Herbal Treatments for Bacterial Vaginosis
Are there any herbs that can help me with BV?
Herbs had been mankind’s life savers from times immemorial. In fact, they were the primary method of treatment of various ailments, till allopathic drugs made their appearance. However, despite the quick and effective over the counter drugs, there are herbal remedies for almost all the common ailments, including bacterial vaginosis. These remedies are certainly a godsend for those who dread the side effects of allopathic drugs.
Understanding herbal remedies for bacterial vaginosis
The use of herbs had been discovered centuries ago and has continued till date. The good news is it forms an important part of bacterial vaginosis natural remedies and includes a variety of antifungal, antiseptic and immune-strengthening agents. These herbs not only help strengthen the immune system, but are also extremely effective in preventing a recurrence. They work both directly and indirectly on the body. The ingredients of herbs are generally found in their roots, stems, leaves or fruits. In fact, certain allopathic drugs also make them a part of their composition.
Bacterial vaginosis herbal treatment
There are certain common and not so common herbs that have proven effective in bacterial vaginosis treatment. Let’s see what they area:
a. Tea tree oil:
Tea tree oil has antimicrobial properties that are especially effective in the home treatment of bacterial vaginosis. It can be used vaginally through tea tree oil soaked tampons, douches and suppositories. It can also be added to the essential oil bath or a warm sitz bath, along with pure apple cider vinegar to get rid of bacterial vaginosis.
b. Aromatic essential oils:
Aromatic essential oils, like lavender oil mixed with myrrh, with apricot kernel oil as a carrier, is an excellent bacterial vaginosis home remedy. This oil is used on the outer lips of the vagina, but may burn a little, if the vagina is very irritated.
c. Black walnut
(Juglans nigra): Juglone, a compound isolated from black walnut, fights bacteria and has proven an effective bacterial vaginosis herb. If you’re using black walnut at customary dosage levels, it poses no problems. However, if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, you should first consult your physician.
d. Pau d’arco
(Tabebuia impestiginosa): This natural herb is derived from the inner bark of the Taheebo tree of South America. Its healing powers are legendary. Pau d’arco tea is recommended for the treatment of many diseases, including bacterial vaginosis.
e. Coneflower
(Echinacea angustifolio): The root of this herb is considered one of the best blood purifiers and an effective antibiotic. It activates the body’s immune system increasing the chances of fighting off any disease. This popular herb has been used to help cure bacterial vaginosis. However, it shouldn’t be used by anyone allergic to the sunflower family.
f. Garlic
(Allium sativum): Often called ‘nature’s antibiotic’, this sure cure for a number of ailments, is effective against bacterial vaginosis too, because of its strong antibacterial properties. It can be taken both orally or vaginally. A peeled whole garlic clove, wrapped in gauze, can be inserted into the vagina. It can also be used as douches or in suppository form. This herb also prevents bacterial vaginosis recurrence.
g. Witch hazel:
This shrub or small tree derives its name from the shape of its leaves that resemble those of the hazel. Its leaves and bark show astringent qualities that are effective against bacterial vaginosis.
h. Herbal douche:
A douche made from sage, raspberry leaf, mullein, goldenseal root and apple cider vinegar with a tiny drop of tea tree oil added is a good bacterial vaginosis cure.
As with many herbs, medical supervision is always advised. So, if you’re going in for natural cure for bacterial vaginosis using herbs, don’t forget to consult your physician.