Vaccines for Children: List By Age, Benefits, Safety
6 Home Remedies For Vaginal And Vulvar Itching
Treatment for an itchy vagina and vulva will depend on the cause. Home remedies may help, such as adding baking soda or oatmeal to a warm bath, but it is usually best to contact a doctor for a complete treatment.
The vagina, the vulva, or both can itch. The vulva is the external part of the female genitals, including the clitoris, the labia, and the opening of the vagina. Healthcare professionals refer to vulvar itching as "pruritus vulvae."
Vulvovaginal itching can occur for various reasons. Some home remedies may help relieve the itching but cannot heal the underlying cause.
For example, antibiotics are usually required for bacterial infections or antifungal medications for yeast infections. Vaginal itching is also a common symptom of menopause, and doctors can prescribe moisturizers or lubricants to help ease this symptom.
This article discusses the scientific evidence behind some common home remedies for vaginal and vulvar itching and when to contact a doctor.
Vaginal itching can occur due to the following:
IrritantsThe most common cause of an itchy vulva is irritant contact dermatitis. This can happen due to:
Some infections that can cause itching of the vagina, vulva, or both include:
Skin conditionsSkin issues that can cause vaginal itching include:
Vulvar cancerIn rare cases, persistent itching on the vulva could be a sign of vulvar cancer, a type of cancer that forms on the external female genitalia.
Some specific types of vulvar cancers and precancers that could cause itching include:
Other signs of vulvar cancer may include burning or bleeding on the vulva, skin changes, and pain in the pelvis, especially when urinating or having sex.
HormonesLow estrogen levels can cause the skin to become itchy, dry, or irritated.
This is especially common during menopause, as the tissues of the vulva and the lining of the vagina become thinner due to hormone changes.
A decline in estrogen levels may also be due to other factors, including:
The following are some common home remedies that a person can use to soothe vulvovaginal itching:
1. Bath oilSometimes, dry skin can lead to an itchy vulva.
The National Eczema Association (NEA) advises that adding gentle oils to bathwater can help moisturize the skin.
However, a person should avoid any bath oil that contains fragrance, which can irritate the area further.
2. Baking sodaAccording to the NEA, adding a ¼ cup of baking soda to a bath or applying it to the skin as a paste is a common way to relieve itching.
The International Menopause Society (IMS) also suggests washing the vulva with a diluted solution of baking soda to help relieve itching. They recommend using a ½ teaspoon of baking soda per 1 liter of water.
Baking soda may help relieve vulvar itching due to dry skin. It may also help a person get relief from itching related to active lesions of genital herpes. However, a person will likely also need medication to manage outbreaks.
Learn more about treatments for herpes.
3. OatmealAdding oatmeal to a bath can also help ease vulvar itching due to dry skin or skin conditions such as eczema.
A small 2015 study involving 29 female participants concluded that using colloidal oatmeal significantly reduced the intensity of the itch.
4. Vitamin EResearch from 2015 indicates that vitamin E may help relieve itching in the vulva or vagina caused by atopic dermatitis or menopause.
For example, a 2022 study found that vitamin E may be an effective short-term treatment for genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM), a condition that results from hormonal shifts during menopause. Symptoms of the condition include irritation, itching, vaginal dryness.
However, the researchers noted that more high quality placebo-controlled studies are necessary to clarify the efficacy, ideal dosing, and safety of vitamin E.
Vitamin E for vaginal health comes in various forms, including suppositories and creams. The IMS also reports that topical or oral vitamin E has this effect.
5. Yogurt and honeyYogurt contains a type of bacteria called Lactobacillus, which also live in the genitals.
Some evidence suggests that applying a mixture of yogurt and honey to the vulva or inside the vagina can help treat fungal infections that may be responsible for vaginal itching.
A small 2015 study concluded that yeast infection symptoms seemed to improve in participants who used a mixture of a vaginal cream, yogurt, and honey.
A newer 2021 study has suggested that the effect of honey and yogurt is just as effective, if not more effective, at managing vagina yeast as the prescription medication clotrimazole.
However, the authors of a 2019 article cautioned that there is still too little evidence to support using yogurt in this way.
6. GarlicSome people believe that taking garlic capsules or even putting garlic inside the vagina can help prevent or treat bacterial or fungal infections.
A 2015 review warned that there is a lack of evidence that this remedy works and may have adverse effects, including burns and allergic reactions.
However, a 2018 case report did show that a subject's vaginal infection went away after using garlic in this manner.
A person can help prevent vaginal and vulvar itchiness by:
Home remedies can help ease itchiness in the vagina and vulva but cannot treat the underlying cause.
Therefore, most causes of vaginal itching require medical attention.
A person should contact a medical professional if the itching is persistent, especially if it occurs with any of the following:
Below are some common questions about vaginal and vulvar itching.
What does it mean to have vulvar itching for months?Many different conditions can cause prolonged vulvar itching, including:
If a person experiences persistent vulvar itching, they should speak with a medical professional, especially if it involves other symptoms, such as pain or unusual discharge.
How does someone stop vulvar or vaginal itching right away?Many home remedies can help alleviate vulvar or vaginal itching, including the use of baking soda, bath oils, or colloidal oatmeal.
However, while these home remedies may temporarily reduce itching, medical treatment may still be necessary to address the underlying cause.
What is the best itching cream for the vaginal area?Doctors often prescribe hydrocortisone cream to reduce itching caused by certain skin conditions, such as atopic dermatitis.
Keep in mind that a person should apply this medication to the vulva in small amounts and only use it as directed by a medical professional.
Does Vaseline stop itching down there?Refrigerated petroleum jelly (Vaseline) on an unscented sanitary pad may be soothing for an itchy or irritated vagina or vulva.
However, a person applying products to the vulva should do so with caution. Some older research links using Vaseline with an increased risk of vaginal health issues such as bacterial vaginosis.
A person should also avoid using anything inside the vagina as this can worsen irritation, itching, or discharge.
Most causes of vaginal itching require some form of medical treatment. In the meantime, a person can take steps at home to ease the itching, such as using vitamin E or colloidal oatmeal.
There are also ways to avoid some causes of vaginal and vulvar itching, such as using fragrance-free soaps and other products.
Natural Antibiotics: Get Rid Of Bacterial Infections With These Foods
There are many home remedies and foods that work as natural antibiotics. So, instead of going for medications, you can try adding these foods to your daily diet to be safe from bacterial infections. Many people look for alternatives to antibiotics to fight bacterial infections. Here we list some home remedies and foods that work as natural antibiotics.
Written by Jahnavi SarmaUpdated : February 19, 2024 12:53 PM IST
Antibiotics are commonly used in the treatment of bacterial infections. But because of abuse and incorrect usage, today many bacteria have become resistant to these drugs. Moreover, many antibiotics also come with side-effects that can sometimes damage organs like the liver and kidneys. Therefore, many people today look for natural alternatives to these drugs. Luckily, there are many home remedies and foods that work as natural antibiotics. So, instead of going for medications, you can try adding these foods to your daily diet to be safe from many bacterial infections. These can not only prevent bacterial infections but also help you fight the invading pathogens if you are already infected. These natural antibiotics will bring down inflammation and increase the presence of good, protective bacteria. So, here are some home remedies that work as natural antibiotics.
GingerThis is one of the best anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory food that you can find. It contains gingerol, terpenoids, shogaol, zerumbone and zingerone as well as powerful flavonoids with anti-microbial properties. It can help you fight many strains of bacteria effectively.
How to have it
The best way to have it is raw. You can chew on it after your meals as a mouth freshener. Grate some onto your salads and soups. You can also add some to your morning cup of tea.
Oregano oilThis has potent anti-bacterial and antifungal compounds in the form of carvacrol and thymol. This oil can help you fight several strains of bacteria, some even antibiotic resistant. It is particularly effective in the treatment of E. Coli. But be sure to use the pure oil and buy it from a verified source.
How to use it
Just mix 1 to 2 drops of this oil in water or oil and have it. Don't have it for more than 2 weeks at a time and consult a doctor before starting as it may interact with certain medications.
OnionThese are a rich source of therapeutic sulfur compounds called cysteine sulphoxides besides containing flavonoids that have amazing antibiotic effects.
How to use it
You can have this raw. Be sure to cut it and leave it for some time. This will increase its phytonutrient content. You can also add it to stews and soups or just saut some. To make it more potent, add some garlic to it.
GarlicThis contains allicin, which can effectively fight against several many strains of bacteria. But have this in moderation. People with bleeding disorders must consult their doctor before having this and it is not meant for children. That being said, garlic can kill pathogens responsible for common as well as rare infections. It has potent anti-bacterial and anti-microbial properties and is best consumed raw.
How to have it
Just chop a garlic clove into small pieces or crush and let it sit for some time. This will release enzymes that get converted to allicin. Eat it after some time. You may wash it down with a glass of water if the taste is not to your liking. Start with one clove and gradually increase it to 3.
Manuka honeyAll honey are good for fighting pathogens. But Manuka honey is more potent that other varieties. This honey is native to New Zealand. It has amazing antibiotic, anti-bacterial and anti-microbial properties and is used even in the treatment of MRSA. But it must not be given to infants. It can even inhibit multiple drug-resistant pathogens.
How to have it
Just have two tablespoons of Manuka honey every day. Avoid heating it because doing so may destroy its therapeutic value. Be sure to buy this from a genuine source to get the pure form of this honey.
Disclaimer: Please try these remedies only after consulting a doctor to avoid contraindications and allergic reactions. This is not meant to be a substitute for proper treatment.
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8 Home Remedies To Get Rid Of Cysts
A cyst is usually not harmful, but you'll need to see a doctor if you want a cyst removed. Certain home remedies, such as a warm compress, can help reduce any uncomfortable symptoms.
Cysts are hard lumps filled with various substances that form in the body. There are many types. The most common type is an epidermoid cyst, which grows right under the skin.
Doctors or surgeons may help you remove this type of cyst. This is the only reliable way to remove one completely.
On the other hand, you can also try home remedies for your epidermoid cyst. These may help shrink it, reduce its appearance, or alleviate discomfort.
Before discussing home remedies, it's necessary to go over a few important details:
Remember: If your cyst isn't causing you problems, you don't necessarily always need to remove it.
Talk with your doctor if the cyst:
Simple heat is the most recommended and effective home measure for draining or shrinking cysts.
Here's how it works: Heat may reduce the thickness of liquid in the cyst. In the case of liquid-filled epidermoid cysts, this may help fluid drain quicker into the lymphatic system. This system helps maintain fluid balance in the body and plays a role in protection against infection.
Keep in mindThough this remedy is widely recommended by doctors and reputable sources, there are still no studies testing or showing that it's effective. There's also no research supporting the science of how it works.
As well, it doesn't permanently remove cysts — only a healthcare professional can do that. Although this method isn't guaranteed to drain or reduce the appearance of a cyst, it should provide some comfort.
To useEssential oil from the tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) may help some cysts, albeit in an indirect way.
Research shows tea tree oil has antimicrobial activity. This means it inhibits the growth of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other pathogens, though it's not as strong or effective as synthetic compounds
Some cysts are caused by ingrown hairs. These form when hair follicles don't grow properly, leading to infection of a sebaceous gland. This creates a pus pocket that may become a cyst, referred to as a sebaceous cyst.
As an antimicrobial, tea tree oil may help kill bacterial infections caused by ingrown hairs. It may decrease the chances of getting a cyst caused by an ingrown hair or reduce its appearance.
Keep in mindOverall, tea tree oil isn't a proven cyst remedy. There are still no studies that show it can remove or prevent cysts.
Also, since not all cysts are caused by ingrown hairs, tea tree oil is highly unlikely to help all types of cysts — though trying it is low risk and may help in shrinking the cyst.
To useYou can also combine tea tree oil applications with the above hot water compress remedy. Simply add essential oil to the hot water in the proper dilution ratio.
Avoid applying undiluted tea tree essential oil directly to the cyst or skin. This may cause discomfort, irritation, or burns. Always dilute the oil before topical use.
Apple cider vinegar is another recommended natural remedy. It may help with cysts to a limited extent.
There are no studies showing apple cider vinegar reduces cysts or removes them.
But, like tea tree oil, apple cider vinegar is shown to be antimicrobial at full strength. This is thanks to the acetic acid. It might not be as effective at lower strengths against some types of microbes, but it's still important to dilute it before applying it to your skin.
Keep in mindApple cider vinegar may be effective for certain kinds of cysts, such as those caused by bacteria, but there's no guarantee. It may still be worth a try since there are very few health risks.
To useYou can combine apple cider vinegar applications with the hot water compress home remedy. Simply add the apple cider vinegar to the hot water in the proper dilution ratio.
Never apply undiluted apple cider vinegar directly to the skin. Acetic acids may cause discomfort, irritation, or burns.
Research shows that aloe vera has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Both may help with pain and irritation in cysts.
Aloe vera may also help reduce the appearance or get rid of certain cysts caused by bacteria or other pathogens.
Keep in mindIn studies, aloe vera hasn't been shown to reliably remove, drain, or reduce the appearance of cysts. It could be helpful for discomfort and pain, though more research is needed to fully support this.
To useFollowing label directions, apply a pure aloe vera gel, cream, or lotion directly to an irritated or painful cyst as often as needed.
Only source aloe products from reputable and trustworthy companies. It's best to look at the ingredients list to be sure you're getting pure aloe.
Oil from the castor plant (Ricinis communis) may help cysts in the same vein as apple cider vinegar or tea tree.
Research shows castor oil is antimicrobial. It's notably effective at killing bacteria that live in the skin, which can cause acne and cysts.
Keep in mindCastor oil isn't a proven cure for cysts, nor is it shown to reduce their appearance.
It's also unlikely to help all types of cysts, only the types caused by bacteria — though there's no guarantee it helps with those types either.
To useMake sure to source a 100 percent pure castor oil product. Only purchase products from trustworthy companies with good reputations.
Avoid ingesting castor oil if you're pregnant or allergic to the substance. Also, be aware that it can cause diarrhea if consumed.
Witch hazel is a common topical wash for acne. Research indicates it may help acne due to its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties.
These properties could also benefit epidermoid cysts. It's possible that witch hazel's astringent tannins may help shrink them, while anti-inflammatory effects could ease pain.
Keep in mindThere are still no direct studies showing that witch hazel can treat cysts. It's unlikely that it helps to remove them, though it may ease discomfort.
To usePeople with sensitive skin may have reactions to witch hazel, but this can be avoided by diluting witch hazel with water.
Some recommend honey for cyst management, though research on this is scarce. However, a 2017 review of studies indicated it has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects.
Keep in mindThere's not enough research to call honey a cyst treatment or remover. Using it may help with discomfort as well as cysts caused by bacteria.
To useOne method is to create a poultice by mixing honey, preferably raw and all-natural, with other antimicrobial herbs and ingredients. You then apply the mixture to the cyst and leave it on overnight.
Alternatively, try this simpler technique:
While turmeric alone won't get rid of a cyst, the spice has well-known anti-inflammatory properties that may help with the healing process.
Keep in mindTurmeric isn't a cure for cysts. There's also no guarantee that it'll prevent or reduce swelling. And it might not help at all with certain types of cysts.
To useIf possible, use fresh turmeric powder.
A word of caution: Turmeric may cause skin reactions in some people. Before applying it directly to your cyst, patch test it on another small area of skin.
You can't prevent a cyst from forming, but you can prevent one from getting infected.
The best way to do this is to avoid:
Never try to remove or pop a cyst at home. This increases the chances of infection. Popping also doesn't guarantee a cyst will go away permanently. While there are home remedies you may try to reduce the size of a cyst, you can't generally remove a cyst at home.
How can I shrink a cyst at home?There are home remedies you may try to reduce the size of a cyst. There's no evidence any of these options will always reduce the size of a cyst, they are unlikely to hurt you. These options include:
While there's no evidence that home remedies work, these optionss may help a cyst dissolve depending on the type and size of the cyst:
Seeing a doctor is the fastest way to get rid of a cyst. There are several ways a doctor may remove a cyst depending on the type and size, a doctor may cut it open and drain it, inject medication to help it go away, or surgically remove the cyst.
Some home remedies can help with certain aspects of cysts or specific types. Hot water compresses are most recommended by reputable sources.
Before using topical natural remedies, do a skin patch test: Apply a small amount to your forearm, and then wait for 24 hours to see if you have an allergic reaction. Though these are rare, they could happen.
If a home remedy causes discomfort, irritation, or other unusual symptoms, discontinue use immediately. Talk with your doctor instead about cyst treatment.
Remember that the only proven way to remove a cyst is to have it done by a healthcare professional.
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