Simple Tips to Cure a Yeast Infection

The itching, the burning…aghhhh! It’s enough to test the limits of sanity for any woman. And while yeast infections are thought to be mainly a problem among women, did you know that men can also get them? This is especially true for a man whose wife is suffering from one, since having sex will pass the infection back and forth. For a woman, however, the problem is a little trickier, since yeast thrives in a dark, moist environment. Simply put, the vagina is yeast’s dream home!

Many women (and men) suffering from yeast infections resort to the remedies found in a drug store: creams, suppositories, and other “medical” remedies. The problem with these is that they tend to help for only a short period of time and then the yeast comes back with a vengeance. In my experience, there are other, more effective ways to combat this evil menace. In this article, I will highlight some remedies that have worked for me, as a woman. Most, if not all, of these can be adapted for a man, as well.

Here are some home remedies that have worked for me:

Plain yogurt

The good bacteria in plain yogurt helps fight yeast and yogurt can be used both internally and externally. BUT, be sure you buy plain, unsweetened yogurt. Since sugar feeds yeast, this is a crucial point. You can also make your own, using a yogurt starter. I have done this myself and it is simple and the results are quite good. The advantage is that you can use other types of milk, such as soy or almond. While I made mine directly on the stovetop, you can also purchase a yogurt maker, if you want to take the thinking out of the process. Whether purchased or homemade, yogurt is a great thing to eat before meals because it provides “good bacteria” for your stomach to aid in digestion.

For a topical treatment, you can also dip a tampon in plain yogurt and insert it into your vagina or simply rub some on the outside. I have found, however, that leaving it on for a prolonged period tends to have the opposite effect. It seems that once it has done its job, it is best to wipe it off or you will feel itchier due to the moisture.

Garlic

Garlic is a big enemy of yeast! This is one of the most effective home remedies I have found for instant relief. Inserting one garlic tab (such as Shaklee’s Garlic Tabs) or a garlic clove into the vagina every few hours or as needed provides soothing relief. If you use garlic tabs, be sure the ingredients are natural and pure. I highly recommend the Shaklee garlic tabs. They are what I have always used with great results.

Of course, garlic can be taken internally, as well. Again, the Shaklee garlic tabs work great. I have also used Kyolic garlic tabs and liquid in the past with good results. Or, if you don’t mind the smell, you can press a whole garlic clove and drink it down quickly with water. I have found this to be very effective. Do it as often as necessary. Garlic is one of nature’s amazing “drugs” that has a number of other health benefits, including lowering blood pressure and reducing bad cholesterol. It is a natural antibiotic. In fact, my Greek father-in-law eats raw garlic everyday and, in his mid-sixties, is very rarely sick.

Apple-cider vinegar (with the mother)

Apple-cider vinegar has many health benefits (including aiding in weight loss) and can be used both internally and externally, as well. However, it is very strong, so it is not recommended that you apply it directly on the skin. It will kill the yeast, but it will burn like nothing you’ve ever felt! The best external application is to add about a cup of it into your bathwater and take a nice hot bath. This will feel very relaxing and soothing and will help temporarily. I don’t find it as effective long-term, however, as the garlic suppositories. They provide full-day relief.

The type of vinegar I recommend is Bragg’s Apple Cider Vinegar, with the Mother. It is important that it have the mother, as this is more natural and less processed. Never use plain, white vinegar! This actually feeds the yeast instead of killing it.

Water

In my opinion, this is one of the world’s most powerful, secret remedies for any illness! I strongly believe that if we all drank the amount of water our bodies need, we would see a great reduction in all types of sicknesses.

Most doctors say that we should drink at least eight 8-oz. glasses of water daily, but many people need even more than that. I have found that simply drinking enough water greatly reduces my likelihood for getting a yeast infection. Because I am drinking more water, and subsequently urinating more frequently, my body is able to flush out the sugars that feed the yeast.

Be sure to drink water that is pure and free from toxins. It is best to purchase some type of water filtration system, such as one made by Shaklee. Other brands that are good are the Brita and PUR brands. Be sure that regardless of what system you purchase, you do your research first to be sure that it will be effective in its performance.

If you do only one thing, drink more water. It’s easy, accessable, natural, and has no side effects!

Oil of Oregano

This is an amazing herb! It is very potent against yeast. Take it internally daily, according to directions. Be sure, also, that the type of oil you choose has a high carvacrol content, as this is the active ingredient. I recommend Oreganol Super Strength P73.

Beneficial bacteria supplement

A healthy body contains trillions of microoragnisms, most of which reside in the colon. Their main function is to provide balance for less-desirable organisms (such as yeast). I use Shaklee Optiflora to help maintain these probiotics and prebiotics in my intestines. I have used other products in the past, but have not found that their level of quality matched this product’s. Other products can only gaurantee a certain amount of organisms at manufacture. However, Shaklee gaurantees that the bacteria will be alive when you ingest it and be delivered to the intestines. So, at this point, I can only suggest their product.

Solutions-4-You

This is a botanical, non-toxic multi-purpose solution that can be sprayed directly onto the skin. It is extremely soothing on a yeast infection and is effective at killing yeast. I use it straight from the bottle, without diluting it. I find it works best that way, but please be aware that this is not how the company recommends using it. It can be purchased at this site: www.solutions-4-you.com.

Here are some things that you should try to avoid when fighting a yeast infection:

Taking birth-control pills—Birth control pills weaken the immune system, making you succeptable to yeast.

Taking antibiotics—Antibiotics also weaken the immune system.

Douching—Douching can upset the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina.

Feminine deodorants—These can be very irritating to anyone, especially those with yeast infections.

Non-cotton underwear—Any underwear made of man-made fibers is not breathable, as cotton is. They trap moisture and heat, creating a perfect environment for yeast.

Clothing that is tight in the crotch—Tight clothing also creates a warm environment for yeast to grow.

Sitting in a wet bathing suit for a prolonged period—This creates not only a warm environment, but a moist one, as well. Perfect for yeast growth!

Pantyhose—Tight, man-made fiber that also allows yeast to flourish.

Foods that feed yeast—Avoid sugar, yeast, refined foods (such as white flour), and other foods listed on www.YeastRemedies.com.

Need more help? Check out the other tips and find the products mentioned in this article at www.YeastRemedies.com. Have you experienced success with any of the remedies mentioned in this article? Or, have you found a home remedy that works well for you? Why not help others by sharing your tips and stories in our yeast forum, located at www.NutritionTalkNow.com? You can also find plenty of other advice from our members there.

The information provided is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to be prescriptive or substitutionary for health care by a medical doctor. Persons wishing to follow any advice should do so strictly of their own accord. The contents herein do not prescribe the use of any technique as a form of treatment, nor does it dispense medical advice as a form of treatment for medical problems without the advice of a physician, either directly or indirectly.

About The Author

Danielle Papageorgiou has been interested in and reading about nutrition and natural remedies for almost a decade. She considers herself an “experienced former yeast sufferer.”

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The Things YOU MUST KNOW about yeast infection

§ Yeast lives in two forms. ROOTS and SPORES. It can cause Chronic Yeast Infection can ruin your health.

§ The human body has NO ABILITY to attack and kill the spores. I WILL SHOW YOU HOW TO KILL THEM. Other internet products don’t.

§ There are no drugs YOU CAN TAKE that can KILL THE SPORES, BUT THERE IS AN ALL-NATURAL WAY, the drug companies don’t want you to know about.

§ Yeast Spores can remain dormant for years….then suddenly FLARE-UP and cause YEAST INFECTION, LEARN HOW TO FIGHT BACK AND WIN.

§ Yeast infections will infect 75% of all people at some point. I will show you what you can do to INSTANTLY HELP YOURSELF AND OTHERS. Other internet products don’t.

§ Olive leaf extract can kill yeast infection, but what the other web sites don’t mention is its TOXICITY to the LIVER. I EXPLAIN IT IN DETAIL.

§ Diaper rash often is a symptom of yeast infection. I EXPLAIN HOW TO QUICKLY CURE DIAPER RASH.

§ Men also get genital yeast infection, and have nosymptoms, then pass it on to their sexual partner. Drug companies and other internet sites don’t mention this. I EXPLAIN HOW TO CURE THIS.

§ Mouth sores, or a white coating in a baby’s mouth, known as thrush, is a symptom of yeast infection. I explain a non drug treatment that is safe and is NOT EXPLAINED ANYWHERE ELSE.

§ Skin rashes are frequently yeast infections, particularly in skin folds, such as under breasts. Other web sites don’t deal with the treatment of this, I show how YOU CAN CURE THIS TYPE OF YEAST INFECTION.

§ Painful urination can be a symptom of a yeast infection. And I explain the SIMPLE CURE FOR THIS YEAST INFECTION.

To Find Out More About The “Natural Cure For Yeast Infection” Click Here Now!

Is There A Natural Yeast Infection Cure?
 by: Kathryn Whittaker

Most women would love to know if there was a natural yeast infection cure. If your yeast infection is not that serious, you can treat it naturally. There are a lot of ways and steps on how to prevent yeast infections from occurring.

The first natural yeast infection cure is simply to eat a well-balanced diet. You should eat well and never skip meals. It is important to take your diet seriously because there are some foods that may cause and ignite the growth of yeast. Eating chicken, beef, fish, vegetables, yogurt, seeds, nut, eggs and oils is beneficial in the fight against yeast infections. What you should avoid eating are those foods made with refined and simple sugars. This includes brown sugar, white sugar, raw sugar, molasses, grain sweeteners and honey. If you can’t or don’t want to exclude sweet tasting food from your diet you can use Stevia as a substitute. Eating a lot of raw garlic can be helpful. You should avoid drinking milk and alcohol. You should also avoid eating mushrooms, fruits and dried fruits.

It is important to avoid foods that contain mold or yeast. This includes cakes, muffins, baked goods, cheese, breads, melons, dried fruits and peanuts. Increasing your fiber intake can help. You can take one teaspoon to one tablespoon of soluble fiber which contains psyllium husks, guar gum, pectin and flaxseeds. This can be mixed in an 8 oz glass of drinking water which should be taken two times a day. It is necessary to drink this during an empty stomach.

Taking nutritional supplements is also effective. One capsule of Acidophillus contains probiotic lactobacillus which should be ingested daily. This controls growth of candida, by keeping our intestinal tract more acidic which discourages the growth of candida or yeast. Acidophillus produces hydrogen peroxide, which directly stops and kills candida. Many researches have proven that supplementing with hydrogen peroxide will reduce the occurrence of the antibiotic generated yeast infections. Controlling bacteria can help in restoring the microbial balance in the digestive system, thereby, fighting the growth of yeast.

Good hygiene habits prevent the production of yeast. You should aim to stay fit and healthy. Poor hygiene can contribute to yeast infections. If you tend to wear synthetic clothing, your skin will not breathe freely which can encourage yeast growth to take place. You should avoid wearing tight clothes and go with loose, breathable cotton items. People who perspire heavily should understand clearly that wearing tight, synthetic clothes invites the growth and formulation of yeast.

Now that you know and understand there are steps to you can take to achieve a natural yeast infection cure, it is important that you take these suggestions on board and stop yeast infections from reoccurring.

Candida- It’s Not Just a Yeast Infection
 by: Dr. Rita Louise

Candida Albicans or a yeast infection, both digestive and systemic, is a health problem of which answers to its elimination are far and few between. Literally millions of men and women have a potential yeast infection that is causing, directly or indirectly, a significant number of health problems or conditions.

Candida Albicans is a destructive yeast infection that begins in the digestive system and little by little spreads to other parts of the body. Candida is present in all of us not long after birth. Typically, this yeast remain in a healthful balance with the other bacteria and yeasts within the intestinal tract. Under certain conditions, such as excessive stress, lowered immunity or the long-term use of steroids, the candida yeast can multiply, thus disrupting the gastrointestinal “terrain”. Candida overgrowth may also be a consequence of antibiotic treatment, as antibiotics not only kill pathogens but also a large number of those bacteria that are part of a healthy gastrointestinal flora. With the depletion of the beneficial protective flora in the intestinal tract and a weakened immune response, this opportunistic yeast can then spread and multiply beyond the intestinal tract affecting every organ in the body.

In babies, an overgrowth of candida appears as diaper rash. It can also be found on the body as jock itch or athlete’s foot. It can appear in the mouth as thrush or in the vaginal tract, known by many women as a yeast infection. Systemic yeast is now being associated with a variety of conditions ranging from mental disorders, deranged immune system, food intolerance, gastric upsets, premenstrual tension, infertility, ovarian failure, sexual function difficulties and fatigue. It can manifest with a multitude of symptoms including constipation, diarrhea, colitis, headaches, bad breath, mood swings, canker sores, muscle and joint pain, congestion, severe itching, PMS, fatigue, kidney or bladder infections to name a few. It is estimated that 30% of the population suffer from health issues directly related to yeast. In fact, the majority of people who have Candida do not realize they have it until become seriously ill.

If you think you might have candida, or would like to find out if you do, take this simple self-scoring Candida Questionnaire located at http://www.soulhealer.com/yeast.htm. If you score over 140 points on this test, you might want to follow the Recommendations for Wellness listed below to begin down the road of better health.

Recommendations For Wellness.

1. Avoid all yeast containing foods: Yeast breads, fermented beverages (beer, wine, brandy, scotch, etc.) moldy cheeses, fermented vinegars, salad dressing, peanuts, biscuits, canned citrus fruit juices, cake mix, ice cream, all dried fruit, oranges, pickles, tomato sauce, sugars, yeast powder, processed and smoked meats, malt products, barbecue sauce, olives, mayonnaise, chili peppers.
2. Avoid all refined carbohydrates, artificial sweeteners, hidden sugars such as those found in soft drinks, pastries, canned fruits and vegetables.
3. Rotate between at least 3 different anti-fungal herbs every 4 days to kill the candida yeast in the intestinal tract. These herbs can include Garlic, Caprylic Acid and Pau d’ Arco (Taheebo tea).
4. Supplement with Lactobacillus Acidophilus or Bifidophilus daily. This helps to reintroduce the good bacteria back into the intestinal tract.
5. Take 1 tablespoon of Flax seed or olive oil daily to improve healing and prevent the fungus from destroying cells.
6. Incorporate Echinacea to help strengthen the immune system.
7. Multivitamin & mineral complex with vitamin A to provide all the nutrients needed for proper immune function and for repair of intestinal lining. Try to select a vitamin complex that includes zinc.
8. Treat any skin yeast or fungal infection with tea tree oil.

How To Cleanse Your Body Of Candida
 by: Gray Rollins

Candida Cleansing

Candida Albicans is a naturally occurring yeast, or fungus, that is commonly found in everybody’s intestines, throat, mouth, genitals and urinary tract. When friendly bacteria and a properly functioning immune system are not present, balance of the system may be lost and Candida overgrowth may occur.

Its overgrowth is thought to be a frequent complication or even a causative factor in many of today’s illnesses. The condition was most widely publicized by Dr. William Crook in his 1983 book, called The Yeast Connection. Other names for this overgrowth of yeast in the body include candida-related complex, polysystemic candidiasis, and chronic candidiasis. Some doctors dismiss the yeast-health connection as another fad but an increasing number of both MD’s and naturopaths are treating Candida overgrowth as a serious infection that deserves attention and treatment.

Someone with an overgrowth of yeast can experience any number of unpleasant symptoms such as a yeast infection, fatigue, rash, depression and anxiety. The symptoms of Candida overgrowth are frequently treated with anti-fungal remedies. Even with these remedies, however, if your diet is not changed to create an environment within the body to prohibit the overgrowth of Candida, relief is sure to be temporary, and problem symptoms will return.

Once you have established that you have a yeast infection there are a variety of dietary changes that you can make to improve your health. Dietary changes are an important part of Candida cleansing.

Refined sugar should be eliminated from your diet entirely as it encourages the growth of yeast. So should fruit and fruit juices - as they contain natural sugars that promote the growth of yeast. Don’t drink beer, wine or liquor as the alcohol also provides sugar, and many of these products are fermented with yeast. Bagels, muffins, pastries, breads and crackers should also be eliminated from the diet as they contain yeast and sugar. Anything with vinegar – which is made with yeast culture – should be avoided as well. Mushrooms should be avoided as should peanuts and peanut butter, cheeses, and meats that are dried, smoked or pickled. Beverages that should be avoided are fermented drinks such as root beer and cider, black tea, and coffee, including decaffeinated.

Both herbal remedies and prescribed medications can be helpful in cleansing the body of yeast. Increasing your intake of raw garlic and soluble fiber will help your body to fight the yeast infection. A supplemental dose of acidophilus will help to make your intestinal track more acidic which helps to kill off the Candida. Other recommended supplements include volatile oils, such as peppermint oil or oregano oil in capsule form as the straight liquid may be toxic, tea tree oil and olive leaf extract. Check with your herbalist as to dose, mode of use and formulations. For antifungal remedies not available over the counter check with your doctor about side effects, costs and availability.

Early in the treatment many people notice a worsening of their symptoms. When the Candida is killed it releases proteins and toxins. This process is known as die-off or the Herxheimer reaction and is temporary. With strict adherence to the diet, and treatment regime the patient will usually begin to notice improvements in two to four weeks.

Treating Candida
 by: Jane Symms

Typically, those with candida have compromised immune systems, although this is not always the case. In recent years medical researchers have begun to realize that there might be benefits in treating healthy people who have experienced an overgrowth of candida. It appears to be a worthwhile approach that scientists and researchers are scrambling to understand.

When treating candida, it is important to remember that it is just a substance that is normally present in the body – the problems only occur when there is much more of it then there should be. Have you ever heard the expression ‘too much of a good thing is no good at all’? - this saying applies directly to candida growth.

The most common form of treatment for candida is through the use of antibiotics. Since it is excess bad bacteria that allows yeast to grow which causes Candida, certain antibiotics will help destroy the overgrowth. However, antibiotics also kill good bacteria – they don’t discriminate – and the use of antibiotics can have an adverse effect on the rest of the body. You can compare it to chemotherapy in a sense – chemotherapy destroys cancerous cells, however, it also destroys healthy tissue. Your body requires a healthy balance of bacteria to keep its systems running at top speed. In fact, your digestive tract in particular requires helpful bacteria to ensure proper digestive functioning.

It is common for many women to develop yeast infections while they are taking prescription antibiotics. This occurs due to the fact that the good bacteria keep yeast formation in check. Furthermore, the widespread use of antibiotics has limited their ability to fight against bacteria. Common use has allowed bacteria to adapt to particular antibiotics, potentially rendering them ineffective. Also, if you are taking antibiotics, it is extremely important to finish the entire course. Many people start feeling better and simply stop taking the pills. This can allow remaining bacteria to develop immunity to that specific antibiotic.

Another method of treating candida is through the employment of probiotics. Put simply, probiotics are other forms of live bacteria that are good for the body. Probiotics are available in powders, capsules, and even in some types of yogurt.

These represent the main medical treatments for candida. It is important that you ensure your body has a good balance of bacteria in order for it to function well. Sometimes candida growth can occur in healthy people and research has proven this fact. It is paramount that you do everything possible to limit candida growth as the consequences of letting it run unchecked can be extremely detrimental to your health.