How To Get Rid of a Yeast infection

Did you know women are more prone to genital yeast infection than men? Yeast infection is a type of fungal infection that targets the genital area causing pain, itching and discharge. Know how you can get rid of a yeast infection at home.

1.  Boric acid

Boric acid, Credits: pixabay

Studies have shown that boric acid alone can improve the symptoms of vaginal yeast infection. Research indicates that boric acid interferes with the lifecycle of fungi like C. albicans and C. glabrata. Thus, boric acid can help prevent the vicious growth of fungi and infection.

2.  Over the Counter Medications or Vaginal Itching Cream

Vaginal itching creams, Credits: pixabay

There are numerous anti-fungal creams available that can help you get rid of a yeast infection within a few days. Some good examples of these ointments include miconazole and terconazole. Make sure not to use the ointment for vaginal itching when you are pregnant.

3.  Tea-tree oil

Tea tree oil, Credits: pixabay

The active components of tea tree oil have shown potent cytotoxic effects on the fungal cells. It has been reported that tea tree oil contains various chemicals that diffuse into the fungal cell wall and destabilize cell membranes resulting in osmotic shock.

4.  Coconut oil

Coconut oil for fungal infection, Credits: pixabay

Lauric acid and caprylic acid are the two most important constituents of coconut oil which have shown the antifungal property. Research studies have shown that using coconut oil for vaginal yeast infection can help get rid of it. The medium-chain fatty acids of coconut oil actively reduce fungal colonisation. This action is carried out by weakening the fungal cell-membrane and disintegrating it.

5.  Garlic

Garlic, Credits: pixabay

Garlic has numerous properties which include anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, anti-cancer, immunomodulatory and antiparasitic effects. The anti-fungal effects of garlic are attributed to the allicin compound, which exerts oxidative metabolism on the fungal cells and prevents further fungal infection. It makes one of the perfect home remedies for itching in private parts of the female.

6.  Oil of oregano

Essential oregano oil for treating vaginal yeast infection, Credits: pixabay

High levels of carvacrol and thymol present in oregano oil may help fight fungal infections with ease. Carvacrol is a potent anti-oxidant compound whereas thymol contains anti-fungal properties. Both these properties inhibit the growth of fungus in the genital area and provide relief from its symptoms.

7.  Probiotics

Probiotics, Credits: pixabay

Probiotics are friendly bacteria that help maintain the good health of our intestine while also boosting our immune system.  Consuming probiotics enhances the epithelial barrier and maintains epithelial integrity of the small intestine. The intestinal barrier consists of the mucous layer, antimicrobial peptides, and secretory IgA which function as an antifungal to keep Candida bacteria in check while boosting your immune system.

8.  Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar for yeast infection, Credits: pixabay

Research studies have shown that using apple cider vinegar as a bath solution can help you get rid of fungal infections. This property of apple cider vinegar is due to its acidic nature which is unfavourable for the growth of fungi and bacteria.

9.  Good Hygiene

Washing hands is a good hygiene practice, Credits: pixabay

“Prevention is better than cure”. So, if you want to keep yourself away from the fungal and bacterial infection, try following good hygiene practices. You can prevent having recurrent vaginal candidiasis by keeping your genital area clean and dry. Do not use soap and water and wash only with warm water. It’s essential to follow menstrual hygiene as well to keep good menstrual health.

All the treatments as mentioned earlier can also be used as a male yeast infection home remedy

In order to prevent yourself from catching yeast infections, try wearing breathable cotton wear, keep things loose, manage your diabetes and use anti-biotics only when it’s dire necessary.