Vaginal Inflammation
Natural Vaginal Yeast Infection Treatment

• Yeast Infections: Vaginal yeast infections are caused by the fungus Candida albicans. An estimated three out of four women will have a yeast infection in their lifetimes. Vaginal yeast infections cause itching, and there may be a white, thick cottage cheese-like discharge.
• Bacterial Vaginosis (BV): BV is caused by an overgrowth of one of several bacteria normally present in the vagina, upsetting the natural balance of vaginal bacteria. The symptoms of BV can include a grayish-white vaginal discharge and a foul-smelling vaginal odor.
• Trichomoniasis: This type of vaginal inflammation is caused by a one-celled microorganism called Trichomonas vaginalis, and is commonly transmitted by sexual intercourse. This infection can cause a foul-smelling yellowish-green discharge and itching.

Symptoms of Vaginal Inflammation

• Vaginal itching, burning, or irritation
• A white, cottage cheese-like discharge
• Pain during intercourse
• Painful urination

Causes of Vaginal Inflammation

• Medications, such as antibiotics and corticosteroids
• Diabetes
• Hormonal changes, such as those associated with pregnancy, birth control pills or menopause
• High sugar intake
• Wearing panty hose, tight clothing, or noncotton underwear
• A suppressed immune system
• Sexually transmitted diseases
• Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection

Natural Vaginal Yeast Infection Treatment - Herbs and Essential Oils

• Oregano Oil: Oregano oil can prevent Candida overgrowth. Get the enteric-coated capsules of the oil and take two capsules two times a day with meals with plenty of water to prevent digestive upset.
• Garlic: Garlic is anti-fungal and boosts immunity. You can use several drops of garlic oil in a douche. You may also consider taking the enteric-coated capsules of garlic together with Oregano oil for added strength. Recommended dosage is one capsule twice a day (or the equivalent of 4000 to 5000 mcg of allicin).
• Echinacea: Echinacea strengthens the immune system and has antifungal properties. It works by stimulating the white blood cells to destroy the yeast organisms, a process known as phagocytosis. Recommended dosage is about 400 mg two to three times daily.
  You can also make a douche using equal parts of echinacea, oregano leaf, and goldenseal root. Steep 1 heaping tablespoon of herbal mixture in 1 pint of water. Let cool and douche daily for 10 to 14 days.
• Pau d'arco: The bark of this herb has strong antifungal properties. It is best used as a tea. Drink up to 3 to 6 cups per day.
• Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree oil is a natural antiseptic and a very potent remedy for vaginal yeast infections. You can make a douche using two drops each of tea tree, lavender, and rosemary essential oils. Add the oils to two tablespoons of apple vinegar (should be entirely natural without additives or preservatives). Mix together well and add to 2 and a half cups of warm water. Use this solution in a douche every day for three days.

Natural Vaginal Yeast Infection Treatment - Nutritional Supplements

• Probiotics: Probiotics provide the friendly bacteria that can help to restore normal balance of bacteria in the bowel and mucous membranes. Taking probiotics at the same time that you take antibiotics may help to prevent a buildup of Candida. Take a product that contains 4 billion active organisms (e.g. Lactobacillus acidophilus, bifidobacterium) two times a day, about 30 minutes after a meal.
• Essential Fatty Acids: EFAs can help to reduce inflammation. A mix of omega-6 (e.g. evening primrose) and omega-3 (e.g. fish oil) is best. You can take 1 tablespoon or 1000 - 1500 mg twice a day.
• Vitamin C: This antioxidant vitamin can boost the immune system and reduce inflammation. Take 500 to 1000 mg per day.
• Vitamin E: Vitamin E reduces inflammation and keeps the immune system strong. Recommended dosage is 200 to 400 IU a day.
• Selenium: Selenium is also important to maintain a strong immune system. It can also reduce inflammation. Recommended dosage is 200 mcg a day.

Natural Vaginal Yeast Infection Treatment - Homeopathy

• Borax: This remedy is for vaginal inflammation that often appears midway between the menstrual periods. There are burning pains with egg-white colored discharge.
• Calcarea carbonica: This remedy is for intense itching with thick white or yellowish discharge that is worse before and/or after the menstrual period.
• Kreosotum: This remedy is the most common remedy for acute vaginal yeast infections. There is great itching and a burning discharge which is worse before menstruations or during pregnancy.
• Sepia: This remedy is for burning pains with yellow discharge or milky white discharge that has an offensive smell. The woman who needs this remedy feels pressure in the vaginal area, and she feels depressed and irritable.