Essential oils are oils extracted from various plants and herbs through distinctive processes like steam distillation and expression. Essential oils are fragrant oils which are of great utility in curing various ailments.
Yeast infections are fungal infections, which are scientifically referred to as Candidiasis, as they are caused by yeasts of the Candida species. The major symptoms of candidiasis are redness, swelling, itching, and discomfort in the affected areas or parts of the body. The target organs for yeast infection are the skin, the mucosal membranes of the oral cavity, esophagus, gastrointestinal tract, urinary bladder, and the genital organs including the vagina and penis.
A Yeast infection may be treated by various methods like probiotics or boric acid suppositories. One of the upcoming, but highly effective ways to cure yeast infections is aromatherapy which employs various essential oils to treat fungal infections. Some of the essential oils that may be used to cure yeast infections are:
- Tea tree essential oil: Tea tree essential oil, also called melaleuca essential oil is a golden color essential oil which has antibacterial and antifungal properties. As such, it is used to cure infections caused by yeast attack. Tea tree oil works on the cell membranes of the yeast cells, thereby making them susceptible to the action of anti fungal agents. Tea tree oil attacks the cell membrane of the yeast cells, thereby making them weak by exposing the cell content to anti fungal agents. Tea tree oil must not be applied in concentrated form but should be diluted with carrier oils like olive oil as tea tree essential oil works better in lower concentrations.
- Cinnamon bark essential oil: This essential oil is extracted from the bark of a plant belonging to the genus, Cinamomun verum. The essential oil fights various infections caused by bacteria and fungi. The cinnamon bark essential oil is particularly used to treat the yeast infections of genital organs like vagina.
- You may also use lavender essential oil to treat yeast infections.
The usage of essential oils to cure yeast infection is as follows:
- First put five drops of tea tree and lavender essential oils in a container.
- Then add a few drops of distilled water to the blend of essential oils.
- Dip a cotton swab in the blend of essential oils and apply on the infected areas of the body.
- Discard the used cotton piece and cover the treated area.
- You are advised to repeat the process at least thrice a day.
- Make sure that you discuss these treatments with your doctor or an aroma therapist specialist before using them.
Tags: aromatherapy for yeast infection, aromatherapy oils for yeast infection, aromatherapy treatment, essential oil uses, yeast infection treatment