Using garlic for yeast infection treatments is a very simple process. By eating a full fresh clove of garlic daily, or applying a clove of garlic directly to the infection, the fungal invasion can be cured. Consuming garlic regularly may also have a preventative effects against yeast infections.
Garlic has been used as an antibacterial and anti-fungal treatment for many years. If used in the early stages of infection, garlic can quickly clear up different types of yest infections. Raw, fresh garlic is typically hailed as the best herbal remedy for this problem. A full garlic clove can be eaten and washed down with a glass of water for a quick daily treatment.
If chewing garlic for yeast infection treatments proves to be unpleasant, it may be ground into a juice if desired. The garlic can be finely minced before being added to water or juice. It can also be quickly swallowed and followed with a quick drink to wash the taste away.
Different types of yeast infections can be relieved with garlic. Vaginal yeast infections can be treated by inserting a garlic clove, or garlic tab, directly into the vagina every few hours. To make this process more comfortable, the cloves can be wrapped in a small piece of gauze and lubricated. Inserting such a poultice overnight can help rid the body of a yeast infection quickly. One to two nights of application are typically required for a successful treatment.
For skin outbreaks, a direct application of garlic for yeast infection treatment is often recommended. This process can be a simple as rubbing the affected area gently with a fresh clove of garlic. Though this application is not conducted orally, many people still report tasting the garlic following the treatment.
People who do not enjoy the flavor of the herb may purchase supplements of garlic for yeast infection instead. The supplements should be used as directed. Some people may insert the capsules vaginally; however, many opt to take them orally with water.
Many other natural and food-based remedies can be used to treat early yeast infections as well. Plain yogurt, tea tree oil, and several different herbs can provide effective relief from a yeast infection. Like garlic, these remedies often have no side effects, are less expensive to use, and are often easier to apply than some prescription medications.
Should symptoms persist, or if severe discharge occurs, a physician should be consulted. Recurring yeast infections can be a sign of another underlying health issue. A doctor can accurately diagnose and treat yeast infections that frequently reappear.
How To Use Garlic for Yeast Infection
With the majority of women experiencing a yeast infection at some point in their lives, having a natural remedy on hand can be a necessity. Yeast infections are notoriously itchy and inconvenient, and many women find them embarrassing to discuss. If you would like to try to find a discreet and natural way to rid yourself of Candida, exploring garlic-based products or do-it-yourself mixtures is a great starting point.
Garlic Clove in Vagina
You may decide to insert the garlic clove directly into the vagina as a poultice or suppository, but it should be noted that there is a risk of burning or further irritation. The vaginal area is sensitive, and each person experiences different degrees of sensitivity based on their individual body. Some women may have no issues from a garlic clove suppository, while others find their symptoms to be worsened. If you decide to go with this route, it is smart to do a small patch test with a clove in an area around the vagina and see if any irritation occurs. In general, many garlic creams will be targeted toward external use, so you shouldn't be inserting them fully into the vagina.
If you experience irritation with garlic but still would like to try a natural remedy for your yeast infection, you can also make a mixture with tea tree oil. Tea tree oil has antifungal and antibacterial properties that make it an effective agent when combating Candida overgrowth, and it can be easily applied to the vagina after mixing it with a carrier oil. Popular carrier oils include coconut, jojoba, or olive oil; creating a mixture will reduce the chance of irritation and enhance the benefits of both oils.
Garlic for Candida
The main ingredient in garlic is a property called allicin, which has been scientifically proven to prevent the growth of Candida. Candida is the fungus responsible for yeast infections, so while it has not been determined with certainty whether garlic can clear up yeast infections on its own, it has been shown that the properties of garlic are able to prevent further growth.
Over the Counter Options
If trying natural remedies like garlic has not been effective, it may be time to try an over-the-counter treatment like Monistat. Antifungal cream treatments are known for being quick to tackle the issue, even if they can be a bit of a mess to insert. Most treatments are split into 1, 3, and 7 days, depending on the degree of the infection.
Another option is following a Candida diet, which is a series of foods aimed at combating the fungus. Garlic is a staple in the diet, along with yogurt and probiotics. Women on the diet are advised to reduce their sugar intake as well, as that can fuel the growth of Candida. No matter what method you choose, you will want to deal with it as soon as possible in order to prevent your body from being prone to reoccurring yeast infections.