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Top 5 Natural Remedies for Yeast Infection

We all have yeasts, the micro-organisms, present in our bodies but in smaller amounts.
Sometimes, due to certain medical conditions and even due to certain medicines like
antibiotics, the yeast in our body grow to such a level that it leads to infection, mostly in
warm and moist body areas. This is known as Yeast Infection whose medical name is
Candidiasis. By now you know that it results from the overgrowth of a type of yeast. This
yeast is known as Candida (Candida albicans.) So, our mouths, throat, skin under arms,
skin folds like those under breasts or inside elbow or knee area and more commonly
genital areas can easily get yeast infection. They all are, however, differentiated with
individual names. For example, it is called Thrush when we get it in mouth or throat.
When it affects genital area, it is called Yeast Infection. Babies get Diaper Rash on their
bottoms, which is nothing but this yeast infection. And when this infection affects our
bloodstream, it is called Invasive Candidiasis or Candidemia. Because we are talking
about yeast infection, well here concentrate on the home remedies for this infection
which is caused in genital areas.

Vaginal and Penile Yeast Infection

Genital yeast infection is more common in women. Men too suffer from penile yeast
infection but not as often as women do. When there is extreme itching in the vaginal
area accompanied with soreness and redness there, a woman should get alerted as she

might have caught vaginal yeast infection. If so, she might also experience white
clumpy vaginal discharge along with pain during intercourse and urination.
As far as men are concerned, yeast infection is more likely in those who are not
circumcised. They may have red rashes on their penis under the foreskin along with
itching or burning sensation on the tip of the penis. Whether men or women, it is
essential to cure yeast infection either through home remedies or through medicines
because when one gets it, he or she may pass it on to his or her sexual partner.

Home Remedies for Vaginal Yeast Infection

When the level of acid responsible for keeping yeast in check, decreases, you might get
a vaginal yeast infection. There are certain conditions when this level of acid goes down
more often like pregnancy, menstruation, diabetes and also when you are regularly
taking oral contraceptive pills. Even douching or irritation due to inadequate vaginal
lubrication may lead to yeast infection. Apart from maintaining basic hygiene and
keeping your genital area clean and dry, you may use the below home remedies for
yeast infection to get relief from pain, itching and also to cure your infection.

1. Yogurt Remedy for Yeast Infection

Yogurt, not the sweetened one but plain yogurt with active cultures, can not only soothe
your itching and burning but can also cure your infection. The friendly bacteria in yogurt
inhibit the growth of yeast.
Yogurt has Lactobacillus acidophilus which promotes colonization of friendly bacteria in
the rectum and vagina along with your whole internal system.

( Photo Courtesy: Flickr By Kris Miller )

Do this:
1.

Eat plain yogurt daily.

2.

You can also apply yogurt locally in and around your vagina.
1. Get a cotton ball
2. Soak this in yogurt.
3. Now apply this yogurt all over your infected area.
4. Leave for 20-30 minutes
5. Wash off with water. Dont forget to pat dry.

You may also drink a glass of buttermilk twice a day if you do not like to have yogurt,
Buttermilk has the same effect as yogurt has on your yeast infection.

2. Coconut Oil Remedy for Yeast Infection

Many studies worldwide have established that the medium chain fatty acids in coconut
oil can, in fact, kill candida yeast. William Crook, M.D. Who has written The Yeast
Connection says that many physicians have used caprylic acid with success for yeast
infections. This acid is especially beneficial for the patients who report adverse reactions
to antifungal drugs. This caprylic acid, along with two more medium chain fatty acids, is
found in coconut oil and is capable of killing Candida albicans. Thus, you can take

advantage of the natural antibacterial and antifungal properties of coconut oil to treat
your vaginal infection.

( Photo Courtesy: vegan-baking )

Do this:

Take a cotton ball and soak it in coconut oil.

If its winter time, you may need to heat the oil a little as coconut oil becomes
solid in low temperatures. However, the oil melts without trouble when you take it in
your hands, of course, due to your body heat. (so, you may well apply the oil with
your clean fingers too).

Wipe gentle the infected area with the cotton soaked in coconut oil.

Do this twice or thrice a day.

If you feel sticky, wipe the oil dry with a soft cloth after about 20-30 minutes.

3. Garlic Remedy for Yeast Infection

Garlic, one of the super foods of our times, can also come to your rescue when it comes
to killing the yeasts causing infection. How does garlic help in yeast infection? Well,
there are two components of garlic that give it anti-fungal and antimicrobial propertiesAllicin and Ajoene. A whole clove of garlic, however, do not contain allicin. Allicin is
created only when one of the other components of garlic, alliin, gets combined with the

enzyme alliinase, also present in garlic. And how does this happen? Simply by crushing
the garlic clove.
A word of caution: Garlic, however, may affect with the working of certain medication
that you are taking. Also, using garlic along with oral contraceptive may lower the
effectiveness of these birth control pills. As per the U.S. National Library of Medicine,
some birth control pills have the hormone estrogen, which a womans body naturally
breaks down. Taking garlic may increase the rate at which the hormone estrogen breaks
down. Many people also advise against taking garlic as a remedy for yeast infection
because it can burn the mucous membrane of vagina leaving sores that are tough to
heal properly. If your skin is sensitive and you can cure your infection with other
remedies, its better not to use garlic in vagina even if many women have experienced
positive results. However, you can use garlic paste for other non vaginal yeast infection.

4. Grapefruit Seed Extract for Yeast Infection

Many natural health practitioners recommend grapefruit seed extract to cure yeast
infection including that in vagina. It has natural antibiotic and antifungal properties that
kills the growing yeast along with a wide variety of other pathogens. However, it has to
be accompanied with a cleansing diet a diet which is low in sugar, starches, fermented
foods, coffee, cigarettes, alcohol and high in fiber, low starch vegetables, proteins,
complex carbohydrates and fruits. If you are ready, you can make a grapefruit seed
extract rinse to cure vaginal infection.

( Photo Courtesy: Flickr By Jasleen Kaur )

Do this:

Add 5-10 drops of grapefruit seed extract to 2 cups of clean water.

Shake this water well so that the extract gets totally dissolved in it. You may
use a closed jar for the purpose.

Wash your infected vaginal area with this water. You may also soak a cotton ball
in the water and apply it on the infected area.

Do it everyday for three days.

A word of caution: If you feel any kind of irritation after using this mixture, you should
discontinue its use. Also if you are pregnant or menstruating, avoid using this. Ask your
physician before using any home remedy.

5. Essential Oils for Yeast Infection Remedy

There are many essential oils that have strong anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, and anti-viral
properties. For example, cinnamon oil in which yeast cannot survive. Tea tree oil, grape
seed oil, coconut oil, all of them have such properties that can cure your infection. Here
is a recipe to make a concoction using such essential oils along with a carrier oil so that
you can get immediate relief from your infection.
Get this:

Grapeseed oil (carrier oil)- 2 tbsp

Tea tree oil- 2-3 drops

Cinnamon oil- 2-3 drops

Oregano oil- 2-3 drops

Peppermint oil- 2-3 drops

Lemon oil- 2-3 drops

Do this:

Mix all the oils.

Store in a bottle.

Using a dropper or soaked cotton ball, apply this oil on the infected area.

Let it sit there for few minutes.

Wipe off with clean soft cloth.

Do this twice a day.

Natural Remedies for Penile Yeast Infection

Male yeast infection, in its basic form, is not different from vaginal infection as it is also
a result of uncontrolled growth of yeast. So, men may also apply the following on the
infected area to get rid of yeast infection.
1.

Yogurt- Apply it or eat it daily.

2.
3.

Coconut oil- Apply coconut oil on affected area.

Tea tree oil- mix two drops of tea tree oil with 1 tsp of almond oil or olive oil and
apply on affected area.

4.

Cranberry juice- Have cranberry juice twice a day to restore good acidophilus
bacteria level.

5.

Apple cider vinegar- Dont apply it directly on your genitals. Add a half cup to 1
cup of ACV in your bath tub and sit in it for few minutes. You may also dilute tsp of

ACV in 2 cups of water and wash the affected area.

6.
Oregano Oil- Carvacrol, the active ingredient of this oil is beneficial in treating
infection but always dilute it before applying. Mix two drops of oregano oil with a tbsp
of olive oil, coconut oil or water and then apply to the affected area.
7.

Harad herb- Siddha medicine talks about harad (terminalia chebula) remedy for
male candidiasis problem.
1. Mix 1 tsp of dried harad powder into a glass of water.
2. Drink it before going to bed at night.
3. Continue this for at least 3 days to get rid of itching and irritation due to yeast
infection.
4. It is, however, a mild laxative so do not have it in greater amounts.
5. Dont give it to kids.

Male Yeast Infection: Symptoms, Causes and

Treatments
Contrary to the belief that only females suffer from yeast infections, men can also contact yeast infections, known as
male yeast infection. They can be extremely painful and discomforting. Knowing the symptoms and causes can help
them detect and cure the infection before it becomes worse.

Many men are unaware of having a yeast infection as it progress in males in asymptotic form. Most men
contract the infection from their partners, as women are more susceptible to develop yeast infections. In
women, the condition is easily identifiable as a host of symptoms manifest within a brief period of
contacting the infection. However, most men do not know they have it till they are either informed by their
partners or through a medical examination. Male yeast infection is contracted through unprotected sex.
This is the only method through which the infection can enter the body. Such infections can cause
extreme discomfort and irritation. Therefore, it is important to realize that men too are prone to contacting
yeast infections, contrary to the myth that only women suffer from this disease. Being knowledgeable
about its symptoms and the available treatment options can help people be rid of this condition.

Symptoms of Male Yeast Infection

Unlike a vaginal yeast infection, a penile yeast infection may not always have symptoms, especially
during its progression stages. However, when symptoms start manifesting, they can be extremely
discomforting. Some common symptoms of a penile yeast infection are,

Burning sensation when passing urine.

Sores on the foreskin of the genital organ.

Irritation and itchiness.

White discharge, similar to a vaginal infection.

Discomfort during sexual intercourse.

Redness and inflammation on top of the penis.

Indigestion.

Increased desire for sweets.

Men with yeast infections may also experience mood swings and temporary lapse in memory.
Furthermore, penile yeast infections can also cause problems with the prostate. Therefore any signs of
penile yeast infections should be checked out medically as soon as possible.

Causes of Male Yeast Infections

It is common for a healthy human body to have yeast present in their body. These organisms are part and
parcel of the dermal structure and various bacteria in the body keeps these organisms under control.
However, any changes to the immune system can result in an overgrowth of yeast. For example, HIV or
AIDS patients or patients undergoing chemotherapy may be more likely to develop a yeast infection
because of their weakened immune systems. There are several other factors that cause the growth of
yeast in the body. Below are some of the key factors that can trigger off a yeast overgrowth, leading to an
infection.

Antibiotic use - Antibiotics are often prescribed by doctors for treating various bacterial
infections. Long-term antibiotic use can destroy healthy bacteria, enabling yeast fungi to take
over and grow.

Diabetes - Yeast thrives on glucose. This is the reasons why men with diabetes may
suffer often with yeast infections. The high glucose content in the urine makes the body an
extremely suitable place for yeast to thrive.

Mercury Poisoning - Yeast cells absorb its weight in mercury preventing harm to the
body. However, yeast thrives in elevated mercury levels.

Foods - Certain foods can also increase the growth of yeast. The typical American diet
is quite susceptible to the overgrowth of yeast. For example, wheat, oats, barley and peanuts,
corn and red apples encourage the growth of yeast in the body. Beer too encourages the
growth of yeast.

Treating Male Yeast Infections

There are various methods of treating male yeast infections. Considering some of these methods can
help relieve the pain and discomfort associated with this condition. For example, there are various herbal
antifungal remedies that cure yeast infections. These include Genetian Violet, organic coconut oil, and
organic oregano oil, grape seed extracts and garlic and carrot juice. There are several over-the-counter
and prescription drugs that can be purchased for treating this condition too. Nizoral and Diflucan are
common medications for treating yeast infections. Apart from this, topical antifungal creams, such as,
Clotrimazole, Miconazole and Isocanazole are also available for treatment. Fungi thrive in moist
environments. Therefore, all men should ensure that they keep their genital areas as dry as possible.
Removal of excess hair is also recommended as this cause dampness and propensity to create humid
and sweaty conditions in which yeast colonies thrive.
A male yeast infection is both unpleasant and embarrassing to the affected person. It can be extremely
discomforting and painful. Understanding its causes and symptoms as well as treatment methods will help
not only those already affected with yeast infections but for all men in general as it can help in prevention
as well as diagnosis.

1. Treat a Dry Penis Caused by Psoriasis with Oregon Grape

Herbs can be effective in treating the symptoms of your dry penis but
you dont have to eat them. Oregon grape is a herb --- a cream made
from the herb was tested on psoriasis and found to be helpful.
A 2006 study from the Dermatology and Cosmetic Center, Rochester,
New York gave 200 people a cream with 10 percent Oregon grape
extract or a placebo cream to be used twice a day for three months.
Those using the Oregon grape cream experienced greater benefits than
the placebo group. Oregon grape in a cream is generally well-tolerated
although it may occasionally cause a rash on your skin.

2. Aloe is a Remedy for a Dry Penis

Aloe vera is also a helpful remedy to counter psoriasis and may be
better tolerated by your skin than Oregon grape cream. A 1996 study
from Malm University Hospital, Sweden found topical aloe vera cream
applied three times a day for four weeks was very effective against
psoriasis and could be useful for treating dry skin on the penis caused
by this condition.
3. Fish Oil Could Help Cure a Dry Penis
The scientific evidence for the power of fish oil in treating psoriasis,
and dry penis caused by psoriasis, is incomplete. However, many
experts believe fish oil can help beat this itchy condition.
A 1993 study from Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Sheffield, UK looked at
28 people with chronic psoriasis and found that patients taking fish oil
capsules every day saw significant improvements in itchiness, dryness
and scaling.
Update:
Since 1993, numerous other studies have confirmed the effectiveness
of omega 3 fatty acids, particularly eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) , in
treating psoriasis. A 2007 study which reviewed all other then-existing
studies on the subject, was conducted by doctors at Cardiff University,
Welsh School of Pharmacy in the UK. That mega-study noted that,
while EPA has been shown generally to have a positive effect on
psoriasis, not enough is known about the best way to deliver the oil to
the body--- in other words, should it be taken orally, applied to the skin
or should some other means be used to achieve optimal results.
While scientists debate the best way to deliver omega-3 to treat
psoriasis, you can certainly increase the amount of EPA in your body
the natural way --by eating more salmon, tuna, halibut, walnuts and
other foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
Strive to eat fish two to three times a week to improve dry penis skin.
(Read more about health benefits of fish oil.)
4. Treat Dry Penis Caused by Eczema with Chinese Herbal Medicine
If your dry penis is caused by eczema, perhaps Chinese herbal medicine
can help. According to a 1992 study by the Royal Free Hospital and

School of Medicine, London, UK a formula of Chinese herbs including

Potentilla chinensis, Paeonia lactiflora, Akebia clematidis, Rehmannia
glutinosa and Ledebouriella seseloides produced significant results as
an eczema treatment compared to placebo.
5. Chamomile Cream for a Dry Penis
There are benefits from applying a soothing cream to your penis if you
are suffering from dry and itchy skin. Chamomile has been shown to
offer soothing benefits to eczema sufferers. One 1985 study by Z
Hautkr et al treated 161 individuals with chamomile cream and found
the remedy to be equally effective against eczema as 0.25%
hydrocortisone cream. Chamomile cream is generally seen to be welltolerated and suitable for the sensitive skin on the penis.
6. Licorice Cream Can Help Treat a Dry, Itchy Penis
While youre looking at creams to ease the itch on your penis, consider
licorice cream. A cream made with 1 percent or 2 percent extract of
licorice was found to be more effective at treating eczema in a 2003
study from Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran than
placebo. The 2 percent cream was even better than the 1 percent.
7. Can Evening Primrose Oil Help a Dry Penis?
Evening primrose oil is a rich source of the essential fatty acid gammalinolenic acid (GLA), as are borage oil and black currant oil. Experts saw
evening primrose oil, taken in capsule form, is useful for treating
eczema.
Could it also help your dry penis caused by eczema? Maybe. A 1989
review from the Efamol Research Institute, Woodbridge Meadows,
Guildford, UK did find evening primrose oil reduced the itching
associated with eczema over several months of use, but studies after
this review have failed to find similar benefits.
One 1994 study from the University of Bologna, Italy found marginal
benefits but used very high doses of the supplement. One interesting
2007 study from Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama City, Japan
found undershirts coated with borage oil reduced the symptoms of
eczema in 32 children. The effect has not yet been tested on underwear.
8. Change Your Soap and Underwear to Prevent Dry Penis

The simple remedies are often the best, and cures for jock itch and dry
penis include switching your soap to a mild, soapless cleanser and
gently washing the skin twice a day. Wear 100 percent cotton
underwear to avoid skin irritation and to keep sweat away from the
skin. Switch your laundry detergent to a specialist detergent for
sensitive skin and skip the fabric softener and bleach.
9. Keep Your Private Parts Dry to Avoid Penis Itch
You can also cut your risk of a dry and itchy penis, and clear your
symptoms, by drying the genital area thoroughly with a clean towel
after showering and exercising.
Powder helps. You can use un-scented powder to get rid of moisture.
These measures help cut down the risk of bacterial and fungal
infections that thrive in warm, moist areas. If you have athletes foot,
treat it before it spreads to the groin and the penis.
10. Tea Tree Oil Can Help Prevent a Dry Penis
Tea tree oil is shown to be effective at treating athletes foot. When you
treat athletes foot you are less likely to pass the infection to your groin
area, where it can cause a dry and itchy penis.
A 2002 study from the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Camperdown, New
South Wales, Australia tested 158 people with athletes foot with a 25
percent tea tree solution, 50 percent tea tree oil solution or placebo.
In the 50% tea tree group, 64 percent of the patients were cured and
in the 25% tea tree group, 55 percent were cured of athletes foot
much better than placebo for getting rid of athletes foot that could
cause problems for your penis.