Bacterial vaginosis (BV) infection occurs when there is more bad bacteria than good bacteria in the vaginal environment. There are home treatments that can be used for this, but these must be done with utter precaution. Here we have listed top 10 home remedies treatments for bacterial vaginosis to help heal this infection.
1. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a natural pH regulator due to its acidic components. When your pH is regulated, there is a balance of both the good and bad bacteria in your vaginal environment. ACV also contains antibacterial properties that help cleanse your body. Use ACV by mixing it with water when you take a bath. Do this once a day.
2. Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is a natural disinfectant, helping to get rid of excess bad bacteria. It also has anti-inflammatory properties to reduce the chances of getting BV. To use, soak a tampon with 3% H202 and insert it in your vaginal area.
3. Yogurt
Yogurt is a probiotic; thus, it contains good bacteria. This aids in the balancing of the vaginal environment to eradicate the excess production of bad bacteria. The best way to use yogurt for BV treatment is by eating it. Use plain yogurt for best results.
4. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has excellent antibacterial and antifungal properties that will eradicate the odor and other symptoms of bacterial vaginosis. To use, mix a few drops of tea tree oil with one cup warm water and rinse your vagina with this mixture. Do this daily.
5. Tea Bags
Tea bags are a good home remedy for BV since they contain antibiotic properties that help lessen the irritation brought by this infection. Tea bags can be used by soaking them in a cup of warm water for 10-15 minutes. Let it chill in the refrigerator, and then apply the cold tea bag on the area of infection.
6. Garlic
Simply crush a few garlic cloves and gently apply them on the infected region for about 20 minutes and then wash it off with lukewarm water. Another method would be eating raw garlic or adding them into your meals.
7. Fenugreek
Fenugreek is a great immune system booster and pH level regulator to aid in the healing of BV. Grab a teaspoon of fenugreek powder and mix it with a cup of plain yogurt. Take it two times a day until the infection subsides. An alternative would be soaking fenugreek seeds (two tablespoons) in a glass of water. Let them soak overnight and drink it in the morning on an empty stomach.
8. Milk
Milk is an immune system booster and has lactobacillus that helps remedy bacterial vaginosis. Soak a tampon in chilled milk and then insert this in your vagina. Let it stay there for 1-2 hours before removing it. Alternately, you can drink a mixture of one teaspoon of turmeric powder and milk once a day.
9. Oregano Oil
Oregano oil has antibacterial properties that fight off the germs that caused BV. Simply mix a tablespoon of olive oil with 2-3 drops of oregano oil and apply it in the vaginal area. Let it sit for 2 hours before rinsing with lukewarm water. Be sure to select organic oregano oil, not those that have chemicals and alcohol content.
10. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is another type of oil that aids in the treatment of bacterial vaginosis. It is a natural antibacterial and antifungal ingredient that kills the bacteria that caused the infection. Use organic coconut oil and apply it to your vaginal area. Do this process three times daily until the symptoms subside.
In case of any side effects or irritation, consult your doctor immediately. Note that these top 10 home remedies treatments for bacterial vaginosis may work for some but not for everyone.