10 Top Home Remedies for Yeast Infection

Millions of individuals, especially women, suffer from yeast infections, a familiar yet annoying issue. Candida overgrowth can cause itching, irritation, and discomfort that interferes with day-to-day functioning, making it hard to concentrate on work, sleep, or even basic tasks. Although there are several over-the-counter antifungal medications, many people choose natural alternatives that are mild, efficient, and free of harmful chemicals.

You can safely and quickly treat yeast infections at home with ingredients that have proven antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and calming effects. Without producing undesirable side effects, natural treatments can aid in restoring the body’s equilibrium and combating fungal overgrowth. Read this HealthSpectra post to learn about treatment and home remedies for yeast infections.

Read More: How to Cure A Yeast Infection with Cranberry Juice 

What Is Yeast Infection or Vaginal Yeast Infection?

A type of yeast called Candida, which is present in your body, causes vaginal yeast infections, a typical kind of fungal infection. Candida is a particular kind of yeast, and yeast is a form of fungus. When your body maintains a balance of this yeast, it causes no issues.

However, if the yeast is out of balance, it develops quickly and can cause a yeast infection.

Most women experience a vaginal yeast infection at some point in their lives, and many have it more than once.

A vaginal yeast infection can occur in non-sexual people. Therefore, it is not considered a sexually transmitted disease. However, intercourse can cause vaginal yeast infections.

When you start having sex, your risk of developing a vaginal yeast infection increases.

Additionally, oral-genital sex—sexual contact between the mouth and genital area—may be connected to some vaginal yeast infections.

Medications can treat vaginal yeast infections. A longer treatment term and a preventative strategy may be necessary for yeast infections that occur four or more times a year. 

Causes of Yeast Infection

Candida Albicans is the reason for vaginal yeast infection in 90% of cases. Other Candida species cause the remaining yeast infections that do not result from Candida albicans.

Women already have Candida in the vagina without symptoms. It develops into infection only when the bacteria and yeast balance is disturbed, leading to yeast overgrowth.

• Antibiotics eradicate the good bacteria in the vagina that often aid in controlling yeast growth. A yeast infection may result when yeast outnumbers these helpful microorganisms.
• Changes in the menstrual cycle, the use of birth control pills, or pregnancy can all cause hormonal changes that upset the balance of Candida in the vaginal environment.
• Increased sugar in the urine due to elevated blood sugar levels might foster yeast growth.
• The body may become more vulnerable to candida overgrowth as a result of immune-suppressive illnesses and therapies, such as HIV/AIDS drugs, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

To avoid the chances of vaginal yeast infections, wear cotton underwear or underwear with cotton crotch. Avoid tight-fitting pants and prolonged wearing of wet bathing suits.

Read More: 5 Types of Infections That You Must Know in Detail 

Symptoms of Yeast Infections Include

Significant symptoms of vaginal yeast infections include thick, odorless, white vaginal discharge. It looks like a cottage cheese-like consistency. Other symptoms include:

• Irritation
• Burning
• Itching in the genital area
• Pain during urination and intercourse
• Soreness
• Redness
• Swelling 

How to Get Rid of Yeast Infection?

Doctors need an accurate diagnosis to treat the yeast infection since other infections can also cause discharge. They may suggest a laboratory test, such as a culture or microscopic examination, to identify the yeast organisms. Thus, the tests help rule out other causes for vaginal discharge, like bacterial vaginosis or other sexually-transmitted diseases. 

Treatment for Yeast Infection

Antifungal drugs treat the majority of vaginal yeast infections. The severity of the disease determines which drug is best. Your healthcare provider will recommend the optimal action based on your condition and symptoms.

Antifungal drugs prevent your body from producing too much yeast, helping restore a healthy balance and alleviate symptoms of infection. Fluconazole is often used orally in a single dose or topically every day for a maximum of seven days. You can use an applicator to administer topical drugs to your vaginal area or insert them within your vagina (suppository).

Terconazole and miconazole (Monistat®) are two examples of common antifungal drugs.

Your healthcare provider will provide information on each type of medication and instructions on how to take it correctly. Always take these drugs as directed by your healthcare professional to ensure that the infection is completely cured and doesn’t recur. 

Read More: At Home Fungal Skin Infection Treatment – 10 Natural Remedies That Work 

Home Remedies for Yeast Infection 

1. Boric Acid

Undoubtedly, one of the most often used at-home remedies for yeast infections is boric acid suppositories. Because of its inherent antifungal qualities, boric acid is most frequently used to treat recurring infections. However, you should never use it orally and must administer it carefully. Pregnant women should never use boric acid because ingesting it can be lethal. 

2. Garlic

People have traditionally used garlic to treat a wide range of illnesses. It produces allicin, a substance that lowers inflammation. This characteristic may lessen the symptoms of yeast infection rather than eliminate them. According to available data, garlic is only effective as a natural treatment for some types of yeast infections and when combined with other antifungal medications.

However, it’s crucial to keep in mind that anything inserted into the vagina could aggravate it much more. Before trying any home treatments, talking about your alternatives with your primary care physician may be helpful.

Read More: 13 Useful Home Remedies For Treating Urinary Tract Infections 

3. Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt contains live bacteria like Lactobacillus acidophilus, which help maintain a healthy environment in your vagina and help treat an overgrowth brought on by an imbalance.

A 2015 study found that a combination of yogurt and honey improved the symptoms of vaginal yeast infections. Greek yogurt can be effective against Candida Albicans. 

To get the advantages, attempt:

• Consuming the yogurt.
• Putting it on the area surrounding your vagina or vulva.
• Putting it vaginally using your fingertips or a sanitized tampon applicator.

4. Probiotics

Live microorganisms, such as specific bacteria and yeasts, are known as probiotics. You can find them as vaginal suppositories, oral supplements, and in some diets.

Some researchers have shown probiotics to help treat yeast infections by reestablishing the vaginal bacterial balance.

According to a 2020 study, an oral probiotic Lactobacillus supplement could effectively treat bacterial vaginosis and yeast infections.

In a similar vein, vaginal Lactobacillus capsules proved to be a very successful treatment when taken in conjunction with medicine in a small 2015 study of 19 women who had recurring yeast infections. One year later, 89% of the individuals who took the capsules for 10 days in addition to their medicine were still free of yeast infections. 

5. Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide, an antiseptic, can kill yeast and bacteria. The Lactobacillus bacteria in your vagina naturally produce hydrogen peroxide as part of their biological function.

Some people swear by applying hydrogen peroxide topically when they acquire a yeast infection.

Diluting it in water or adding it to a bath before applying it to your skin may assist with yeast growth on the genitalia. You can dilute equal parts of water and hydrogen peroxide.

Just be aware that not all yeast species may respond to hydrogen peroxide, and there isn’t any solid evidence to support using it to treat vaginal infections.

Read More: 10 Usual Causes For Vulva Irritation and Home Remedies 

6. Vitamin C

Vitamin C strengthens the immune system and contributes to healthy skin. A robust immune system enables the body to regain equilibrium.

Some people use vitamin C, ascorbic acid, to treat Candida overgrowth since it contains antibacterial properties. To help your body fight off the yeast infection, consider consuming more vitamin C. 

7. Coconut Oil

According to research, coconut oil, which has antifungal qualities, may help combat yeast overgrowth. It can also relieve inflammation and itching. Purchase organic, pure coconut oil and apply it to the afflicted regions. 

8. Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is a well-established antifungal that works well against Candida albicans. According to 2020 study, tea tree oil worked well against yeast resistant to antifungal drugs. Nevertheless, there is a lack of trustworthy information regarding the application of tea tree oil to vaginal yeast infections.

If you want to use tea tree oil in your treatment regimen, discuss it with your gynecologist. The skin and vaginal walls may become irritated by tea tree oil. You should not take the essential oil orally or apply it directly to the vagina. Use suppositories instead, or combine with a carrier oil and apply on a tampon.

Read More: 10 Home Remedies To Treat Frequent Urination- Total Natural Treatment 

9. Oregano Oil

Oregano oil, extracted from the wild oregano plant Origanum vulgare, contains potent antifungals thymol and carvacrol.

Certain studies have shown that wild oregano is more effective than other essential oils extracted from Lamiaceae plants at stopping or inhibiting the growth of candida albicans.

It is possible to place oregano oil-containing capsules into the vagina at night. Another option is to apply it on a tampon before insertion.

Before using, it’s a good idea to check for oil oregano allergies on the forearm. Comparing several items is also advised. 

10. Apple Cider Vinegar

Another well-liked natural treatment for yeast infections is an apple cider vinegar bath. Adding ½–1 cup of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar to warm bath and soaking for 20 minutes can alleviate yeast infection symptoms.

However, prolonged exposure to vinegar can create irritation, so pay attention to how your body responds and use this home treatment sparingly if you’re having unfavorable side effects.

Read More: Why Probiotics Might Not Work Without Prebiotics: How to Maximize Gut Health 

FAQ’s 

1. What Does a Yeast Infection Look Like?

Particularly in the genital area, a yeast infection usually manifests as a red, inflamed rash with possibly white patches. Sometimes, it is called “cottage cheese-like” discharge, along with burning and itching sensations. Depending on the location, it may appear as flaky skin, crusting, or small pimple-like bumps, possibly oozing in extreme cases. 

2. How Long Does a Yeast Infection Last?

Although mild infections may disappear independently, doctors advise treatment to prevent recurrence. With the proper care, a common yeast infection often goes away in a few days to a week, but more severe instances may take up to two weeks to recover. 

3. Is Yeast Infection Contagious?

Most people with strong immune systems will not easily contract a yeast infection from another person. However, since it can transfer to a partner during sexual activity, it is technically contagious, even though it is not an STI. 

4. Do Men Get Yeast Infection?

Yes, even men get the yeast infection. 

5. Can Anyone Get Yeast Infection During Pregnancy?

Immunity levels during pregnancy are low; hence, the chances of flaring yeast infections are high during this phase. 

6. How Serious is Yeast Infection?

Since most yeast infections are harmless and easily treated with over-the-counter medications, they are typically not regarded as serious. However, if untreated, they can worsen and become uncomfortable, and in rare instances—especially in individuals with compromised immune systems—they can spread to the bloodstream and become life-threatening, necessitating immediate medical attention. 

Conclusion

Although yeast infections cause discomfort, the correct strategy can treat them. Strong antifungal qualities in natural remedies, including probiotics, coconut oil, tea tree oil, and apple cider vinegar, help balance the body, fight infections, and reduce discomfort. Using these treatments and preventative strategies, like eating a balanced diet and practicing good and clean hygiene, you can lower your risk of recurring infections.

Why not try these safe and efficient home cures for yeast infection? They have natural therapeutic qualities, are inexpensive, and are simple. If symptoms continue, the best action is to see a doctor.

Have you tried any of these? Which did you find most effective? Tell us about your experience.

• Jan 2018
  Written by Sumana Maheswari
• March 2025
  Edited by Ankita