Yeast Infection

Definition

Yeast is defined as any of several unicellular fungi of the genus Saccharomyces, which reproduce by budding. They are capable of fermenting carbohydrates.

When a fungus such as Candida Albicans multiplies in the body, particularly in the vagina, the result is a yeast infection.
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Causes

Yeast infections are a common cause of vaginitis.

Almost every woman will have a yeast infection sometime in her life, and it is common during pregnancy when the acidity and sugar content of a woman's vaginal secretions are altered. Using oral contraceptives can also lead to the development of a yeast infection. Fungi such as Candida albicans thrive in the presence of sugar, women with diabetes will be more susceptible to yeast infections. Those taking antibiotics may develop a yeast infection since antibiotics generally destroy the "good" bacteria in the body, upsetting the vaginal environment.
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Symptoms

Symptoms include vaginal burning, itching, and discharge. The skin around the vagina may become sore and appear red.
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Nutrients

Garlic capsules, 2 capsules with meals (or take 2 garlic-parsley capsules), helps inhibit infecting organisms. Vitamin C, 2,000-5,000 mg. per day, improves immunity. Yeast-Gard vaginal suppositories, use as directed on the label, helps in soothing the vagina and destroys the yeast organism or fungus. Vitamin A, 50,000 IU per day, is a powerful free radical scavenger that aids vaginal healing. Vitamin E, 400 IU per day. Acidophilus, taken as directed on the label, restores normal vaginal bacterial balance. Protein (free form amino acids), taken as directed on the label, is needed for repair of tissue. Vitamin B complex (yeast free), 100 mg. per day (Candidiasis, a type of yeast infection results in vitamin B deficiency). Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), 50 mg. 3 times per day. Vitamin D plus calcium and magnesium, taken as directed on the label (women need extra amounts of nutrients when the body fights infection.)
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Herbs

Ash, prickly
Garlic capsules
Goldenseal (douche)
Marigold, pot
Mugwort
Pau d'arco
Tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia)

Recommendations

Include yogurt and soured products in the diet. Yogurt and soured products contain microorganisms called lactobacilli, normally present in the bowel and vagina, which actually destroy the fungus. Because the fungus multiplies in a sugary environment, reducing your intake of refined foods can help alleviate symptoms.
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Suggestions

Keep the vagina clean and dry. To alleviate itching, open a vitamin E capsule and apply to the irritated area or apply an enzyme cream. Acidophilus, odorless garlic or the juice of fresh garlic and water may be used as a douche. Alternate douching with acidophilus, it will help restore the normal balance of the bowel and vagina. Open two capsules of acidophilus and add them to either 1 quart of warm water or to plain yogurt. Apple cider vinegar is preferable to over-the-counter products for douching. Wear cotton underwear for free circulation of air.
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Bibliography

The Nature Doctor, by Dr. H.C.A. Vogel; Keats Publishing, Inc., 27 Pine Street (Box 876) New Canaan, CT. 06840-0876. Copyright Verlag A. Vogel, Teufen (AR) Switzerland 1952, 1991

Earl Mindell's Herb Bible, by Earl Mindell, R.Ph., Ph.D., Simon & Schuster/Fireside, Rockefeller Center 1230 Avenue of the Americas, New York, New York 10020

The Yoga of Herbs, by Dr. David Frawley & Dr. Vasant Lad, Lotus Press, Twin Lakes, Wisconsin, Second edition, 1988.

Prescription for Nutritional Healing, by James F. Balch, M.D. and Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C., Avery Publishing Group, Inc., Garden City Park, NY

Yeast Infection

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