A yeast infection develops when yeast or fungi that normally exist on the skin are able to multiply. They most commonly develop in warm and moist areas of the body that allow yeast to thrive and grow, such as the vagina, mouth and diaper area. The most common type of yeast infection is a vaginal infection. Both prescription and over-the-counter drugs are available to treat yeast infections, but there are also some holistic treatments you can try at home.
Yogurt
Yogurt contains natural cultures of bacteria that can help treat a yeast infection. For a vaginal yeast infection, dip a tampon in plain yogurt and insert it normally. This can be done twice a day. For yeast infections on other parts of the body, coat the affected area with plain yogurt and let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes twice a day. Be sure not to use any flavored or sweetened yogurt.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a home remedy for many medical conditions, including yeast infections. To create a solution to treat a vaginal yeast infection, mix 1 tbsp. of apple cider vinegar, 1 clove of garlic and 2 cups of water. Let is sit for a few hours and then use the solution to douche.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is considered a very effective holistic treatment for vaginal yeast infections, and there are a few ways you can use it. First, you can apply a few drops of the oil to a clean tampon and insert it normally. You can also create a tea tree oil solution to use as a douche by mixing 1 tsp. of tea tree oil and 1 tsp. of rubbing alcohol. The solution will have a milky appearance. Store the mixture in a small dropper bottle, and mix 10 drops of it with a pint of water to make a douching solution. You can douche with it daily every day for a week to clear up an yeast infection. Do not use tea tree oil if you are pregnant.
Garlic
Garlic is another home remedy for a yeast infection and is easy to use. For vaginal yeast infections, insert a clove of garlic into the vagina every two to fours hours for two days. You can also eat fresh garlic cloves or take garlic pills to treat an infection.
Tags: yeast infection, yeast infections, vaginal yeast, solution douche, clove garlic, home remedy, infection vaginal