Vaginal yeast infection, characterized by redness and inflammation, severe itching, and a white, lumpy discharge, is an extremely common condition. It is caused by an imbalance of bacteria naturally found in the vagina, rather than an infection from an outside source. The best natural cure for yeast infection should restore the balance of vaginal flora and maintain the vagina's normal pH so the beneficial bacteria may continue to flourish. Common elements of a natural cure for yeast infection include yogurt, garlic, and supplements that promote the growth of healthy bacteria in the vagina.
One common natural cure for yeast infection is plain, unpasteurized yogurt because yogurt contains beneficial probiotics. Some brands of yogurt have additional probiotics added into them. Usually right before bed, the yogurt may be applied directly to the vagina and vulva, or frozen yogurt may be used as a suppository. The cold temperature of the yogurt can help soothe the itching and discomfort. Eating yogurt daily may also be an effective natural cure for yeast infection.
Probiotic nutritional supplements are also available to help maintain the optimum level of beneficial bacteria in the digestive tract and vagina. Nutritional supplements containing probiotics are extracted from natural sources. These are often recommended while taking antibiotics to prevent the growth of candida.
Garlic is another widely-used natural cure for a yeast infection, as is tea tree oil. Garlic and tea tree oil both have anti-fungal properties, and are natural ways to reduce candida outbreaks. Garlic can be used as a suppository, usually as a whole clove wrapped in gauze that is inserted into the vagina at bedtime. Tea tree oil must be diluted before application to delicate vaginal skin, either topically to the vulva or in a douche with water or vinegar.
In a healthy vagina, the fungus that causes the discomfort of a yeast infection is kept in check by beneficial bacteria such as acidophillus and lactobacillus, also called probiotics. The fungus, called candida, can grow out of control if the natural bacteria are reduced. Candida may also increase if the vagina is often in a warm, humid environment, such as a wet swimsuit or tight, non-breathable clothing. Oral antibiotics often lead to vaginal yeast infections because the antibiotics kill both beneficial and harmful bacteria. A yeast infection may also occur as a result of oral contraceptives, exhaustion, or illness.
Not all vaginal infections are yeast infections, so women should not attempt a natural cure for yeast infection themselves without a doctor's diagnosis. If a vaginal infection is accompanied by burning, fever, or a bad-smelling discharge, it is probably not a yeast infection and requires medical treatment.