Effective Natural Treatment for a Yeast Infection

Written by Institute for Natural Medicine Staff

Medically Reviewed by Signe Poquette, ND

Published October 3, 2025
Last Updated October 3, 2025

Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), commonly known as a vaginal yeast infection, is a fungal overgrowth that occurs in or around the vagina.¹ The infection is most often caused by Candida albicans, though non-albicans species such as Candida glabrata, Candida tropicalis, and Candida parapsilosis may also be responsible.²

Excessive Candida growth triggers inflammation, which can lead to pain, burning, itching, and redness near the labia or other parts of the vagina.¹ Curd-like discharge, painful urination, and pain during sex are often reported with vaginal candidiasis.³

What causes yeast infections?

Most women experience at least one yeast infection in their lifetime.⁴ Nearly half of all women will have two or more infections, while an estimated five to eight percent struggle with recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis (RVVC). RVVC is defined as four or more yeast infections in a year.³

“Yeast overgrowth is often triggered by antibiotic use, hormonal changes, poorly controlled diabetes, high-sugar diets, and excess moisture from tight clothing,” says Sarah Bonza, MD, MPH, FAAFP, an Ohio-based women’s health expert and founder of Bonza Health. “Anything that disrupts the vaginal microbiome, such as douching or scented products, can [trigger yeast growth].”

Sex and pregnancy also affect the vaginal microbiome, as well as taking oral contraceptives or over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal medicines. A history of bacterial vaginosis (BV) and allergic diseases may increase the risk of yeast infections.¹

Candida and the vaginal microbiome

The vagina is home to a healthy balance of microorganisms—predominantly bacterial microbes such as Lactobacilli. Yeast, like Candida, can colonize the vagina as well, but in smaller amounts than bacteria.¹ The fungal components of the vaginal microbiome are known as the mycobiota.²

Microbes in the vagina usually coexist symbiotically.²^,⁴ Lactobacillus produces lactic acid, which helps maintain pH levels and prevents overgrowth of harmful bacteria and fungi.¹

Several factors and conditions can interfere with vaginal flora, shifting the vaginal microbiome from a balanced (eubiotic) state to an imbalanced (dysbiotic) state. These disruptions may cause an overgrowth of yeast, increasing the risk of fungal infections.¹

Bacterial vaginosis and urinary tract infections

Disruptions to the vaginal microbiome can also lead to bacterial infections, like BV and urinary tract infections (UTIs).²^,⁵ Each has different causes, symptoms, and treatments.

“BV produces thin, gray, or white discharge with a strong fishy odor,” explains Dr. Bonza, “while UTIs are marked by pelvic pain, frequent and urgent urination, and little or no vaginal discharge.”

If you’re unsure whether you have a yeast infection or a bacterial infection, it’s best to schedule an appointment with a medical provider. A pelvic examination will detect signs of Candida, such as dry, white spots on the vaginal walls, white discharge, and swelling or redness in the vaginal area.⁴

Rx and OTC antifungal medications

A mild yeast infection can typically be treated at home with OTC creams or suppositories, unless one or more of the following apply⁴:

It’s your first yeast infection
Your symptoms are severe
You’re pregnant or could soon become pregnant
You could have a sexually transmitted infection
You have a weakened immune system
You’re not sure if you have a vaginal yeast infection or another type of infection

Some symptoms may require prescription antifungal medication.⁴ “My preferred treatments include FDA–approved antifungal medications like oral fluconazole or vaginal suppositories such as miconazole, clotrimazole, or terconazole,” says Dr. Bonza.

Although conventional antifungal medications can effectively treat yeast infections in many cases, an integrative approach may be preferred with chronic infections, when treating non-albicans Candida species, or to avoid the side effects of topical or oral medications. Nausea, abdominal pain, and headaches have been reported with oral antifungal use, while burning, itching, and irritation are common side effects of antifungal creams.⁶

How to use boric acid for a yeast infection

clear supplement capsules beside glass jar

Boric acid is a safe and effective alternative to topical and oral antifungal medications, but it should be avoided if you are pregnant, could soon become pregnant, or breastfeeding.⁶

“My favorite remedy for simple or single yeast infections is topical boric acid,” says Lorilee Schoenbeck, ND, founder of Mountain View Natural Medicine in Colchester, Vermont. “This can be most [economical] by getting a bottle of boric acid powder from the pharmacy. It’s an OTC remedy, not requiring a prescription. If the pharmacy doesn’t sell empty ‘00’ capsules, they are usually available at a local health food store. Fill a capsule with boric acid, then insert one as a vaginal suppository nightly for five nights. Health food stores may also have boric acid vaginal suppositories.”

Prefilled suppositories are also available at the pharmacy. For a 600 mg dose, some recommendations indicate a two-week course.⁶

More natural treatments for itching, irritation, and discharge

Some natural remedies for yeast infections are standalone treatments, while others can be used in addition to conventional antifungals.

Probiotics

Studies have found that Lactobacillus probiotics alleviate yeast infection symptoms when used alongside standard antifungal medications.⁶ However, the effectiveness of using probiotics as a sole treatment for yeast infections is unclear.¹ A review of 10 human trials found that probiotic supplements and suppositories enhanced short-term effectiveness of conventional antifungal therapy when taken before, during, or after treatment. Higher-quality evidence is needed.³

Some clinical research suggests that probiotic yeasts, such as Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Saccharomyces boulardii, may be beneficial in managing Candida infections.⁶^,⁷

One small preliminary study of 40 women with uncomplicated yeast infections found that combining clotrimazole with Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Lactobacillus acidophilus GLA–14, and melatonin could more effectively treat vaginal infections than clotrimazole alone. The combined approach also reduced recurrence rates and better restored vaginal flora.⁸

Taking antifungals and oral probiotics during antibiotic therapy may help prevent future fungal infections, as antibiotic use is a risk factor for Candida overgrowth.¹ Avoid taking antibiotics at the same time as probiotics, as this may reduce probiotic effectiveness.³

Although probiotics appear to be safe for women with vaginal infections, they may not be suitable for everyone.¹^,³ Talk to your doctor before using probiotics for a yeast infection if you have a weakened immune system.⁸

Yogurt and honey

When used intravaginally, a mixture of (likely plain) yogurt and bees’ honey may work as well as some topical antifungal medications in eliminating excess yeast. A small study involving 129 pregnant women with yeast infections found the combination more effective than tioconazole, an OTC antifungal.⁹

Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar’s organic acids and phenolic compounds appear to have antifungal properties against Candida albicans in vitro.¹⁰^,¹¹ However, human studies are lacking. It’s unclear whether drinking apple cider vinegar, applying a diluted mixture to the vaginal area, or soaking in an apple cider vinegar bath eases yeast infection symptoms without the risk of irritation.

Hydrogen peroxide

Lactobacilli produce antimicrobial substances, including hydrogen peroxide, lactic acid, and bacteriocins.¹,² As these byproducts are toxic to Candida, they help prevent fungal overgrowth in the vagina.³

Certain strains of Lactobacillus probiotics may boost natural production of hydrogen peroxide¹²:

Lactobacillus acidophilus
Lactobacillus crispatus
Lactobacillus vaginalis

There is no credible human research to support the use of household hydrogen peroxide in treating yeast infections.

Garlic

Preliminary research has shown that garlic extract is effective against Candida albicans in vitro.¹³ In a randomized clinical trial of 64 women with yeast infections, a vaginal cream containing garlic and thyme worked as well as clotrimazole.¹⁴

Another small clinical trial suggests that products containing garlic may be a potential alternative to fluconazole, a commonly prescribed medication for yeast infections.¹⁵ However, more research is needed.

Essential oils

Many essential oils with antifungal properties have shown protective benefits against Candida in laboratory studies¹⁶:

Oregano oil (or oil of oregano, a diluted form of the oil)
Thyme oil
Clove oil
Rosemary oil
Clary sage
Coriander oil
Tea tree oil

According to lab data, Candida albicans may be more sensitive to tea tree oil and oregano essential oil than to antifungal medications like clotrimazole. Mint, basil, lavender, and winter savory have also been shown to inhibit yeast growth and activity.¹⁷

A preliminary study found that a tea tree oil suppository safely and effectively eliminated a yeast infection when paired with probiotics. However, larger clinical trials are needed.¹⁸

Pure vs. diluted oils

Tea tree oil is extracted from the leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia tree,¹⁸ while oregano essential oil comes from the leaves and flowering tops of wild oregano, specifically Origanum vulgare.¹⁶ Oil of oregano is typically a blend of oregano leaves and a carrier such as coconut oil.

Essential oils, especially tea tree oil, are potent. Never apply oils directly to the skin without diluting them first. The same goes for inserting essential oils into the vagina. Coconut oil, avocado oil, vegetable oil, and aloe vera gel can be used as carriers.¹⁹

Prefilled suppositories containing diluted tea tree oil can be used intravaginally to treat a yeast infection. Suppositories are available at many health food stores.

Proper prevention and cleaning tips

Yeast thrives in warm, humid environments. Douching, sex, antibiotic use, high glucose levels (as with diabetes), oral contraceptives, pregnancy, and hormone replacement therapies may predispose some women to excessive fungal growth or aggravate a current yeast infection.¹

Lifestyle modifications can help reduce the risk of future yeast infections, notes Dr. Bonza. “Wearing breathable underwear, avoiding douching, controlling blood sugar, and focusing on a whole food, plant-based diet helps prevent recurrence.”

To manage discharge during treatment, keep the vaginal area clean and dry. Rinse genitals with water only, and avoid using soap or feminine hygiene products.⁴

Natural remedies for frequent yeast infections

“If vaginal yeast infections are a recurrent problem, there’s probably an ‘intestinal reservoir’ of candida overgrowth,” explains Dr. Schoenbeck. “Note that this isn’t the same thing as systemic candida, which is very rare.”

For women who experience ongoing infections, Dr. Schoenbeck typically recommends a combined approach that includes antifungal supplements along with dietary and lifestyle modifications.

“Because yeast loves sugar, I recommend a diet low in simple carbohydrates for a month, while taking oral ‘anti-candidal’ supplements,” she says. “The best of these [supplements] contain ingredients like berberine, grapefruit extract, and undecylenic acid. Do this while making sure to eliminate other yeast sources: change out of bathing and gym suits right away, and wear loose, cotton underwear.”

Following these steps can make it easier to manage recurring yeast infections and protect against future ones.

Footnotes

1
Valentine M, Wilson D, Gresnigt MS, Hube B. Vaginal Candida albicans infections: host-pathogen-microbiome interactions. FEMS Microbiol Rev. 2025;49:fuaf013. https://doi.org/10.1093/femsre/fuaf013
2
Kalia N, Singh J, Kaur M. Microbiota in vaginal health and pathogenesis of recurrent vulvovaginal infections: a critical review. Ann Clin Microbiol Antimicrob. 2020;19(1):5. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12941-020-0347-4
3
Xie HY, Feng D, Wei DM, et al. Probiotics for vulvovaginal candidiasis in non-pregnant women. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2017;11(11):CD010496. https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.cd010496.pub2
4
Vaginal Yeast Infection. MedlinePlus. National Library of Medicine. Reviewed July 12, 2023. Accessed August 14, 2025. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/001511.htm
5
Stapleton AE. The vaginal microbiota and urinary tract infection. Microbiol Spectr. 2016;4(6):10.1128/microbiolspec.UTI-0025-2016. https://doi.org/10.1128/microbiolspec.UTI-0025-2016
6
Satora M, Grunwald A, Zaremba B, et al. Treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis—an overview of guidelines and the latest treatment methods. J Clin Med. 2023;12(16):5376. Published 2023 Aug 18. https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm12165376
7
Kunyeit L, Ka AA, Rao RP. Application of probiotic yeasts on Candida species associated infection. J Fungi (Basel). 2020;6(4):189. Published 2020 Sep 25. https://doi.org/10.3390/jof6040189
8
Stabile G, Gentile RM, Carlucci S, Restaino S, De Seta F. A new therapy for uncomplicated vulvovaginal candidiasis and its impact on vaginal flora. Healthcare (Basel). 2021;9(11):1555. Published 2021 Nov 16. https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare9111555
9
Abdelmonem AM, Rasheed SM, Mohamed ASh. Bee-honey and yogurt: a novel mixture for treating patients with vulvovaginal candidiasis during pregnancy. Arch Gynecol Obstet. 2012 Jul;286(1):109-14. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00404-012-2242-5
10
Ousaaid D, Laaroussi H, Bakour M, Ennaji H, Lyoussi B, El Arabi I. Antifungal and antibacterial activities of apple vinegar of different cultivars. Int J Microbiol. 2021;2021:1-6. https://doi.org/10.1155/2021/6087671
11
Yagnik D, Serafin V, J Shah A. Antimicrobial activity of apple cider vinegar against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans; downregulating cytokine and microbial protein expression. Sci Rep. 2018;8(1):1732. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-017-18618-x
12
Xie HY, Feng D, Wei DM, Mei L, Chen H, Wang X, Fang F. Probiotics for vulvovaginal candidiasis in non-pregnant women. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2017 Nov 23;11(11):CD010496. https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD010496.pub2
13
Said MM, Watson C, Grando D. Garlic alters the expression of putative virulence factor genes SIR2 and ECE1 in vulvovaginal C. albicans isolates. Sci Rep. 2020;10(1):3615. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-020-60178-0
14
Bahadoran P, Rokni FK, Fahami F. Investigating the therapeutic effect of vaginal cream containing garlic and thyme compared to clotrimazole cream for the treatment of mycotic vaginitis. Iran J Nurs Midwifery Res. 2010;15(Suppl 1):343-349. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22069409
15
Ebrahimy F, Dolatian M, Moatar F, Majd HA. Comparison of the therapeutic effects of Garcin(®) and fluconazole on Candida vaginitis. Singapore Med J. 2015;56(10):567-572. https://doi.org/10.11622/smedj.2015153
16
Swamy MK, Akhtar MS, Sinniah UR. Antimicrobial properties of plant essential oils against human pathogens and their mode of action: an updated review. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2016;2016:3012462. https://doi.org/10.1155/2016/3012462
17
Bona E, Cantamessa S, Pavan M, et al. Sensitivity of Candida albicans to essential oils: are they an alternative to antifungal agents?. J Appl Microbiol. 2016;121(6):1530-1545. https://doi.org/10.1111/jam.13282
18
Di Vito M, Fracchiolla G, Mattarelli P, Modesto M, Tamburro A, et al. Probiotic and tea tree oil treatments improve therapy of vaginal candidiasis: a preliminary clinical study. Med J Obstet Gynecol. 2016;4(4): 1090. https://ricerca.uniba.it/bitstream/11586/185012/1/obstetrics-4-1090.pdf
19
Farrar AJ, Farrar FC. Clinical aromatherapy. Nurs Clin North Am. 2020;55(4):489-504. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cnur.2020.06.015

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