Yeast Infections

WHAT IS IT AND WHAT CAUSES IT?

Yeast infections are caused by the rampant growth of a fungus in and around the vagina. Although the fungus is a normal inhabitant, certain environmental factors, such as hormone imbalance and antibiotics, may trigger its uncontrolled growth. Yeast infections are characterized by an itching, burning sensation with a smelly discharge.

WHEN SHOULD YOU SEE A DOCTOR?

If self-treatment is not working or you have had recurrent yeast infections, see a doctor.

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO IN DAILY LIFE?

• Try to determine conditions that trigger the infections, such as preexisting diabetes. Consult with your doctor to see if you are taking too much antibiotics.
• Change your cotton underwear often, and disinfect the used underwear and towels. Or don't wear undwear at all becasue yeast loves warm and moist places.
• Increase water intake.
• If you have a partner, both of you need to clean the genital area before sex. After that you should urinate to dilute the basicity of semen.

WHAT SHOULDN'T YOU DO?

• Don't eat too much sugar or spicy food.
• Don't drink alcohol.

Folk Remedies

• Wash with vinegar and prickly ash peel:

  Ingredients: 5 prickly ash peel, 150 ml dark rice vinegar, 500 ml water.

  Procedure: After boiling wait until cool, then wash the genital area every night. Do a skin test first. If you have an allergic reaction, stop.

• Apply plain yogurt in and around your vagina. Wash thoroughly after 20 minutes. Repeat twice a day for a week. Yogurt can restrain yeast overgrowth.

Food Therapy

• Eat garlic salad: Smash a clove of garlic. Mix with 1/4 tsp. and 1 Tbs. olive iol. Use as salad dressing on your favorite vegetables. Eat twice a day. If stomach feels uncomfortable, discontinue use.
• Eat 5 Tbs. plain yogurt, three times a day.

Chinese Herbs

• Wash with herb decoction:

  Ingredients: 1/2 oz. bitter ginseng, 1/2 oz. cnidium fruit, 1/2 oz. smilax glabra rhizome, 1/4 oz. phellodendron bark, 1/4 oz. prickly ash peel.

  Procedure: Add ingredients to 4 cups of water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes. Wait until cool and wash your genital area once a day. Do a skin test first. If you have an allergic reaction, discontinue use.