Natural Health: How can I treat my itchy vaginal thrush? 

Plus: natural ways of dealing with a winter vomiting bug
Natural Health: How can I treat my itchy vaginal thrush? 

Vaginal thrush occurs as a result of an imbalance of the bacteria Candida albicans. It is normal to have this bacteria present in the gastrointestinal tract and vagina; however, it can multiply out of control, which is what causes problematic symptoms such as thrush.

I tend to develop vaginal thrush, which leaves me with an unbearable itch, particularly before menstruation. I’ve tried the usual OTC pessaries, but I’ve yet to find a lasting solution.

Vaginal thrush occurs as a result of an imbalance of the bacteria Candida albicans. It is normal to have this bacteria present in the gastrointestinal tract and vagina; however, it can multiply out of control, which is what causes problematic symptoms such as thrush.

Women are eight times more likely than men to develop candida issues. The most common triggers are birth control use, oestrogen-based medications, antibiotic usage, and SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth).

Often, candida occurs alongside cystitis or urinary tract infections (UTIs), typically because repeated antibiotic treatment disrupts the balance of the microbiome. SIBO may be linked to candida infection because it affects digestion, immunity, and gut microbial balance.

One of the best solutions for the itch that you are experiencing is Intimate Care Cream by Kolorex. 

The company also offers a supplement that can be taken internally as part of a two-pronged treatment approach. The Kolorex range utilises the natural anti-fungal properties of a New Zealand native herb called Horopito (Pseudowintera colorata). Visit kolorex.com to find suppliers.

Diet is another crucial factor in treating and preventing thrush, with the elimination of sugar being the most critical step. 

To begin, you will need to eliminate all sugars –both processed and natural– including honey, maple syrup, dried fruit, and even fresh fruit, until your symptoms have subsided. Fortunately, this is not a lifelong change; it is simply a matter of getting your body back in balance.

You will also need to eliminate alcohol until you are feeling better. Instead, drink plenty of water throughout the day, and take herbal teas or broths to nourish your system.

Yeast- or mould-laden foods may also trigger candida overgrowth, which means avoiding marmite, bread, soft or blue cheeses, and kombucha. Even fungi need to be off the menu until your system is back in balance. 

Support your digestive system with a high-quality probiotic supplement, and incorporate garlic into your main meals for natural protection against fungi and yeast. 

Soluble fibre, such as psyllium husks, taken before bed can also help support detoxification and prevent the absorption of toxins, antigens, and particles from candida as it dies off.

My entire family picked up a vomiting bug two weeks ago – my husband got a particularly bad dose, while the children and I recovered more quickly. Regardless, we’re all feeling run-down and low in energy. What would you suggest?

It sounds like you have all had a particularly rough time of it.

Two herbal remedies are excellent to help restore immune function and replenish energy stores.

Liquorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) is an excellent natural remedy to help with adrenal fatigue and to bolster your immune system. It will also help to calm inflammation that may occur after bouts of vomiting.

This second herb is more commonly associated with pregnancy and childbirth. Raspberry leaf (Rubus idaeus) can help restore nutrients, reduce nausea and vomiting, and is a great standby to help prevent future stomach bugs..

Make a herbal infusion by adding one heaped teaspoon of dried herb per cup of near-boiling water, or use pre-made teabags. Both herbs can be taken either individually or together.

Raspberry leaf is also rich in nutrients such as calcium, iron, potassium, phosphorus, and vitamins A, C, and E, making it a great antioxidant brew. 

Drink the herbal infusion as either a hot or cold brew, and use honey to sweeten it if required, although liquorice root is already naturally quite sweet.

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