The human body is home to an entire realm of microorganisms. Everywhere on your body are colonies of yeast, known as flora. While these colonies are essential for optimum health, should its growth go unbalanced, yeast infections take over. Yeast infections, also known as candidiasis, can occur on almost any location of your body; however, they’re typically found in moist mucus membranes, such as in your mouth or genitals. With over 20 different species of Candida, there are a host of different infections types that can afflict the human body.
If you’re interested in naturally treating a yeast infection, there are several yeast infection home remedies capable of eliminating an active infection and inhibiting the onset of future infections.
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ToggleTop 6 Yeast Infection Home Remedies
The following yeast infection home remedies were carefully chosen based upon their effectiveness. Although there are many other home remedies designed to reduce the severity of yeast infections, they are not always effective for every person. Of course, if your yeast infection worsens after self-treatment, you may need to visit a physician as you could be dealing with serious yeast overgrowth.
Remedy #1 | Pau D’Arco
Considered one of the most effective yeast infection home remedies due to its potent antifungal properties, this Amazonian plant has just recently come under investigation by the scientific community. Research has isolated three primary compounds: xyloidone, lapachol and a series of napthaquinones. However, when it comes to destroying yeast, the compound lapachol has been found to be extremely effective. There are several ways to control a yeast infection with Pau D’Arco:
Internal Yeast Infection – A yeast infection of the gut can be effectively treated by brewing 1 cup of fresh Pau D’Arco tea and drinking at least two cups per day. You can find tea-ready Pau D’Arco at most herbal shoppes as well as via online retailers.
External Yeast Infections – Yeast infections on the skin can be eliminated by topically applying brewed Pau D’Arco tea. Simply brew 1 cup of tea, and once it’s cooled to a comfortable temperature, dip a cotton ball in the tea and liberally apply directly on yeast infections.
Remedy #2 | Colloidal Silver
Colloidal silver has been used for centuries as a powerful medicinal compound. While there are many proposed uses, the topical application of colloidal silver is a powerful yeast infection home remedy. According to a 2011 study researchers found the silver nanoparticles found in colloidal silver feature powerful antifungal properties. The study found its use to be extremely effective at skin yeast infections. In fact, after 24 hours, the concentration of yeast was reduced by 90 per cent. Simply apply a high-quality colloidal silver product directly on yeast infection lesions up to two times per day. Continue until the infection has been banished.
Garlic yeast infection home remedy
Remedy #3 | Raw Garlic
Raw garlic contains several powerful healing compounds capable of banishing bacteria and viruses. However, its potential as a yeast infection home remedy is quite impressive. There have been many studies confirming the antifungal properties of garlic. In fact, this is considered one of the most effective yeast infection home remedies for both internal and external infections. When consumed internally, it has the potential to not only restore internal gut flora but also inhibit the overgrowth of yeast throughout your body. This is an excellent remedy for Invasive Candidiasis, which occurs when the bloodstream becomes infected with Candida. To utilize this remedy, simply chew and swallow up to three raw garlic cloves per day. While the flavour is harsh, its healing powers are best accessed with uncooked, fresh garlic.
For external yeast infections, mince fresh garlic and spread directly over the yeast infection. Cover with a bandage and allow it to soak into your skin for 2 hours. Rinse with warm water and repeat each day until the infection is under control.
Remedy #4 | Grapefruit Seed Extract
Grapefruit seed oil features such powerful antifungal properties, its effects are generally as powerful as a prescription antifungal cream. In fact, one study found grapefruit seed extract was just as effective – or more effective – than 18 synthetic fungicides. Moreover, since this is a relatively gentle treatment option, side effects are extremely rare, unlike prescription or over-the-counter medications. Immediately upon contact, the active compounds in grapefruit seed extract work to kill off yeast overgrowth while simultaneously inhibiting the formation of further growth. This yeast infection home remedy is excellent for both internal and external yeast infections.
Skin Yeast Infections – To treat external (skin) yeast infections, soak a cotton ball in grapefruit seed extract liquid concentrate and apply directly to yeast lesions. Repeat up to 2 times per day to kill off and restore natural flora balance.
Internal Yeast Infection – For internal yeast infections, place 10 drops of pure GSE concentrate in 1 cup of water and consume 3 times per day. Continue this daily dosage until the yeast infection has cleared.
Remedy #5 | Clove Oil
If you’re suffering from oral yeast infections (known as thrush) or intestinal yeast infections, various studies have found the active compounds within clove oil suppress the proliferation of Candida yeast. In fact, this natural oil is so effective at controlling yeast, it’s a common ingredient in fungal infection medications. It’s believed immediately upon contact, yeast cells are penetrated. A study published in the Journal of Medical Microbiology found clove oil has powerful antifungal activities capable of treating a variety of yeast infections. To utilize this remedy, simply place 30 drops of pure clove essential oil in 1 cup of warm water and drink up to three times per day. Due to the potency of this oil, it’s imperative to dilute with water before consuming.
Remedy #6 | Calendula Oil
Also referred to as pot marigold, this yellow-hued flower features not only a pleasant color but powerful antifungal properties. In fact, a study published in the Brazilian Journal of Microbiology found to be an effective antifungal agent against 23 clinical fungi types. To utilize this yeast infection home remedy, soak fresh calendula in castor oil for 1 to 2 weeks. Alternatively, you may purchase prepared calendula oil from the majority of herbal shops or via online retailers. Apply this remedy by soaking a cotton ball and rubbing into active yeast infections up to three times per day.