If you've ever wondered if there were effective herbal remedies for yeast infections, here are a few natural and herbal supplements to discuss with your gynecologist during your next visit. But, first, let's discuss what yeast infections actually are and how you may be able to lower your risk of re-infection.

What is a Yeast Infection, Exactly?

Vaginal yeast infection--medically known as candidiasis--is an extremely common infection caused by a yeast-like fungus called Candida. Yeast infections can also occur in the mouth, stomach, urinary tract and even on the skin. But when it occurs in the vagina, it's called vaginitis.

It may surprise you to know that we all have some Candida living in or on our bodies. It's only when the population, which is normally kept in check by our immune system, grows out of control that we experience an infection.

How common is vaginal yeast infection? Experts tell us that around 3/4 of all women will get at least one infection in their lifetimes and people with depressed immune systems are even more susceptible. In fact, women with HIV or AIDS have around a 90% chance of infection.

While women are the primary "sufferers" of genital candida infections, men can also experience this condition. In men, this condition can result in an itchy rash on the penis.

Herbal Remedies for Yeast Infections

Herbal and natural medicine may have much to offer some women who struggle with vaginal yeast infections. While few home remedies work to "cure" an infection, supplements of certain herbs, nutrients and even "good" bacteria may help some women lower their risk of re-infection.

Lactobacillus acidophilus

It's not an herbal remedy but supplements of "good" bacteria like Lactobacillus acidophilus may help restore the ratio of good-to-bad bacteria throughout the digestive tract. L. acidophilus is a type of "beneficial" bacteria that lives normally in the vagina and is thought to keep populations of "bad" germs in check.

Your mother's generation used plain, unsweetened yogurt to fight yeast infections and at least one study supports this. When women with AIDS were given vaginal suppositories containing this beneficial bacteria, they achieved results rivaling those achieved by women using the yeast infection drug clotrimazole.

Garlic

Some naturopaths recommend cloves of garlic as an alternative to pharmaceutical vaginal suppositories. While the use of garlic in this way has not been studied scientifically, scientists do know that garlic is a potent anti-microbial herb effective against a variety of both bacteria and fungi.

Using cloves of garlic as a suppository isn't without controversy, however. When used in this way, garlic is capable of causing severe burns.

Tea Tree Oil

Dr. Andrew Weil is among the "natural" experts who recommend douches made with 10% tea tree oil. While Dr. Weil actually recommends this treatment for women with bacterial infections, tea tree oil possesses anti-fungal properties, as well.

Lime Juice

Popular in some parts of Africa, douches made with lime juice have been used for years to treat or prevent infections ranging from yeast infections to AIDS. Unfortunately no reliable data supporting this treatment exists and concentrations high enough to destroy many pathogens exceed the safe limit of 20%.

Talking to your Doctor

It's important to discuss any herbal remedies for yeast infections--even vaginal yeast infections--with a qualified medical expert. Any herbal remedy has the potential for side effects and many herbs can interact with medications you may already be taking.

It's especially important to discuss yeast infections before embarking on a self-treatment regimen. Today, experts know that more than half of all "yeast" infections aren't yeast infections at all. Over 50% of all vaginal infections are caused by bacteria and over-the-counter remedies may be ineffective or, even worse, ultimately make the infection worse.

Remember, only your doctor is qualified to give you medical advice. For information about these or any other herbal remedies for yeast infection, talk to your gynecologist for the information that's appropriate for you.

References:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2008). Candidiasis.

Williams, A., et al. (2000). Weekly treatment for prophylaxis of Candida vaginitis.

Berner, P. (2001). Female - Garlic and Vaginal Infection.

Weil, A. (2007). Bacterial Vaginosis: Fighting a Feminine Infection. Retrieved from drweil.com on April 14, 2008.

Hemmerling, A., et al. (2007).