Candida, or yeast infections, are acute or chronic infections of the skin and mucous membranes. 75% of women may experience an occurrence of vaginal candidiasis over the course of their lifetime.
Candidiasis can affect a range of areas including different areas of the skin and its folds. It can also appear in the nails, mouth, some parts of the digestive system, the bladder or genitals, and even the heart valves.
In this article, we’re going to share everything you need to know about this condition. We’ll also offer you some natural alternatives to help you treat candida.
Causes of candida
Candidiasis are caused by a kind of fungus called Candida. This is normally found among the common flora of the mouth, the intestine, the vagina and in people with immune system imbalances. Also, its presence is more common among people with weak defenses, people with diabetes and even pregnant women.
The infection can also be caused by the fungi that live with us or can be caught from an infected catheter or other medical items. Candida is the fourth most commonly caught infection during normal hospital visits.
Another way it can arise is as a result of incorrectly cleaning the anus after defecation. If women clean from back to front, they can bring the germs from the perianal region towards the vagina, which is by no means beneficial.
Symptoms of candida
The symptoms depend on the location. It shows up as creamy, whitish patches, at the back of the tongue, in the gum or genital mucous membranes, or on the roof of the mouth.
When these patches come off, they leave a red, congested membrane. These infections can also manifest as a red, smooth, shiny and painful tongue, or as burning or pain if it is in the vaginal area. These symptoms are common and can be accompanied by pain during urination (dysuria) or during sex (dyspareunia).
When candida arises in the vagina, it causes reddening and swelling of the minor labia. This can spread to the major labia, accompanied by itching and burning.
It also shows in the vaginal discharge, which is typically creamy like cheese and odorless. The symptoms of candida can worsen the days before menstruation. This conditions also affects the masculine external genitals.
Natural remedies to treat candida
Candida fungal infections are a common problem for the majority of women. Fortunately, thanks to natural medicine, we can achieve great results when treating them.
1. Garlic
Garlic is a great remedy due to its excellent antiseptic, fungicidal, antibacterial, antioxidant and cleansing properties. Its allicin content acts against thousands of viruses and bacteria. This natural remedy is a great help for relieving the symptoms of candida.
Ingredients:
- 1 garlic clove
- 1 cup of water (250 ml)
Preparation:
- Blend the garlic with the cup of water and strain it.
- It is recommended to drink this preparation twice a day, and you can also apply it directly to the affected area.
2. Chamomile
Thanks to its excellent anti-inflammatory, anti-allergenic and antibacterial properties, this natural remedy is very beneficial for curing the fungi caused by a candida infection.
Ingredients:
- 10 chamomile flowers
- 2 tbsp. of horsetail (30 g)
- 4 cups of water (1 liter)
Preparation:
- Put all the ingredients in a pan and boil for 10 minutes.
- Leave it to stand for 15 minutes and then strain it.
- Wash the affected area twice a day with this infusion until the symptoms disappear.
3. Sage
This plant is of great help for many diseases that attack humans. Thanks to its antibacterial, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, it offers effective benefits for treating and curing the symptoms of candida.
Ingredients:
- 3 tbsp. of sage (45 g)
- 2 tbsp. of chamomile (30 g)
- 4 cups of water (1 liter)
Preparation:
- Heat the water in a pan.
- After 5 minutes add the sage and chamomile.
- When it reaches boiling point, leave it boiling for 10 more minutes then take it off the heat.
- Once it’s tepid, use it to wash the affected area three times a day.
4. Baking soda
This natural remedy has always been used by people to treat different problems. Thanks to its antiseptic, antifungal and alkaline properties, it is of great help for getting rid of skin infections and fungi.
Ingredients:
- 4 tbsp. of baking soda (36 g)
- 1 cup of water (250 ml)
Preparation:
- Dissolve the baking soda in the water and apply this mixture to the area affected by the fungus.
- Repeat three times a day for a week, or until the symptoms disappear.
Skin infections are unpleasant due to their ugly appearance. To avoid catching them, it is essential to use antibacterial products when you go to a hospital or are near people who have this kind of condition to prevent infection.
Via: Top10HomeRemedies | Dr.Scabies
