Why does it always scratch and itch? Why does the area around look reddish? You might wonder. Somebody tells you that you have yeast infection and should apply such and such cream. You follow your friend’s advice and buy the cream from the nearby drug store. It’s gone in a few days! You are amazed.

Some time passes by and the red patch along with itching and scratching reappears. You simply walk down the road to the drug store and buy the cream. After all it does not cost much. Only when it starts recurring again and again that you take notice. It not only itches, you also have a burning sensation which is very uncomfortable to say the least. You start looking for permanent remedies for yeast infection. Who knows, by this time, it is too late! It may be that the external infection has spread internally and has even reached your blood stream.

In the medical terminology yeast infection is known as Candidiasis. It is also known as Candidiosis, Moniliasis and Odiomycosis. It is a fungal infection of Candida species, the most common being Candida albicans. It grows on moist and warm part of the body such as between the toes, in the genital areas, under the breast, in the armpit, in the mouth etc. Most of them are superficial and treatable. But yeast infection can also be systematic and very much fatal.

Yeast and other fungus are present in every human being. But these are kept under control by other good bacteria (probiotics) present in the body. A strong immune system, right balance in pH factor (acid/alkaline factor) also stops the growth of the fungus. When the immune system becomes weak or the pH factor becomes unbalanced or the beneficial bacteria gets killed due to over use of antibiotics, the yeast present in the body starts multiplying and manifest itself as red patches in body parts conductive to their growth.

Medicine does check the infection. Some times antibiotics have to be taken. However, if the inherent cause of the yeast infection is not removed, the infection can recur again and again. Leading a healthy life and eating a balanced diet allows natural cure for yeast infection. Good hygiene cannot be stressed enough. Balanced diet will build a sound immunity system and will keep pH factor balanced. So to avoid yeast infection:
    Keep your self clean, especially in and around the places which are prone to the infection.
    Wash vaginal area with medicated douche.
    Always were clean undergarment washed with detergent. Use cotton crotch to promote air circulation.
    Do not wear tight dresses for extended period of time.
    Avoid animal fats and byproducts.
    Avoid excessive grain, sugar and dietary yeast.
    Avoid processed food.
    Have a lot of raw vegetable, nuts and fruits.

These and other basic rules of healthy living should take care of the immunity system and pH factor. Enough sleep and moderate exercise should speed up natural cure, though some form of medicines will definitely be required.

There are plenty of yeast infection medicines in the market, some to be taken orally, and others have to be applied locally. Some are based on traditional wisdom handed down for generations, some are herbal, and others are homeopathic. For those who do not believe in alternate medicines there are many allopathic over the counter dugs as well as prescription drugs. You are actually spoilt for choice. But it is always wise to consult a doctor because there are other bacterial infections such as bacterial vaginosis which have more or less same symptoms.

Following are some of the natural remedies and medicines which can be used effectively:
     Probiotics are available both as an oral supplements as well as vaginal suppositories.
    Boric acid suppositories are also used as natural remedies because of its antifungal and antiseptic properties. But it should be used with caution as it is toxic in nature.
    Tree tea oil used locally is also good natural remedies.
    Plain sugar free yoghurt is a good natural remedy because of the presence of good bacteria in it. Home made yoghurt should be a part of the everyday diet. It can also be used externally with effective results.
    Garlic is an enemy of yeast and gives instant relief. Shaklee Garlic Tabs used orally as well as by inserting inside the vagina gives quick relief.
    Apple cider vinegar, not the plain white vinegar, gives get relief. For best results mix it with the bath water.

But this should no way be a substitute for a doctor’s advice, especially it is your first infection or your immune system is down for some reason or the other. Go and see a doctor.