11 Home Remedies for Vaginal Yeast Infections

Wondering whether household remedies like garlic, vinegar, or boric acid can ease yeast infection symptoms? Here’s a look at several at-home options and what the evidence says about their effectiveness and safety.

Home remedy options to treat yeast infections

1. Greek yogurt

Probiotics can help control an overgrowth of Candida albicans — and yogurt serves as a probiotic because it contains live bacterial strains like Lactobacillus acidophilus. These microbes support a healthy vaginal environment and may help correct imbalances that encourage yeast growth.

In one trial, a combination of yogurt and honey was reported to improve symptoms of vaginal yeast infections.

A 2017 study indicates that eating yogurt can broaden your gut microbiome, which may reduce overall yeast levels in the body. If you dislike yogurt, consider a probiotic supplement or other fermented foods containing live cultures.

For topical or internal use, choose plain Greek yogurt.

Warning: Avoid yogurts with added sugars, flavors, or fruit, since sugar can feed Candida and worsen an overgrowth.

Ways to try yogurt:

• eat it regularly
• apply it to the vulva surrounding the vaginal opening
• insert it vaginally using a clean applicator or your fingers

2. Boric acid

Boric acid has potent antiseptic properties and is sometimes used for yeast infections that resist standard treatments.

Vaginal suppositories containing boric acid are used alongside other medications to treat certain vaginal infections.

However, boric acid is toxic when absorbed in large quantities and can cause:

• kidney injury
• acute circulatory collapse
• death if excessive amounts are absorbed

Warning: Do not apply boric acid to broken skin and never ingest it.

If you are pregnant, you should avoid boric acid in any form. It may also be unsuitable for those with sensitive skin. Stop use immediately if it causes irritation.

3. Essential oil of oregano

Oil of oregano is different from the common culinary oregano (Origanum marjoram) sold in grocery stores.

For potential antifungal effects, look for oregano oil derived from wild oregano (Origanum vulgare).

Some research suggests that oregano essential oil might alter the growth of Candida albicans.

To apply aromatically or topically, dilute three to five drops of oregano essential oil per ounce of a carrier oil such as olive or sweet almond oil, then massage onto skin or use in a diffuser. Avoid applying oregano oil near the vaginal opening.

Warning: Never ingest essential oils. They should be inhaled or applied topically only when properly diluted — not used internally.

Oil of Oregano — Oregano Essential Oil — effective antimicrobial for restoring vaginal pH — effective for altering the growth of Candida Albicans — could be applied externally to skin with carrier oil (inner wrists, behind ears, back of neck)

4. Probiotic suppositories and supplements

Probiotics can help reestablish the balance between beneficial bacteria and yeast across your body.

Oral probiotics containing strains like Lactobacillus acidophilus may support gut and vaginal flora balance.

Oral supplements can take several days to weeks to show full benefits, so some people opt for probiotic vaginal suppositories to get faster local effects.

Evidence also suggests probiotic suppositories can help treat bacterial vaginosis (BV), which indicates potential benefit for vaginal microbial balance.

5. Coconut oil

Coconut oil, extracted from coconut flesh, has antifungal properties and several health uses.

Research indicates coconut oil can be active against C. albicans, making it one of the home remedies with laboratory support.

To try it, use pure, organic coconut oil and apply it directly to the affected external area.

6. Tea tree oil

Tea tree oil is an essential oil known for activity against fungi, bacteria, and viruses.

Some studies back tea tree oil’s antifungal properties.

Research from 2016 suggests combining probiotics with vaginal suppositories containing tea tree oil may help treat vaginal infections.

Later laboratory work continues to support tea tree oil’s antimicrobial effects.

Because tea tree oil is potent, always dilute it with a carrier oil such as jojoba or coconut oil before skin contact — undiluted tea tree oil should never be applied to skin. Remember, essential oils are for external use only and should not be used internally.

If possible, choose commercially prepared tea tree vaginal suppositories, which are a safer option.

Warning: Use tea tree oil sparingly, never swallow it, and avoid it if you have sensitive skin. Discontinue if you develop irritation.

7. Apple cider vinegar

An apple cider vinegar (ACV) bath is a commonly suggested remedy for yeast infections.

Vinegar has varied medicinal uses; some are better supported than others.

Sitting in a lukewarm bath with a half cup of apple cider vinegar for about 20 minutes may help reduce harmful microorganisms, including yeast, due to the vinegar’s acidity.

An ACV bath is not the same as douching. Douching flushes out both good and bad bacteria and can increase the chance of recurrent infections, so don’t douche with apple cider vinegar or any other substance.

Always dilute vinegar before letting it touch your skin, and you might also try adding apple cider vinegar to your diet.

8. Garlic

Some evidence indicates garlic can inhibit Candida species, though effectiveness may vary by strain.

A 2019 study examined a garlic solution used on oral lesions and found it could limit Candida growth, although it was less effective than the antifungal nystatin.

If you want to try garlic, the safest approach is to increase dietary garlic rather than inserting it into the vagina.

Warning: Inserting garlic into the vagina is not recommended — compounds in raw garlic can cause burns, pain, and mucosal irritation.

9. Hydrogen peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is an antiseptic that can kill certain bacteria and yeast. Lactobacillus species in the vagina naturally produce small amounts of hydrogen peroxide as part of normal activity.

Some people use diluted hydrogen peroxide topically for genital yeast. You can dilute equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water for limited external use or add it to a bath.

Keep in mind hydrogen peroxide may not be effective against all yeast species, and strong evidence for its use to treat vaginal infections is lacking.

Warning: Avoid douching with hydrogen peroxide, never use it internally, and don’t use it for extended periods.

10. Vitamin C

Vitamin C supports immune function and skin health. A robust immune system helps the body restore its balance.

Ascorbic acid has antimicrobial qualities, so some people bolster their intake to help manage Candida overgrowth.

Increasing dietary vitamin C may aid your body’s response to infection.

Warning: Do not apply acidic vitamin C directly to delicate vaginal tissue.

11. Vitamin E

Vitamin E is sometimes recommended for certain forms of vaginal inflammation. Evidence suggests vitamin E can reduce inflammation caused by Candida albicans.

Additional studies indicate vitamin E suppositories might help with atrophic vaginitis (vaginal atrophy), where thinning of vaginal walls from low estrogen alters the vaginal environment and raises infection risk.

You can buy vaginal vitamin E suppositories or apply vitamin E oil externally to the vulva. Vitamin E may help relieve:

• itching
• burning
• inflammation

If vitamin E doesn’t help, consult a healthcare provider for further guidance.

What is a vaginal yeast infection?

A vaginal yeast infection (vaginal candidiasis) is a common condition caused by an overgrowth of Candida albicans, a fungus that normally lives in the vagina.

This overgrowth can produce:

• irritation
• inflammation
• itching
• painful discharge

Most people with a vulva will experience a yeast infection at some point.

If you’re experiencing these symptoms for the first time, see a gynecologist or other healthcare professional to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other vaginal conditions.

Symptoms of a yeast infection

Common signs include:

• vaginal discharge that may be white or yellowish, watery or clumpy like cottage cheese
• vaginal itching
• burning when urinating or during intercourse
• pain during sex
• tenderness or swelling around the vulva
• rash

How to diagnose a yeast infection

For a first-time infection, see a healthcare professional for diagnosis.

A clinician will review your medical history and perform a pelvic exam to inspect the cervix, vaginal walls, and surrounding tissue for signs of infection.

If a yeast infection is confirmed, they’ll discuss treatment options.

If you’ve had yeast infections before and recognize the symptoms, you might try home remedies for relief, but remember their effectiveness varies and many reports remain anecdotal.

What causes a vaginal yeast infection?

Yeast infections arise when yeast overgrows in an area of the body.

Triggers can include:

• Hormones: Pregnancy, breastfeeding, menstrual cycle changes, or menopause can shift the yeast balance.
• Sex: While vaginosis is not an STI, yeast can be transmitted through sexual contact, and intercourse can alter vaginal bacteria.
• Diabetes: Elevated sugars in vaginal mucous membranes can promote yeast growth.
• Antibiotics: These can reduce “good” bacteria that keep yeast in check.
• Douches and sprays: These products can disturb the vaginal microbial balance.
• Weakened immune system: HIV, immunosuppressive medications, or autoimmune disorders can increase susceptibility.

When to contact a doctor

Home remedies may take several days to show improvement.

Contact a healthcare professional if your symptoms worsen or new symptoms develop during treatment. Also see a doctor for persistent irritation unrelated to a known yeast infection.

If an infection clears with home care but returns, seek medical advice—prescription treatment may be necessary to fully resolve the problem.

See a clinician promptly if:

• you’re pregnant
• you’ve had more than four yeast infections in the past year
• you have a weakened immune system due to medications
• you have uncontrolled diabetes
• you have HIV
• you have severe redness, swelling, or itching that causes sores or tears

For severe infections, a doctor might prescribe:

• multiple doses of fluconazole, an oral antifungal
• topical antifungals such as miconazole (Monistat)
• prescription vaginal tablets or suppositories like terconazole (Terazol)

Other tips for managing vaginal yeast infections

Ways to help prevent future infections:

• Limit sugar and processed foods—yeast feeds on sugar.
• Include yogurt or supplements containing Lactobacillus in your diet.
• Wear loose-fitting, cotton underwear; wash in hot water with mild, unscented detergent.
• Avoid prolonged periods in wet clothes or swimsuits—yeast thrives in warm, moist settings.
• Use antibiotics only when necessary.
• Don’t douche unless advised by a doctor; avoid scented vaginal sprays and lotions that can disrupt the balance of bacteria and yeast.

Frequently asked questions about yeast infections

What is the fastest way to get rid of a yeast infection?

The quickest and most reliable approach is to see a doctor. They commonly prescribe fluconazole, an oral antifungal that may clear an infection within a week.

Can yeast infections go away on their own?

A mild yeast infection might resolve without treatment, but this is uncommon. Treating an infection is recommended to reduce the chance of recurrence.

What happens if a yeast infection is left untreated?

It may resolve, but recurrence is likely and symptoms can worsen without treatment.

How do I know if it’s a yeast infection or a urinary tract infection (UTI)?

Although they affect nearby areas, yeast infections and UTIs have distinct symptoms.

Yeast infections often cause abnormal, usually odorless vaginal discharge that’s thick and milky or clumpy, plus genital itching or pain.

UTIs commonly cause burning with urination, foul-smelling urine, and may include:

• fever
• chills
• nausea
• pelvic pain
• more frequent, urgent urination

What is the difference between a yeast infection and bacterial vaginosis?

BV and yeast infections share similar symptoms but have different causes and treatments; both cause vaginitis.

BV typically causes a fishy, foul odor, whereas a yeast infection tends to produce little odor or a yeast-like smell and may cause visible redness and vulvar inflammation, which BV usually does not.

To distinguish them, a doctor may:

• review your medical history
• examine you for signs of infection and discharge
• collect a discharge sample for analysis to check for overgrowth of bacteria or fungi
• test vaginal pH — a pH of around 4.5 or higher can suggest BV

Can I take over-the-counter (OTC) medication for my yeast infection?

Yes. Most uncomplicated vaginal yeast infections respond to OTC creams or suppositories available as 1-day, 3-day, or 7-day treatments.

Takeaway

Home remedies may or may not successfully treat a yeast infection. If you choose herbs, supplements, or essential oils, know that the FDA does not regulate them for:

• safety
• purity
• quality

Buy these products from reputable sources when possible.

Effectiveness varies based on the individual, the infection’s severity, and the quality of the remedy used.

If you experience recurrent infections, talk with a healthcare professional about additional natural strategies and medical treatments. Always consult a clinician if this is your first yeast infection.

Remember, any product—natural or not—can irritate sensitive vaginal skin. Stop use and consult a doctor if you develop irritation or discomfort.