subject: Yeast Infections And Natural Remedies [print this page] A Yeast infection is not a particularly nice thing to have but most people will get one at some time in their lives. Deciding on how to treat it can be a headache in itself. The doctor will generally prescribe drugs and antifungal cream. Your local pharmacist will give you the same as everyone else uses because they have come back and said it works. And your friend at work will swear by a South American tree root remedy they bought from an agent who lives near them... There is nothing wrong with any of these methods because all of these people are advising what they have been told is best.
So why would anyone choose to use a natural remedy over all the options that are available. The main point is that most natural remedies are just that, natural. It's something that you will usually find at home or is widely available. Also with natural remedies there are usually minimal side effects and the overall idea is of a more holistic approach.
A yeast infection is normally caused when the body's natural defences are weakened and the yeast type bacteria, naturally present in the body, are allowed to grow beyond their normal limits. Externally they then can cause itching and soreness, internally they can cause bloating, tiredness, excess gas among other things. The infection can manifest just about anywhere on the body but tend to prefer warm, moist areas. For an external condition normally creams and oils would be used. For an internal condition, possibly tablets or antibiotic injections.
Oregano oil has been touted as a natural remedy for some time. However, it must be diluted heavily, usually with olive oil; otherwise it can burn the skin. It is still difficult to decide if it is classed as a herbal remedy or a home remedy.
Coconut oil has been scientifically proven to be effective against a yeast infection both externally and internally. This goes down to molecular level which is a little bit technical but certain chemicals in the coconut oil attack the nucleus of the yeast and cause it to explode. The oil can be used in cooking or applied externally. Coconut milk can also be used as a sweetener and is also recommended as a soothing agent.
Natural yogurt that contains probiotics is an excellent natural remedy. It can be used externally or internally without any side effects. The term probiotics is the key, 'pro' meaning with or for and biotics, or bacteria. Basically probiotics is good bacteria. These can also be bought from a pharmacy in capsule form and used directly on the infected area. If you use yogurt then it should be plain, no flavors or sugar, and unpasteurized.
The most overlooked natural treatment is the diet or what we eat. Yeast loves sugar and will feed direct from the bloodstream if necessary. Alcohol produces sugar as it is broken down. Fruit and fruit juices contain fructose which is a natural sugar. All yeast products, cakes and biscuits contain sugar the same as most processed foods, just read the label next time. Mold foods like cheese are processed with bacteria which don't necessarily feed the yeast but kill good bacteria. The same with fermented food like vinegar and soy sauce. Also if you use a diet missing out the foods mentioned it's a great way to lose weight.
There are many misconceptions regarding natural remedies. Listerine and vinegar will kill yeast bacteria, however if the area is sore it is going to sting and be very uncomfortable. Tee tree oil and boric acid are some others. Both of these can be extremely dangerous if not handled correctly.
The idea of a home remedy is something that is natural. If it can't be used internally or externally then it isn't natural. It should be able to be used by children or adults and not have any side effects. If you are in doubt about any suggested home remedy then you must seek professional advice.
