subject: Treating Yeast Infections With Hydrogen Peroxide [print this page] Most women use over-the-counter or prescription medications to treat their yeast infections. But there are many effective natural treatments, one of which is hydrogen peroxide...
Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) is a clear, slightly viscous liquid whose molecules are made up of 2 parts hydrogen and 2 parts oxygen. When applied to the area of the infection, it breaks down into water and oxygen. Now, the yeast fungus is anaerobic in nature, and so it cannot survive in high concentrations of oxygen. So, a hydrogen peroxide solution can help to kill-off the fungus and relieve the symptoms.
However, you really can't just apply a 100% solution of hydrogen peroxide as it will cause burning to the local area. What you need is a 3% solution of H2O2 which you can easily purchase from your local pharmacy; just ask for "3% hydrogen peroxide solution."
At home, add 1 teaspoon of the 3% solution to a cup of water and mix well. Then gently douche the affected area. Repeat this once per day until the symptoms abate. Just ensure that you stick to the concentration just given.
You don't need to be afraid of this home remedy because your own body contains low levels of hydrogen peroxide as a matter of course. It's just that in the area where you have the infection the fungus has been able to overgrow for a number of reasons discussed below.
A word of warning though: don't use this treatment if you are menstruating or are pregnant. In fact, it's always sensible for anyone to consult with their doctor before utilising a hydrogen peroxide treatment.
You also have to be aware that you won't necessarily 'cure' your infection using hydrogen peroxide. There is no reason at all why you won't be able to eliminate the symptoms -- unless the infection is particularly severe -- but you won't be able to address the root cause of your yeast infection.
You see, although the Candida fungus causes the symptoms, there are several underlying causes for triggering the actual fungal overgrowth. These are issues such as depleted beneficial bacteria, a lowered immune system, high blood sugar, hormonal and body pH imbalance, and some drug therapies.
So although you may well have conquered the current infection there is nothing to prevent its recurrence unless the actual root cause is also addressed. Unfortunately, this is beyond the scope of this article, but you can get more information on this below...
