In this article, we explore how to use coconut oil for treating yeast infection and the risks and precautions associated with it. Scroll down to find out.
How Does Coconut Oil Work?
Coconut oil is derived from the dried kernels of coconut. It contains medium-chain fatty acids and is known to possess a number of health benefits. One such beneficial property of coconut oil is its antimicrobial nature. Many studies conducted for determining the antifungal nature of coconut oil against Candida and other fungal species showed positive results. A laboratory study conducted in 2007 concluded that coconut oil was active against Candida species at 100% concentration. In fact, less coconut oil was needed to prevent further growth of the yeast as compared to fluconazole, which is an antifungal medication (1). Another study carried out in 2012 showed that the antifungal properties of coconut oil were effective against C. albicans (2). A canine study conducted in 2014 using coconut oil also produced similar results. Around 20 dogs were treated with a mixture of essential oils and coconut oil. The treatment produced good clinical outcome against a yeast called Malassezia pachydermatis (3). However, more research is needed to find out the short-term as well as long-term effectiveness of coconut oil against candida. The following are some easy ways to use coconut oil to deal with different types of candidiasis (yeast infections).
How To Use Coconut Oil For A Yeast Infection?
1. Coconut Oil For Yeast Infection On The Skin
You Will Need Organic or pure coconut oil (as required) What You Have To Do How Often You Should Do This You can do this 2-3 times daily.
2. Coconut Oil For Yeast Infection In The Mouth
You Will Need 1 tablespoon of pure coconut oil What You Have To Do How Often You Should Do This You can do this once every morning, preferably before brushing your teeth.
3. Coconut Oil For Vaginal Infections
You Will Need
Pure coconut oil (as required) A tampon
What You Have To Do How Often You Should Do This You can do this once every alternate day for up to one week. Coconut oil can work wonders in battling a yeast infection. While this remedy is comparatively safe and does not have a lot of side effects, there may be a few risks associated with its use.
Risks And Precautions
Avoid using coconut oil for treating a yeast infection if:
You are not sure that you have a yeast infection. You are taking other medications for the infection. In this case, consult a doctor before using coconut oil as an adjuvant treatment. You are allergic to coconut oil or coconut. You are suffering from recurring yeast infections.
Pregnant women should also consult their gynecologist before using coconut oil. Other than coconut oil, there are a number of other options to battle Candida and treat yeast infections.
What Are The Other Ways To Treat A Yeast Infection?
A few additional ways to treat candidiasis include:
Limit your sugar intake. This includes starchy foods that convert into sugars, such as breads, rice, and snack foods. Increased sugar intake can promote antifungal resistance in Candida (4). Consume probiotic-rich foods like yogurt (5). Your doctor may also prescribe antifungal medications and suppositories to treat a yeast infection.
What is the difference between candida and yeast infection?Candida Vs. Yeast Infection Candida is a class of microscopic fungi that consist of single oval cells and are also referred to as yeasts. A yeast infection is caused by the overgrowth of Candida in your body. Candida is a term used to describe one of over 150 species of yeast fungi. They are commonly found in the belly, mouth, and skin. Under the right conditions, these fungi can multiply in the body and trigger infections. Such infections caused by Candida are referred to as yeast infections or candidiasis. What are the types of yeast infections or candidiasis? • Oral Thrush Or Oropharyngeal Candidiasis: It is triggered by the spread of the Candida yeast in the mouth. It is commonly seen in those with a weak immune system like newborns and the elderly. White/yellow patches on the tongue, soreness in the mouth, cracking at the corners, and pain while swallowing are the symptoms of this condition (6).• Genital Yeast Infection Or Genital Candidiasis: This type of candidiasis is a result of yeast overgrowth in your vagina. It often occurs when there is a change in the pH balance down there. Diabetes, pregnancy, certain medications, lubricants, a weak immune system, and sexual intercourse can cause a genital yeast infection. The symptoms are extreme itchiness, redness, swelling, pain, and white, clumpy discharge from the vagina (7).• Diaper Rash: Diaper rashes are most often a result of leaving a soiled or wet diaper on your little one for too long. The irritated skin is at an increased risk of a yeast infection (8). It can cause the baby’s bottom to become red and sensitive and trigger the appearance of sores with a raised red border.• Invasive Candidiasis: Candida can also enter your bloodstream through medical equipment, wounds from trauma, severe burns, or surgical wounds. It can then travel to your heart, brain, blood, eyes, and bones and cause serious, life-threatening complications. When to see a doctor for a yeast infection? See a doctor immediately if you notice any symptoms of a yeast infection. In some cases, you could be suffering from something more severe, like a urinary tract infection (UTI) or a sexually transmitted infection (STI). You must also see a doctor if you are pregnant and suffering from a yeast infection. How long does coconut oil take to cure a yeast infection? Most cases of mild yeast infections ease in a few days if caught early. However, moderate to severe cases may take 1-2 weeks to clear completely and often require additional antimicrobial treatment for longer durations. Is coconut oil antifungal and antibacterial? Yes, coconut oil is both antifungal and antibacterial (9). Can blood tests detect Candida? Yes. A blood culture test is the most common way to test for Candida growth.
