Can Apple Cider Vinegar Cure Vaginal Yeast Infection?

Although there is some controversy about apple cider vinegar and its effect on vaginal yeast infection, many prominent researchers have determined that yes; apple cider vinegar does have certain antifungal properties that make this household product an effective treatment against vaginal yeast.

In this article we will look at some of the rationale behind apple cider vinegar’s effectiveness, and show you three common ways apple cider vinegar can be used in treating a vaginal yeast infection.

The Facts

Vaginal yeast infections are caused by an overgrowth of Candida yeast, specifically the species called Candida albicans, and research shows that these Candida yeasts and apple cider vinegar, especially raw and unfiltered apple cider vinegar, simply don’t get along.

Here’s why :

Within our bodies, including in the vagina, there are billions and billions of bacterial and fungal organisms, and most of these bacteria are of a friendly sort, helping to keep harmful bacteria and fungus in check. However, when this balance of organisms becomes disrupted, when there is an upset in the natural and normal vaginal flora, these disruptions can deplete our store of good bacteria, allowing the fungus to grow unchecked.

This is what causes a vaginal yeast infection.

There are several things that lead to an imbalance in the vaginal flora and the resulting infection, including pregnancy, menopause, oral contraceptives, diabetes, broad-spectrum antibiotics, steroids and a weakened immune system.

These conditions/substances create an environment where Candida yeasts can flourish, so to conquer this yeast overgrowth the normal vaginal flora needs to be restored.

Apple cider vinegar that is raw and unfiltered can be an integral part of this process.  That’s because it contains natural enzymes which help aid in digestion, and can restore the balance of healthy bacteria that is found throughout the body, particularly in the digestive tract and vagina.

Apple cider vinegar helps creates the perfect environment where new healthy bacteria can grow and flourish, and this healthy bacteria is exactly what’s needed to both fight off the overgrowth of fungus, including the Candida albicans species, and restore the normal balance of organisms in the vagina.

3 Methods to Cure Vaginal Yeast Infection with Apple Cider Vinegar

There are three ways apple cider vinegar can be used to cure vaginal yeast infection at home.

These are :

• Topically. When raw and unfiltered apple cider vinegar is diluted it can be very effective as a topical yeast-curing agent. Experts say you should combine warm water with about 3 tablespoons of the vinegar, and apply it gently to the affected areas. The acid in the vinegar, because it has roughly the same acidity level as the vagina, will help to measurably clear the yeast after only a few applications.
• In a Bath. Apple cider vinegar baths are a relaxing way to attack problem yeast in the vagina. Just add two cups of apple cider vinegar to a warm bath, fold your knees up, and relax for about 15 minutes. When the bath is finished, dry your body thoroughly with a clean towel and opt for clean, cotton underpants, preferably laundered with an unscented detergent.
• Orally. Because of the acidity level, apple cider vinegar is not tolerated well by some in oral form, but if your stomach can handle it, taking it as an oral treatment can be very effective against Candida yeast. Just combine 6 ounces of water with two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar and drink the solution. For best results, repeat this at least twice a day, right before meals.

Apple cider vinegar is one of the most effective home cures for vaginal yeast infection, however due to the level of acidity, it’s extremely important that the vinegar is properly diluted, as concentrated apple cider vinegar can cause burns to your skin.