Many people turn to these options as an alternative or complement toantifungal medications.
Consulting a healthcare provider ensures you choose the right approach for your symptoms.
Verywell / Jessica Olah
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Verywell / Jessica Olah
Probiotics
Probioticsare live microorganisms, including certain bacteria and yeasts, that support health.
Research suggests probiotics may help treat yeast infections by restoring thenatural balanceof bacteria in the vagina.
A 2020 study found that oralLactobacillusspp.
Overall, oral or vaginalLactobacillus acidophilusmay be beneficial, especially when used alongside antifungal treatment.
Yogurt contains Lactobacillus, which helps maintain vaginal balance and may prevent yeast from spreading.
Some research suggests that combining yogurt and honey enhances their antifungal effects.
Can Sitting in Hot Saltwater Cure Yeast Infection?
There is no evidence that sitting in hot saltwater can cure yeast infection.
You may find that sitting in a warm bath withepsom saltfor about 10 minutes can help relieve symptoms.
Garlic
Lab studies show thatgarlicstops Candida from growing and keeps it from attaching to skin tissues.
Some research suggests that garlic extract works well with antifungal medication, but scientists havent tested this in humans.
Fresh garlic extract appears to fight Candida better than garlic powder in lab tests.
Higher concentrations of garlic extract also seem to have a stronger antifungal effect.
you could eat garlic raw, take a garlic supplement, or add it to your cooking.
However, never insert garlic into the vagina, as it can cause irritation.
Because apple cider vinegar is highly acidic, it can irritate sensitive vaginal tissues.
Baking Soda
Baking sodamight help with vaginal yeast infections by stopping yeast from growing.
While this sounds promising, more research is needed.
Since baking soda can changevaginal pHand might cause irritation, check with a doctor before trying it.
The fungusCandidaforms protective layers called biofilms that make it harder for medicine to kill it.
Lab studies show that curcumin can break down these biofilms, making the fungus weaker and easier to treat.
A human study tested a curcumin-based vaginal cream against a standard clotrimazole cream in women with yeast infections.
Can Hydrogen Peroxide Fight Yeast Infection?
While many swear by this remedy, there is no scientific evidence or clinical research proving its effectiveness.
Oils
Several essential oils have antifungal properties and may help treat yeast infections naturally.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oilis a proven antifungal agent and is effective at fightingCandida albicans.
Talk with yourgynecologistif you want to incorporate tea tree oil into your treatment plan.
Tea tree oil can irritate the skin and vaginal walls.
Do not apply the essential oil directly on or in the vagina or consume it by mouth.
Instead, use suppositories, or mix it with a carrier oil and place it on a tampon.
Oregano Oil
Oregano oilis an essential oil known for its health benefits.
The essential oil was more effective at fighting yeast overgrowth than the prescription antifungal clotrimazole.
In the study, oregano oil was more damaging to the cell wall ofCandidayeast than the antifungal prescriptions tested.
Boric acid may be helpful if you experience chronic yeast infections and have been prescribed antifungals several times.
Aloe Vera
Aloe verahas shown antifungal effects againstCandida albicansin laboratory studies, indicating it could help fight yeast infections.
Its unclear if Aloe vera will work the same way in real-life situations or if it could cause irritation.
While its unlikely to cause harm, its best to consult a healthcare provider before using it.
Vitamins
Like any infection, a yeast infection clears up faster when yourimmune systemis strong.
Vitamins C and D are especially helpful, as research shows they can fight Candida infections.
Vitamin C
Vitamin Csupports the immune system and helps maintain the body’s natural defenses.
Vitamin E
Vitamin Emay help get rid of yeast infections by fighting the Candida fungus and reducing swelling.
It also has antioxidants that protect the body from damage sparked by the fungus.
What Else Helps?
If your healthcare provider confirms a yeast infection, they may recommend an over-the-counter antifungal treatment.
Along with using the right treatments, keeping the vaginal area dry is essential for resolving the infection.
What Is the Fastest Way to Get Rid of a Yeast Infection?
In some cases, your symptoms may be brought on by something else.
Some of these infections can have serious complications when left untreated.
If you are experiencing frequent yeast infections, see your gynecologist.
You may need a more long-term antifungal treatment to wipe out the infection and prevent future ones.
Summary
A vaginal yeast infection is a fungal infection due to an overgrowth ofCandida albicansyeast.
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