A yeast infection is a common form of fungal infection normally associated with the vulva and tissues at the opening of the vagina. Vaginal yeast infections are inflammations also known as vaginitis and vaginal candidiasis and affect millions of women each year. Yeast infections in women are so common that an estimated 75 percent of women will develop at least one yeast infection in their lifetime. Many women experience multiple cases of yeast infections. 1,2,4
Vaginal yeast infections are usually attributed to the fungal yeast germ Candida albicans that naturally
All forms of yeast are fungal and different from plants where they don’t require sunlight and chlorophyll to grow. Fungi like Candida albicans and a few other forms of infectious yeast create their own food which is how they multiply and spread within the body. 4
What Causes Yeast Infection
Yeast infection causes are entirely related to fungi growths that naturally occur but aren’t kept in balance by bacteria that are also present in the body. A vagina normally contains a balanced mix of yeast like candida and “good” bacteria such as Lactobacillus that prevents overgrowth of yeast. This results in a yeast infection in women. 1
Yeast infection causes and yeast overgrowth can be due to the following:
Yeast infection causes are not attributed to sexually transmitted diseases. Rather, yeast infections in women are normal vaginal conditions that go out of control. Women who are not sexually active can easily get yeast infections, however, yeast infection in women can be spread by sexual contact, particularly oral to genital acts. 1,2
Yeast Infection Symptoms
The most prominent of yeast infection symptoms are an intense itchiness along with a burning in the vaginal area. 1,2,4
Other common yeast infection symptoms are:
Numerous yeast infections symptoms may indicate greater health problems. A woman having more than several yeast infections per year should seek medical advice. Most often yeast infections will disappear with proper treatment and a return to a healthy vaginal fungi-bacteria balance. 3
Natural Remedies and Herbs for Yeast Infection
The vast majority of cases of yeast infection symptoms are easily cured by natural treatment. Some of the most effective yeast infection home remedies are:
References
Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) is the most effective natural product for Yeast Infection CuresDecoded worldwide community recommends
Apple cider vinegar has naturally anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory health benefits that can help fight off a yeast infection. Dilute 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar into 1/4 cup of water and drink twice daily on an empty stomach.
Tea tree oil has natural anti-fungal health benefits that can help to fight off a yeast infection. Use tea tree oil directly on the affected vaginal area as a topical treatment. Repeat twice daily until infection subsides.
Garlic has natural anti-bacterial and anti-fungal health benefits that can treat yeast infections by it using topically. Take one raw clove of garlic and wrap it in gauze material securing it tightly at either end. Inset the garlic clove into the vagina and repeat with fresh garlic cloves multiple times daily.
Coconut oil has natural anti-fungal health benefits which can help to kill a yeast infection. Apply coconut oil externally to affected areas three times daily until infection is gone.
Yogurt contains friendly bacteria called Lactobacillus acidophilus that help to control the levels of yeast in the body. Eat yogurt multiple times daily until yeast infection improves.