Natural Yeast Infection Treatments That Actually Work

Many people look for natural and gentle ways to support their body when dealing with a yeast infection. While antifungal medications remain the standard treatment recommended by healthcare professionals, some natural remedies may help ease discomfort, support recovery, and promote a healthier balance in the vaginal area.

This evidence-informed guide explains which natural strategies can help support comfort, which ones require caution, and how to use them safely alongside medical treatment.

Important: These remedies are supportive, not replacements for medical treatment. Always seek advice from a doctor, GP, nurse, or pharmacist if you’re unsure what’s causing your symptoms.

Quick Comparison of Popular Natural Support Options

*Boric acid should ONLY be used externally or vaginally as directed — never orally, never during pregnancy, and only with medical guidance.

1. Probiotics for Vaginal & Gut Health

A growing number of women use probiotics as part of their long-term vaginal wellness routine.
Probiotics containing strains such as Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus reuteri are commonly used to support a balanced microbiome.

While probiotics alone won’t “treat” an active yeast infection, many people find they help:

• Support digestion and gut flora
• Maintain a healthy vaginal environment
• Reduce the chance of recurrent imbalances
• Complement antifungal treatment

Probiotics are especially popular for individuals who experience yeast infections after:

• Antibiotics
• Stress or hormonal changes
• Dietary imbalance

For more on preventive strategies, see our guide:
How to Prevent Yeast Infections Naturally

2. Coconut Oil for External Comfort

Coconut oil is widely used as a natural skin soother thanks to its light moisturising properties.
It may help reduce dryness or irritation on the external vulval skin.

Important: Coconut oil is for external use only. It should not be inserted into the vagina, especially during an active infection, as oils may disrupt natural balance.

3. Warm Sitz Baths for Itch Relief

A sitz bath is a shallow bath where you sit in warm (not hot) water for 10–15 minutes.
This simple remedy may help soothe:

• Itching
• Burning
• Redness
• Mild swelling

You can enhance the comfort by using:

• Plain warm water (recommended)
• Oatmeal sachets for skin soothing

Avoid adding vinegar, perfumed products, or harsh substances to the water — these can irritate sensitive tissue.

4. pH-Balanced Feminine Wash for Gentle Daily Care

The vagina cleans itself internally — so douching is never recommended.
However, the external vulva can benefit from a gentle, fragrance-free, pH-balanced wash used with warm water.

A mild wash can help:

• Support natural pH
• Reduce irritation from perfumed shower gels
• Promote comfort and cleanliness

5. Boric Acid Suppositories (Advanced Support With Medical Guidance)

Boric acid vaginal suppositories are sometimes used under medical guidance to help balance vaginal pH.
They are not a first-line treatment and are not suitable during pregnancy.

Safety rules:

• Never take boric acid orally — it is toxic when swallowed
• Never use during pregnancy or when trying to conceive
• Only insert vaginally as directed
• Do not use on broken or irritated skin

If you experience repeated infections, see our guide:
Why Yeast Infections Keep Coming Back — and How to Stop Them

Natural Remedies to Avoid

Some online “natural yeast infection cures” can actually make symptoms worse or damage delicate vaginal tissue. Avoid inserting or applying:

• Garlic cloves
• Undiluted tea tree oil
• Vinegar douches
• Lemon juice
• Hydrogen peroxide
• Baking soda mixtures

Why avoid these?
They can irritate sensitive tissue, disrupt natural pH, or worsen inflammation.

Can Natural Remedies Cure a Yeast Infection?

Natural remedies can support comfort and vaginal health, but they do not replace medical antifungal treatments.
If you suspect a yeast infection, speak to a pharmacist, doctor, or sexual health clinic for appropriate diagnosis and treatment options.

Natural approaches are best for:

• Reducing irritation
• Soothing discomfort
• Supporting recovery alongside treatment
• Long-term vaginal wellness

For primary treatment guidance, view our main guide:
Yeast Infection Treatment 2025 Guide

When to Seek Medical Advice

Contact a healthcare professional if:

• This is your first time having these symptoms
• You’re not sure it’s a yeast infection
• Symptoms do not improve after treatment
• You experience yeast infections frequently
• You are pregnant
• You have diabetes or a weakened immune system

FAQs About Natural Yeast Infection Remedies

Are natural remedies safe?

Some can be helpful for comfort, but not all are safe for use inside the vagina.
Always research ingredients carefully and talk to a healthcare professional if unsure.

Can probiotics cure a yeast infection?

Probiotics do not replace antifungal treatment but may help support long-term balance.

Is coconut oil safe?

It may soothe external vulval skin but should not be inserted inside the vagina.

Do natural remedies work faster than medication?

Medical antifungal treatments remain the standard recommended approach for clearing an active infection.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information only and does not replace medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional regarding symptoms or treatment choices.