with a water-lubricant and adding a few drops of tea tree oil to the tip. The tampon should be inserted into the vagina. Alternatively, adding a few drops of tea oil into a sitz bath also treats vaginal yeast infections, reports GrannyMed.com. A person should not use tea tree oil if pregnant or breastfeeding, and never orally.
