Vaginal itching is a very common problem faced by women all throughout their lives. Several reasons can be attributed to this condition and based on the cause, the treatment methods too vary. Whilst most women take the help of antibiotics and over the counter drugs for treating vaginal infections, many of them are unaware of the wonderful home remedies that are available for treating such conditions. The home remedies for vaginal itching discussed here are extremely easy to use, even though they could take some time to be effective on your body. The remedies discussed here are apple cider vinegar, rosemary leaves, salt water bath, garlic, yogurt, basil leaves, boric acid, saffron, Lady’s finger, henna, and gooseberry powder.
These home remedies for vaginal itching can be administered while traveling as well, and do not require any extra investment. However, they could take time to work, especially if the vaginal itching is due to some kind of infection like yeast or bacterial infection. Home remedies work by destroying the bacterial and fungal infection in the vaginal area, which could be causing the irritation and itching.
Home remedies for vaginal itching
Garlic
A wonderful antibacterial and anti inflammatory agent, garlic helps very well in treating the infection that causes the vaginal itching in the first place. Once the infection is taken care of, the itching subsides naturally. Garlic is especially effective when the itching is caused due to bacterial infections, vaginitis, and urinary tract infections. Three to four cloves can be chewed and swallowed every day for best results. You may also crush garlic cloves and add to boiling water in order to reduce its heat and consume it internally. Though the smell could be a major put off, it is one of the single most effective treatment against all bacterial infections that cause severe itching. Garlic capsules too are available for consumption. However, they may not be as effective as raw garlic.
Yogurt
Packed with the goodness of probiotics, the millions of beneficial bacteria present in yogurt help in overpowering all kinds of infections in the vagina and other parts of the body that cause burning, itching and infection. A cup or two of fresh yogurt with live culture can be taken every day to combat bacterial and yeast infections in the body. Alternatively, apply fresh and cold yogurt into your vagina with a cotton swab. You may also insert a tampon dipped in yogurt for the same effect. Replace the tampon with fresh ones every few hours to control the vaginal itching effectively.
Apple cider vinegar
The antibacterial and anti fungal properties of apple cider vinegar can immediately remove all the bacteria and fungus that are fast multiplying and causing intense vaginal itching. Frequent application is needed for completely removing the infection that causes itching and burning in the vagina. Take a glass of lukewarm water and add two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar. The ‘mother’ which is the top layer that is found on top of the apple cider vinegar is the most potent part of the solution. Use this diluted water for douching your vaginal area several times a day.
Henna
Henna is known for its antifungal nature and is used for a number of common ailments of the skin and body. Its leaf extracts can be taken twice a day. Take two tablespoons of henna juice. Drink one tablespoon on an empty stomach in the morning. One more tablespoon has to be taken 5 to 6 hours after your meal. Taking henna extract for about ten days will help deal with all kinds of yeast as well as bacterial infections which are a major cause of vaginal itching in most women. Henna leaf suppositories too are available for internal application to control the vaginal itching.
Basil leaves
Basil leaf has antimicrobial properties that help in destroying all the germs present in the vagina with frequent application. You can use it for vaginal douching to prevent the vaginal itching and keep the burning and infection under control. Take a handful of basil leaves and crush it to form a paste. Boil two cups of water and remove from the stove. Add the basil leaf paste and steep for about 15 minutes, taking care to cover the container with a lid. This water can be used for douching the vaginal canal. Basil water can also be taken internally for best results.
Salt water bath
Saltwater is a natural antibacterial agent, straight from the kitchen cabinet. You can administer this simple remedy as soon as you feel the infection surfacing. Take two tablespoons of salt and add to a medium-sized bowl of warm water. Use this for washing the vaginal area frequently. The antimicrobial properties of salt will prevent the bacteria from multiplying uncontrollably. You can also prepare a site bath with one cup salt to half a tub full of water. Sit inside the tub in a squatting position so that your vaginal canal is open and the water enters the vagina. Remain inside for 15-20 minutes. Repeat 3-4 times a day.
Saffron
Saffron is a very strong remedy that one can use for treating infections and inflammations of the vaginal canal. For preparing the infusion, take eight to ten strands of saffron and boil it in eight ounces of water. Simmer the solution until the infusion reduces to half a cup. Take two tablespoons of this infusion in the morning for a week to take care of the infection and the vaginal itching associated with it. Another way of preparing saffron is to take half a cup of water and add a teaspoon of milk to it. Boil until the solution becomes 1/4th of the added quantity. Take it once a day for ten days to cure vaginal itching and infection. Continue the intake if the itching does not subside after ten days.
Boric acid
Boric acid is an antibacterial agent which you can use for treating severe infections of the vagina and also vaginal itching associated with these infections. You can insert the suppositories of boric acid inside the vagina for treating infections and also for controlling the vaginal itch. You can also insert the suppositories of adequate dosage in the morning as well as evening and to reduce the bacterial action. Continue treatment for a week and check if the infection has subsided. The treatment can be continued for about four weeks if there is a severe infection that requires more time to heal. For the right dosage and treatment time, and to assess the severity of your infection, consult a herbalist.
Gooseberry powder
Gooseberry is popular for its antibacterial and antifungal qualities. Rich in a variety of nutrients necessary for the immunity of the body, people use gooseberry for treating common ailments and vaginal itching and infections. Take one teaspoon of powdered gooseberry and add eight ounces of water. Mix well and drink it first thing in the morning, on an empty stomach. Doing this for 3 to 4 days is enough to destroy the germs and fungi in your vagina. Not only that, but it also provides great relief from the symptoms. Gooseberry powder can be taken internally to cure a number of vaginal infections and burning associated with diseases. Use this water externally for douching.
Lady’s finger
Lady’s finger has a probiotic action on the body. It helps in overpowering the bad bacteria and developing the resistance of a person. As a result, it stalls the infections and vaginal itching. Take 5-6 lady’s fingers and cut into small pieces. Add two cups of water and boil it for about 20 minutes until the water starts thickening and turns slimy. Strain the water and take it several times a day to treat vaginal itching and inflammation. You may also add some salt, garlic, and turmeric along with this water to increase its effectiveness. Lady’s finger is mucilaginous in nature and help in removing mucus from the body. This is important since mucus is a breeding ground for bacteria and virus, which causes illnesses of all kinds.
Rosemary leaves
This wonderful herb has many medicinal and culinary benefits and hence a preferred addition in any kitchen. Being antiviral and analgesic in nature, among a host of other benefits, Rosemary can be used for stopping vaginal itching, menstrual cramps, vaginal spasms, and infections. One can prepare this simple remedy by crushing a handful of rosemary leaves and adding it to boiling water. Steep for fifteen minutes and cool before drinking the infusion. One can use this solution for vaginal douching whenever you feel the itching and burning sensation. Rosemary leaves are also great for treating pain and inflammation. Thus, it is the perfect solution for treating all kinds of infections of the vagina. This includes bacterial vaginosis, vaginitis, urinary tract infects, etc. that cause intense itching inside the vaginal canal due to the multiplication of bacteria.