In a lifetime, an estimated three out of four women will experience the discomfort and drawbacks that accompany the dreaded yeast infection. With a multitude of factors that contribute to this common condition (including oral birth control, pregnancy, antibiotics, menopause, and even tight undergarments), it’s pretty hard to hide from the itching and burning of excess yeast that finds its way to the vaginal region.

What is a Yeast Infection?

The most common form of yeast infection attacks the vaginal region when an increased amount of yeast accumulates and causes an imbalance in the body’s normal levels of bacteria. Symptoms include:

Intense itching and burning sensations in the vagina and vulva
An offensive odor that resemble beer or bread [1]
Painful urination
Pain during sexual intercourse
White, yellow, or clear vaginal discharge
Discharge similar to cottage cheese

While the symptoms of yeast infection are pretty annoying, uncomfortable, and sometimes embarrassing to face, it is important to keep in mind that the condition is not a sexually transmitted infection (also known as an STD) [2].

Yeast Infection Home Remedies

One of the most common treatments for yeast infection is to embrace the power of over-the-counter medications, such as Monistat 7 and Gyne-Lotrimin. However, some people desire a quick solution to the irritating symptoms accompanying yeast infection and decide to turn towards home remedies for relief, including the following:

a) Cold Compress:

Apply a cold compress (like a washcloth) to the vaginal region to soothe the irritation of yeast infection.

b) Tea Tree Oil:

To reduce pain and inflammation, tea tree oil has been used to treat yeast infection. Soak a cotton ball in the oil and directly apply to the vagina.

c) Olive Oil:

Use olive oil as an oral yeast infection remedy by mixing three to four drops with the same amount of grapefruit juice and two cups of water. Drink the concoction for relief.

d) No Perfumes:

Keep pain and infection away by eliminating sanitary products that use deodorants, perfumes, and fragrances.

e) Vinegar:

Keep a yeast infection from reappearing by using a diluted solution of vinegar and water (for no more than once a week) to flush out the vagina. The mixture creates a more acidic environment in the vagina, which helps to ward off yeast. Simply mix two tablespoons of white vinegar with one quart of water. A standard douching bulb found at the local pharmacy will help administer this home remedy. Additionally, beware of commercial douches, which have a reputation for killing the “good kind” of bacteria found in the vagina.

f) Yogurt:

Apply plain, unsweetened yogurt to the opening of your vagina before going to bed in an attempt to promote a beneficial level of “good” bacteria. Make sure that the yogurt you choose contains live cultures. If you seem to be a victim of recurring yeast infections, try adding more yogurt to your diet. Studies have shown that women who eat yogurt every day suffer fewer attacks.

g) Beta-Carotene:

Consume foods that offer a high level of beta-carotene, such as sweet potatoes, spinach, broccoli, apricots, and carrots.

h) Cotton Clothing:

Since yeast infections thrive in moist, warm environments, it is recommended to wear clothing that keeps your vaginal region cool, dry, and comfortable. Opt for cotton underwear and loose-fitting garments.

i) Cornstarch:

Decrease the amount of moisture in the groin region by sprinkling a bit of cornstarch to promote absorption.

j) Apple Cider Vinegar Extract:

For quick relief from itchiness and burning sensations, mix apple cider vinegar extract with a small amount of water and garlic extract. Apply to the vagina using a cotton ball.

k) Buttermilk:

If you drink two to three glasses of buttermilk on a daily basis, it will help regulate bowel movements, cool off the body, regulate body temperature, and flush out toxic materials. In the end, inflammation in the vagina region will subside.

[1] https://www.msu.edu/~eisthen/yeast/symptom.html

[2] http://www.medicinenet.com/yeast_vaginitis/page2.htm#toce