Natural Treatments For Vaginal Thrush
This extremely uncomfortable condition affects women of all ages. It can be caused by poor hygiene but is more often a sign of a weak immune system and poor diet. Stress and antibiotic use can also contribute to the problem. For those who are concerned with over-all health, natural treatments for vaginal thrush can be as effective as over-the-counter or prescription medicines.
Holistic solutions to illnesses seek to address the cause of problems as well as the obvious symptoms. Medicine often suppresses symptoms without addressing the underlying condition that gives rise to them. In the case of yeast infections, symptoms include intense itching and burning as well as thick discharge. The cause, however, begins with an overgrowth of yeasts in the digestive tract, which occurs when beneficial bacteria which colonize the intestines are too few to keep things in balance.
Another thing that helps to control candidiasis – the formal name for a yeast infection – is wearing cotton underwear. This material is more absorbent than many man-made fabrics. Keeping the vaginal area dry and allowing as much air circulation as possible helps, so sleeping without underwear is recommended.
If you are prone to recurring yeast infections, make sure to eat whole foods rich in nutrition while avoiding refined carbohydrates as much as possible. Try to eliminate sugar from your diet, even the unrefined sugars in fruit. Wear white cotton underwear, which is absorbent and allows for air circulation, and do not wear underwear overnight.
When experiencing this problem, you can apply plain yogurt topically to soothe the itch and burn. To get beneficial bacteria into the vagina, dip a tampon in yogurt. A slightly acidic condition helps to keep yeasts in check, so white or apple cider vinegar is helpful when added to bathwater and used as a tampon dip. Baking soda is another home remedy; it makes the vagina too alkaline for yeast to thrive.
Herbals are known to be effective, especially garlic. It is good to add this herb to your diet, for immune system strengthening, and to use it as a vaginal suppository. A peeled clove can be inserted in the vagina, either as is or wrapped in gauze with a string left dangling for easy removal.
There are many anti-fungal herbs, such as pau d’arco and calendula. Tea made from these plants are helpful when used topically or drunk to combat internal yeast overgrowth. Homeopathy is another branch of medicine that offers safe, non-toxic, natural treatments for vaginal thrush. Information on single and combination remedies can be obtained online or at your local natural food store.
You will find complete details about important things to keep in mind when choosing a natural treatment for thrush and information about an all natural skin care range, now.