Herbs To Prevent Yeast Infections

Yeast infection, or candidiasis, is caused by a fungus called candida. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, about three-quarters of women will develop a vaginal yeast infection at some point during their lives. About 90 percent of people with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, or AIDS, contract yeast infections. Most patients will use prescription anti-fungal drugs for treatment; however, some herbalists and alternative medicine practitioners believe that herbs can treat yeast infections. Herbal therapies should not replace conventional medicine. Contact your physician before treating candidiasis with herbs.

Echinacea

Echinacea is an herb that was used by the Plains Indians to treat wounds, snake bites, colds, measles and arthritis. Modern herbalists believe that echinacea is an immune system stimulant that helps fight off infections, according to Michael Castleman, author of "The Healing Herbs." A study conducted by the University of Munich showed that this herb increased the production of T-lymphocites, which are infection-fighting cells, by 30 percent more than immune system-enhancing prescription drugs, notes Castleman. According to James A. Duke, author of "The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook," echinacea may stimulate the production of white blood cells that attack yeast organisms, including candida. Echinacea may produce occasional side effects such as diarrhea and stomach upset, but it is considered "generally safe" by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Check with your doctor before using echinacea to treat a yeast infection.

Garlic

Remains of garlic cloves have been found in cave dwellings dating back 10,000 years, making it one of the oldest herbal remedies, according to Castleman. This herb is well-known as an antibiotic--it was used in World War I to cleanse infected wounds of harmful bacteria and prevent dysentery. However, garlic also possesses anti-fungal properties, notes Duke. Taken internally, this herb may help cure vaginal candidiasis and thrush--alternative medical practitioners believe that garlic should be eaten raw for best results, although garlic supplements may also have antibacterial properties. Raw garlic and garlic supplements may impair the body's ability to produce blood clots and may trigger allergic reactions such as rashes. Consult your doctor before using garlic to as a remedy for candidiasis.

Goldenseal

Although Native Americans used goldenseal as a dye for clothing, this herb first gained popularity in alternative medicine in the early 1800s as an antiseptic, notes Castleman. It was also touted as an alternative stimulant to ginseng after the Civil War, when growing and transporting ginseng was cost prohibitive. The herb contains an antibiotic compound called berberine, which is thought to be effective for treating candidiasis, according to Duke. Because goldenseal may alter blood pressure, people with hypertension or a history of strokes should not use this herb, and consulting your physician before using is recommended.