Today, more and more health-conscious people are starting to use coconut oil, especially for its natural healing properties. But, what not many people know about coconut oil is its ability to fight candida yeast infection.
Yeast infection is caused when there is an imbalance in your immune system, an imbalance in your hormones, lack of sleep, stress, antibiotic overuse, pregnancy, and unregulated diabetes.
The symptoms of a yeast infection include itchiness, irritation, unusual and foul vaginal discharge, swelling around the vagina, and painful intercourse.
Yeast infections usually require adequate medical treatment, but it can be also relieved with the help of some home remedies such as coconut oil.
Researchers at Tufts University conducted a new study, which showed that coconut oil is highly effective at regulating the overgrowth of the opportunistic fungal pathogen Candida albicans.
Published in the American Society for Microbiology’s journal mSphere, the study classified Candida Albicans as the most common human pathogen, with a mortality rate of about 40 percent when causing systemic infections.
Namely, the two ingredients responsible for combating Candida albicans are lauric acid and caprylic acid. They are responsible for coconut oil’s antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal activity, which work to alleviate the fungal infection.
Taking a dosage of 3 tablespoons organic extra virgin coconut oil on a daily basis has shown positive results in alleviating yeast infections. Depending on the severity of the infection, in some cases, the infection has been known to be alleviated in a matter of hours.
Coconut oil kills the yeast by breaking down the yeast cells and inhibiting their growth and multiplication. Plus, it boosts the immune system and improves the natural, self-healing abilities of the body. Also, when used topically, coconut oil forms a protective layer that prevents further damage and irritation to the skin.
How to treat yeast infections with Coconut oil
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Coconut oil in food
As a way to fight yeast infections, you can incorporate coconut oil into your diet.
- Eat a teaspoon of coconut oil before each meal.
- Add a teaspoon to coffee.
- Replace coconut oil for other cooking oils as it doesn’t break down into unhealthy trans-fats when cooked.
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Pure coconut oil
Coconut oil also can be applied directly to the skin. Unlike prescribed and over-the-counter creams, coconut oil doesn’t stain and it doesn’t cause irritation.
- First, clean and dry the affected area thoroughly.
- Apply a thin layer of coconut oil to the affected area.
- Repeat this procedure 2-3 times daily until yeast infection is gone.
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Coconut oil douche
- Combine 3-4 tablespoons of organic extra virgin coconut oil and 2 quarts of warm distilled water.
- Douche with the solution.
- Repeat daily until yeast infection is gone.
- Alternately, use a tampon dipped in organic extra virgin coconut oil in place of the douche.
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Coconut oil capsule
You can replace coconut oil with coconut oil capsules. The body heat will melt down the capsule and is best used before going to sleep. To prevent a leakage and collect the melted capsule, you may want to wear a pad in your underwear. Use 2-3 capsules nightly until yeast infection is completely gone.
Coconut oil is a great remedy for yeast overgrowth. So, if you’re suffering from yeast infection, applying some of these tips will help you alleviate many of the symptoms such as itchiness, irritation, vaginal discharge, swelling around the vagina, and odor.
