Bacterial vaginosis is a vaginal infection caused by an imbalance of bacteria. Symptoms may include a thin, grayish-white vaginal discharge, a strong fishy odor and pain during sexual intercourse. Bacterial vaginosis is a common female infection that may clear up on its own. While doctors typically treat bacterial vaginosis with antibiotics, herbal treatments are also a possible cure. They are advisable when antibiotics fail, when there are contraindications for antibiotics or when a woman simply prefers a more natural treatment.
Garlic
Having strong antibacterial and antifungal properties, garlic can remedy the symptoms of both bacterial vaginosis and yeast infection. As an herbal supplement, garlic is sold in capsules called kyolic. While taking it orally may help treat bacterial vaginosis, the best way is by suppositing the garlic in the vagina. If using kyolic for this purpose, make sure that the kyolic is pure garlic. Some kyolics have other things added, which won't work for this specific purpose. Insert two or three kyolic capsules two or three times a day.
Pao d'arco
Also called lapacho or taheebo, this herbal supplement is the bark of a tree found in South America. Health food stores may carry it loose or in tea bags. To prepare, steep a bag or tea strainer of pao d'arco in a covered cup for about 15 to 20 minutes. Drink two or three times a day while treating bacterial vaginosis. This remedy is also good for yeast infections and for fending off colds and flu.
Foods
Certain foods, such as yogurt and keffir, contain ingredients that can help remedy bacterial vaginosis, according to Dr. Sarah Cimperman. Eating these foods in unpasteurized form or taking them in capsules is a good way to supplement bacterial vaginosis treatment. Probiotics alone usually do not cure this infection, but they do help restore the vagina's bacterial balance when used along with or after other treatments.
Echinacea
Similar to pao d'arco, echinacea is often sold as a tea. Best known for its ability to stave off colds, echinacea is also helpful for any bacterial infection. As a medicinal tea, it is brewed by steeping in hot water for 15 to 20 minutes. Echinacea is also available in capsules. Three or four cups of tea or several capsules by mouth a day provides a good supplement to bacterial vaginosis treatments.
