Should I Use Vinegar for Yeast Infection?

Natural treatments for yeast infection are popular, especially considering the price of over-the-counter medications. These organic treatments include cranberry juice, garlic, yogurt, and other supplements that help diminish yeast levels and restore healthy bacteria. Vinegar has been used as a natural alternative for many years and has been proven to be both safe and effective. Vinegar acts as a natural, gentle antiseptic that can be diluted and applied topically to get rid of yeast, especially when you use it in conjunction with other natural remedies.

Candida albicans is the most common yeast, though there are several types of yeast infections. The condition causes redness, itching, and swelling in the genital area and can cause great discomfort for sufferers. While vinegar doesn't always get rid of the yeast, it can often help.

It is important to know which type of vinegar to use in treating an infection: white vinegar and apple cider vinegar are the only kinds that are recommended. Keep in himd that applying vinegar directly to the genital area can cause great discomfort, so it is necessary to dilute it with water first. Using vinegar for yeast infection is healthy only when it is used correctly.

One option is to add 1 cup (0.23 l) of vinegar to bathwater and soaking in the solution. It should be noted that this method is more effective for men than women. A second option for women is to mix 4 teaspoons (20 ml) of vinegar with 1 quart (0.95 l) of warm water, to be used as a douche. After douching with the solution twice a day for a few days, the infection should go away. This method yields the best results when used with a plain, unpasteurized yogurt suppository overnight for several days.

For itching and discomfort in the genital area, diluted vinegar can be applied with a cotton swab. People with oral yeast infections, also called thrush, can drink apple cider vinegar for treatment, though for non-oral infections, this method is less effective than applying it directly to the area. The most favorable results are obtained by direct application to the infected area.

Using only vinegar for yeast infection treatment is not guaranteed to work, especially in cases of severe infection. It is best to see a medical professional to receive a diagnosis and ask about healthy, natural alternative treatments. When using home remedies, it is also important to research a method thoroughly before choosing to proceed. Overall, using vinegar can be a safe and natural yeast infection treatment when it is done properly.