Vaginal yeast infections, or Candidiasis, are a type of fungus infection that is caused by an overgrowth of the Candida albicans. This fungus lives quite naturally in the body, but when there is a disturbance in the ratio of bacteria and yeast within it, it may end up overgrowing the yeast, therefore causing an infection.
Typically, it presents itself with symptoms like itching, burning, irritation, and abnormal discharge. Thick, white, cottage cheese-like discharge is usual. The infection may worsen with a significantly uncomfortable feel without treatment. Poor hygiene, hormonal imbalances, reduced immunity, and long periods of using antibiotics are some conditions usually associated with yeast infections.
The most common symptom of yeast infections is itchy sensation within the vaginal area. This condition causes heightened redness, inflammation, and irritation of the vulva, causing pain.
The most common symptom of yeast infections is itchy sensation within the vaginal area. This condition causes heightened redness, inflammation, and irritation of the vulva, causing pain.
Burning is a common symptom that generally occurs when someone is urinating or having intercourse. This burning phenomenon occurs due to irritation inflicted by the yeast into the vaginal mucosal tissues, which is very sensitive.
The vulva and adjacent tissues feel swollen and red due to inflammation. Swelling also makes the tissues very sensitive and painful to the infection.
Since the infection causes irritation in the vaginal tissues, coitus can become painful or even cause pain while intercourse, which again causes more distress along with the infection.
Ayurvedic treatment for yeast infections focuses on balancing the body's internal environment, detoxification, and using natural remedies to support the healing process.
Ayurveda recommends several herbs and natural substances to address yeast infections. These herbs are known for their antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting properties:
Neem (Azadirachta indica): Neem is one of the most famous antifungals in Ayurveda. It kills the yeast and prevents overgrowth, thus decreasing pruritus and discharge.
Turmeric (Curcuma longa): This anti-inflammatory and antifungal herb is very potent in fighting infection and reducing swelling. It is an excellent soothing herb for burning and irritation.
Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis): Aloe vera gel, applied externally, can cool the skin, relieve itching, and reduce inflammation. Its natural antifungal properties help tackle the yeast, while its cooling effect provides immediate relief.
Triphala: Triphala is an Ayurvedic preparation that supports digestion and detoxifies, helping eliminate toxins in the body that might be causing the infection, thereby preventing it from recurring.
Diet is an important constituent of the healing process as envisioned in Ayurveda. For any yeast infection, diet advice would invariably be in the form of a Pitta-pacifying diet, which is anti-inflammatory in its approach, thus maintaining equilibrium. General dietary tips include:
Avoid Refined Sugars and Processed Foods: Candida feeds on sugar; hence, a reduction in or complete avoidance of refined sugars and processed foods might make it difficult for the yeast to grow because it would be starved and its growth would decline, hence permitting the symptoms of the infection to subside.
Include Probiotics: Foods high in probiotics, including yoghurt and kefir, also have fermented vegetables that will implant useful bacteria into the intestines to help prevent the yeast from over-germinating in intestinal and vaginal areas.
Stay Hydrated: One of the ways to flush out toxins through the body is to drink a lot of water. Drinking water also supports the health of the immune system. In addition, more fluids in the body maintain the balance; this helps keep the vaginal flora healthy.
Eat Fresh, Whole Foods: A diet rich in vegetables, whole grains, and legumes is supportive of the whole digestive system and immune system, making it harder for infections to occur. Few of these foods tend to cause blood sugar levels to go up, further making it less likely to cause excessive yeast growth.
Hygiene: Good hygiene would prevent yeast infections. Wearing loose-fitting cotton underwear allows proper ventilation and reduces the buildup of moisture, which is something that fosters the growth of yeast. Apart from this, avoiding tight clothing and keeping the genital area clean helps to keep it moist and free from infections.
Yoga and Meditation: This is one of the common causes of repeated yeast infections, and regularly doing yoga and meditation works to reduce the frequency of stress. Keeping a peaceful mind balances hormones, which in turn helps maintain the health of the vagina.
Pranayama (Breathing Exercises): Pranayama, or deep breathing exercises, helps to regulate the nervous system and reduces stress. These exercises improve oxygen flow to the body, promoting overall health and strengthening the immune system, which helps ward off infections.
Ayurvedic detox therapies, known as Panchakarma, are used to cleanse the body of accumulated toxins (Ama) that may contribute to infections.
Basti (Enema): Basti treatment cleans the colon by removing noxious agents and re-establishes the balance of doshas. Having a healthy digestive system is to not come up with recurring yeast infections because if your digestive system is vitiated, you tend to get more overload of Candida.
Virechana (Purgation): Virechana Ayurvedic detoxification treatment purifies the body when it removes noxious agents from the liver and digestive system. In cleansing the body of these toxins, Virechana helps regain as well as maintain equilibrium and boost the body's resistance power.
Ayurveda emphasises the importance of emotional and mental health in managing and preventing physical ailments like yeast infections.
Meditation and Mindfulness: Regular meditation and mindfulness techniques can help reduce stress, which is a known trigger for yeast infections. By calming the mind, these practices promote hormonal balance and strengthen the immune system, reducing the likelihood of infections.
Ayurvedic Counselling: Ayurvedic counselling shall help you determine psychological factors causing stress and guide you to balance your mental health. It ensures the mind also works in coordination with the body, which would not allow infections as frequently or severely.
At Jiva Ayurveda, we provide treatment according to the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda which also deals with the root cause of your health concern. Our team of professional doctors uses medicines along with diet and lifestyle changes to restore your health. Whether you're addressing chronic diseases like diabetes, digestive issues, or stress, or looking to improve your overall well-being, Jiva Ayurveda provides natural, effective solutions tailored to your unique constitution.
A healthy diet and lifestyle are critical to preventing yeast infections and supporting overall health.
Balanced Diet: Probiotic-rich foods like yoghurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables create a healthy balance of bacteria in the gut and vaginal canal, which prevent overgrowth of yeast and maintain proper immune function.
Exercise: It is habitual exercise that reasserts the growth of the immune system as well as raises its ability to fight infections. Moreover, exercises help reduce stress, which may prevent infections due to hormonal imbalances.
Hydration: Water helps in removing toxins from the body by promoting its natural detoxification and maintaining healthy vaginal flora without infections.
Yes, natural remedies like neem, turmeric, and aloe vera, combined with proper diet and hygiene, can help treat yeast infections.
You can prevent yeast infections by maintaining good hygiene, eating a balanced diet, avoiding sugar, and wearing breathable clothing.
A vaginal yeast infection is a fungal infection caused by the overgrowth of Candida yeast, leading to symptoms like itching, discharge, and irritation.
Home remedies include applying aloe vera, consuming probiotics, and avoiding refined sugars to starve the yeast.
Sexual activity can introduce bacteria or disrupt vaginal pH, potentially leading to yeast infections.
Yes, men can also develop yeast infections, particularly on the penis, which may require antifungal treatment.
If left untreated, a yeast infection can worsen, leading to severe symptoms and discomfort.
Apply a thin layer of Candid B cream to the affected area 2-3 times daily, following your healthcare provider's instructions.
Yes, antibiotics can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in your body, leading to an overgrowth of Candida yeast and resulting in a yeast infection.
With proper treatment, mild yeast infections usually resolve within 3-7 days. More severe or recurrent infections may take longer to heal.
Yes, a yeast infection can cause inflammation around the vaginal area, which may result in a burning sensation during urination.
