The Natural Beat

Yeast infections are often shrugged off by many general physicians as a casual problem. Many times people change doctors, only to be told that the problem is in their brains and that nothing is wrong with them. In fact, yeast infections reveal their presence in more than 100 ways and many physicians are not fully trained to administer effective yeast or Candida treatments.

Candida is a yeast-like fungus that is naturally present in all of us. It resides in the intestines and the mucous membranes but unrestricted growth can create havoc in the body.

Yeast infection treatment is easily available over the counter and does not require any prescription unless of course, the infection is severe and requires oral medication. Some time-tested home remedies can prove to be equally effective for Candida cure.

• Goldenseal is a natural herbal antibiotic and yoghurt contains friendly bacteria necessary for fighting yeast and Candida. Open two goldenseal capsules and mix with warm water and use as a douche. Follow the same procedure with fresh yoghurt to replace good bacteria lost during douching.
• An age old grandma’s home remedy is to mix a tablespoon of baking soda in eight ounces of lukewarm water. This is not advisable for those who have a weak stomach or those who cannot gulp in this bad tasting but effective remedy. This remedy also prevents Post Menstrual Syndrome, a common condition with women that occurs before and after menstrual periods.
• Pour half a cup of salt and half a cup of vinegar in a lukewarm bath about waist high. This solution provides instant relief from itching with about 20 minutes of soaking.
• Drink 8 ounces of cultured buttermilk, either non-fat or whole, every day till the symptoms vanish. This remedy works better if taken at night as it gives more time for the cultures to kill the infection.
• Dip a tampon liberally in tea tree oil or fresh yoghurt and insert at night. It works wonders! This remedy is however, not advisable if there are cracks in the vagina as this may irritate and cause further discomfort.
• Use baby oil that contains aloe vera and Vitamin E and rub it on the affected area. It is necessary to use it daily or the symptoms will return.
• Severe infections are normally treated with antibiotics. After treatment, drink plain yoghurt that contains the acidophilus as an active ingredient. Daily intake will prevent recurrence.
• Cranberry has a pH scale of what is naturally present in the vagina and healthy intestines. Drink one glass of pure cranberry juice (without additives), preferably with each meal.
• Freeze a tea bag (any kind) and apply to the affected part. Leave it till it thaws. It relieves external itching almost instantly.

Topical creams used for Candida treatments provide only temporary relief. Home remedies are natural, devoid of any side effects and time tested. Unless it is a severe case of yeast infection, home remedies and proper hygiene can prevent yeast infections and cure mild occurrences of Candida.

Reference:
http://www.otan.dni.us/webfarm/emailproject/yeast.htm