Natural health: Is there a remedy for vaginal thrush?

Diet is important when it comes to getting candida under control and back in balance; eliminating sugars is the first step. Picture: iStock 

For the first time in my life, I have developed vaginal thrush. It's itchy and very uncomfortable. Is there a safe, natural remedy I could take? I'm in my late 30s.

Women are eight times more likely than men to develop an issue with candida imbalance. I use the term imbalance rather than infection since it is normal to have Candida albicans in the gastrointestinal tract and vagina, however it is problematic when it multiplies out of control.
Overgrowth of candida often occurs in individuals who have long-term issues with cystitis or urinary tract infections as these tend to lead to repeated antibiotic treatment.