What are the best natural remedies for bacterial vaginosis? How can oregano oil help cure BV? Discover the top home remedies for people and pets.

Addressing Bacterial Vaginosis with Natural Therapies

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a common vaginal condition caused by an imbalance in the natural bacteria found in the vagina. Normally, Lactobacillus bacteria predominate, but in BV, other organisms like Gardnerella and Bacteroides can overgrow, leading to symptoms like vaginal discharge, itching, and pain. While standard antibiotic treatments are often used, they can sometimes lead to recurrent infections and antibiotic resistance.

For women who have not found success with traditional treatments, natural therapies may offer a promising alternative. These can include essential oils, tinctures, and other plant-based compounds that have demonstrated antibacterial and antifungal properties.

Oregano Oil: A Potent Natural Remedy for BV

One natural compound that has garnered attention for its ability to address bacterial vaginosis is oregano oil. Oregano oil contains a compound called thymol, which is a naturally occurring antimicrobial agent. Research has shown that thymol and other compounds found in oregano oil can be effective in reducing the growth of the bacteria associated with BV.

How can oregano oil be used to treat BV? Some suggested methods include applying a few drops of the oil directly to a tampon and inserting it into the vagina for 1-3 hours, or creating a homemade douche using diluted oregano oil. It’s important to note that essential oils can be irritating, so it’s always a good idea to perform a patch test first to ensure tolerance.

Other Natural Remedies for Bacterial Vaginosis

In addition to oregano oil, there are several other natural compounds that may be helpful in addressing bacterial vaginosis:

• Tea tree oil: This essential oil has well-documented antimicrobial properties and may help restore the natural balance of vaginal bacteria.
• Lavender oil: Known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory effects, lavender oil may provide relief for the symptoms of BV.
• Garlic tincture: Garlic has long been recognized for its antimicrobial and immune-boosting properties, making it a potential natural treatment for BV.
• Grapefruit seed extract: This compound has been shown to have broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, including against the bacteria associated with BV.

Lifestyle Factors to Consider

In addition to incorporating natural remedies, it’s important to address lifestyle factors that may be contributing to bacterial vaginosis. Some key considerations include:

1. Avoiding tight-fitting, synthetic undergarments and opting for breathable, cotton options.
2. Steering clear of harsh soaps, perfumes, and other irritants that can disrupt the vaginal microbiome.
3. Managing stress, as elevated stress levels can impact the immune system and make you more susceptible to infections.
4. Abstaining from sexual activity during treatment to prevent the reintroduction of bacteria.
5. Avoiding the consumption of substances that can contribute to an imbalance in vaginal pH, such as caffeine, alcohol, and sugar.

Cautions and Considerations

While natural remedies can be a promising approach for addressing bacterial vaginosis, it’s important to exercise caution and consult with a healthcare provider before using any new treatment. Some essential oils and herbal compounds can interact with medications or cause adverse reactions, particularly in pregnant women, breastfeeding women, or individuals with certain medical conditions.

It’s also crucial to monitor the effectiveness of any natural treatment and be prepared to seek traditional medical care if symptoms persist or worsen. Bacterial vaginosis can sometimes be a sign of a more serious underlying condition, and prompt medical attention is essential to avoid potential complications.

Exploring Natural Remedies for Pets

The benefits of natural remedies for bacterial vaginosis are not limited to humans. Pets, particularly female dogs and cats, can also experience similar vaginal imbalances and infections. Some of the same natural compounds that may be helpful for people, such as oregano oil and tea tree oil, have also been explored as potential treatments for pet-related vaginitis and other genitourinary issues.

However, it’s crucial to consult with a veterinarian before attempting to treat a pet with any natural or home remedies. Improper use of these compounds can be harmful to animals, and a professional assessment is necessary to ensure the safety and efficacy of any natural approach.

Conclusion

Bacterial vaginosis can be a frustrating and persistent condition, but the exploration of natural therapies, such as oregano oil, may offer a promising alternative for those who have not found success with traditional treatments. By addressing lifestyle factors, incorporating evidence-based natural remedies, and consulting with healthcare providers, individuals can take a more holistic approach to addressing this common vaginal health issue.

Natural Therapies for Vaginitis — POYNOR HEALTH

So why does a gynecologic oncologist / pelvic surgeon write about yeast infections and bacterial vaginosis? Well, women with cancer and those women who are post menopausal and cannot use estrogens, may have difficult to treat vaginal infections which may become immune to repeated use of antibiotics and antifungals. Thus, natural therapies may be helpful for these difficult problems. The below information is not meant to be a medical recommendation, but should be reviewed with your physician.

Natural Therapies for Bacterial Vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis (also called BV) is caused by a change in the balance in the bacteria of the vagina. Normally, Lactobacillus bacteria predominate in the vagina, however in bacterial vaginosis other organisms such as Gardnerella and Bacteroides may be over represented. Symptoms of vaginal discharge, itching and pain may ensue when these other organisms overgrow and result in a shift the balance of the vaginal flora. The delicate ecosystem can be knocked out of balance by antibiotics, spermicides, birth control pills, and shift in vaginal ph. Normally, the dominant organism of the vagina, Lactobacillus, also makes the vagina too acidic for other organisms to grow and survive. For some women, probiotic treatments with Lactobacillus may be helpful for common genitourinary problems such as bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections, and recurrent urinary tract infections.

Bacterial vaginosis can be difficult to treat, and many times the infection may return after the standard antibiotic treatments, due to the development of antibiotic resistance and persistence of instigators.  These standard antibiotic treatments include: oral Flagyl, Metrogel (topical Flagyl), clindamycin cream, and tinidazole. For some women who: have failed antibiotic treatments, are not pregnant, not planning to get pregnant in the near future, or do not demonstrate signs of pelvic inflammatory disease, natural therapies may be attractive. Indeed, studies are being conducted in order to determine and isolate the active agents in Lactobacillus and other natural therapies that help hold other organisms in check. Studies are also being performed with thymol and eugonal, natural antibacterial and antimycotic active ingredients extracted from plants. These treatments have been found in clinical studies to decrease exposure to antibiotics in the treatment of bacterial vaginosis. Eugenol is a liquid extracted from essential oils such as clove oil, nutmeg, cinnamon, basil and bay leaf. Thymol is a naturally occurring anti microbial (including anti-bacterial and anti-fungal) and is found the essential oil of oregano.

Basic steps in the treatment of bacterial vaginosis include:

1. Attention to lifestyle:

Avoid: synthetic and tight fitting undergarments and thongs. Undyed, white cotton underwear is the best (not so sexy – but functional).

Avoid: harsh soaps, perfumes

Avoid: poorly managed stress

Abstain: from intercourse during treatment

Avoid: caffeine, alcohol, sugars, processed foods, vinegar, and soy sauce

2. Treat the symptoms:

Aloe Vera gel may help with itching. Echinacea tincture may decrease inflammation

3. Treat the bacteria:

Essential oils and tinctures may be helpful

Tea tree oil

Lavender oil

Oil of oregano

Neem oil

Goldenseal tincture

Garlic tincture

Grapefruit seed extract

All of these compounds are natural, but that does not mean that they cannot have side effects. For example: neem oil has been reported to cause hepatotoxicity (liver toxicity), oil of oregano can cause allergic reactions and can interact with lithium. Goldenseal and garlic may have multiple drug interactions. None of these agents should be used in pregnant or breast-feeding women, women who are planning to get pregnant in the near future, very young women and adolescents. Echinacea should not be used in women with autoimmune conditions. Some has advocated black walnut, however it contains a compound, which may a carcinogen and thus should be avoided.

For most of these oils or tinctures, a few drops may be placed on a tampon and then placed in vagina for 1 to 3 hours, or applied directly with fingers. Vaginal suppositories may be also compounded with these agents. Any of the anti bacterial treatments may be caustic or allergenic, and a small test area should be treated first to see how you react.

A douche may also be used such as: 24 oz. distilled water, 2 chamomile tea bags, 6 drops of tea tree oil, 5 drops of lavender oil and 1 drop of thyme oil. Brew the chamomile tea first and then place the oil in the tea and disperse. This can be used after cooling as a douche two times a day. Alternatively, one tablespoon of tea tree oil can be mixed with 2 cups of water as used as a douche. Another douche reported to be helpful is: one teaspoon of grapefruit seed extract with 2 cups of water.

A vaginal ointment may also be compounded with tea tree oil such as: 6 drops of tea tree oil, 1 tablespoon of aloe Vera gel (vitamin E oil or cocoa butter can also be substituted). This ointment can directly be applied to the vagina or placed on a tampon and inserted into the vagina.

Some women report that hydrogen peroxide may be helpful, but must always be diluted. For example ¼ cup of 3% medical hydrogen peroxide can be mixed with 2 cups of water and used as a douche.

4. Creation of healthy vaginal environment (pH):

Vinegar douche: mix in a ½ vinegar and ½ water solution

5. Introduction of beneficial bacteria:

Lactobacillus suppositories and oral probiotics

A probiotic is a live micro-organism (bacteria) that is administered to confer a health benefit to a host (person). Lactobacillus is a type of bacteria that helps keep the vaginal ecosystem healthy by production of substances that keep other bacteria in check. There is evidence that the beneficial bacteria, L. rhamnosus GR-1 and L. reuteri RC-14, provide significant safeguards against vaginal disorders. Lactobacillus acidophilus suppositories (Vivag, Pharma Vinci A/S, Denmark) and vaginal tablets (Gynoflor, Medinova, Switzerland) may be effective. Researchers also found that vaginal capsules Lactobacillus gasseri and Lactobacillus rhamnosus, seem to lengthen the time between vaginal infections. Lactobacilli products require refrigeration for optimal potency. The label should always state the strain names and the amounts (cfu, or colony forming units – should be in the 1-10 billion range). Supplementing with 5-10 billion colony-forming units (cfu) of the Lactobacilli strains GR-1 and RC-14 each day may also be recommended.

Probiotic-rich foods include the following: kefir, yogurt with live cultures, dark chocolate, miso, pickles. Sourdough bread, fruits such as bananas and tomatoes, vegetables such as artichokes, green beans and leeks, whole grain breads.

Caution: women with a weakened immune system should always review with their physician if the use of probiotics is safe. Individuals who are using steroids or other immunosuppressants should be careful with these types of medications. There may be some concern that Lactobacillus may cause problems in these individuals.

Notes on interactions for reviewed remedies: The safety of these topical remedies for you should always be reviewed with your physician, who knows and understands your health conditions. These remedies should not be used in pregnant or breast-feeding women; those who are planning to become pregnant, young girls or adolescents.

Aloe Vera Topical

The aloe plant produces two substances, gel and latex, which are used for medicines. Aloe gel (many times referred to as aloe Vera) is the clear, jelly-like substance found in the inner part of the aloe plant leaf and aloe latex comes from just under the plant’s skin. Aloe gel has properties that are harmful to certain types of bacteria and fungi. Allergic reactions may occur with aloe gel and dermatitis may develop after prolonged usage. In order to ensure a lack of sensitivity to the gel, women should always use a small test patch of skin for application prior to more intensive applications. Individuals who have diabetes or are on medications for diabetes should be cautious, as aloe gel might decrease blood sugar.

Echinacea Topical

Echinacea is an herb that is native to North America and was used in traditional herbal remedies by the Great Plains Indian tribes. From 1916-1950 Echinacea was listed on the United Sates national Formulary, however its use fell out of favor due to the development of antibiotics and lack of proven benefit. Echinacea may help to decrease inflammation and may also directly attack yeast directly. It can be used as a topical cream to fight yeast and bacterial infections.  Echinacea may cause allergic reactions, and is most likely to cause allergic those who are allergic to ragweed, mums, marigolds, or daisies. Applying Echinacea to the skin can cause redness, itchiness, or a rash. Women with autoimmune disorders such as: multiple sclerosis (MS), lupus (SLE) or rheumatoid arthritis (RA), should not use Echinacea.

Tea Tree Oil Topical

Tea tree oil is an extract from a plant native to Australia and has been used traditionally as a topical antiseptic and antifungal treatment. This oil may cause allergic reactions, blistering, redness, and itching. It may aggravate eczema.

Lavender

Lavender is an herb, and the flower and the oil of lavender are used to make medicine.

Oil of Oregano Topical

Oregano is a plant and the leaf is used to make medicine. Oil of oregano may cause allergic reactions, especially in those who have an allergy to plants in the Lamiaceae family (basil, hyssop, lavender, marjoram, mint and sage).

Neem Oil Topical

Neem is a tree and the bark, leaves, and seeds are used to make medicine. It may help to kill bacteria. Women with autoimmune disorders such as: multiple sclerosis (MS), lupus (SLE) or rheumatoid arthritis (RA), should not use neem oil as it cause these diseases to become more active. It should also not be used in women with a history of an organ transplant. There is some evidence that neem can decrease blood sugar levels and should be used with caution in women who have diabetes. Medications that interact with neem include: lithium, diabetes medications, immunosuppressants and transplant medications,

Goldenseal

Goldenseal is an herb found in North America, and the dried root is used to make medicine. Goldenseal contains the chemical berberine, which may have effects against bacteria and fungi. For example, it can prevent the bacteria from binding to urinary tract walls, and help to prevent urinary tract infections). Goldenseal interacts with cyclosporine, digoxin, and medications that are metabolized in the liver and P-Glycoprotein substrates.

Garlic Tincture

Garlic is an herb and has been used to prevent or treat a wide range of diseases and conditions. Garlic oil may be applied to the skin to treat fungal infections,

Allicin is the active ingredient and the source of garlic’s distinctive odor. Manufacturing processes that remove the odor, also remove the active agent, limiting its effectiveness. It may be used topically in concentrations of 1%. Garlic may burn the skin. It may also increase clotting times and should be discontinued before surgery. Garlic can interact with TB medications, HIV medications, birth control pills, cyclosporine, medications changed by the liver, and anticoagulants.

Grapefruit Seed Extract

The fruit, oil from the peel, and extracts from the seed can all be used to create medicine from grapefruit. Grapefruit seed extract can be used as a douche for the treatment of yeast and bacterial vaginosis. Grapefruit interacts with a number of medications and as always, its use should be reviewed with your physician.

The Benefits of Wild Oregano Oil For Women’s Vaginal Health | V-Luxe

You probably heard about oregano as a popular Italian seasoning that we all love to sprinkle over pizza and pasta. More than its amazing flavor, wild oregano oil (a different form of the spice oregano) has incredible medicinal properties that can help us women with vaginal health!

Please note that when we refer to wild oregano oil in this article, we are not talking about oregano oil as an essential oil. The essential oil form is not meant to be consumed. The wild oregano oil we’ll be discussing is a high-potency extract that can be consumed orally as long as it’s taken with a carrier oil (we’ll talk about this in a bit!).

Why Wild Oregano Oil?

Wild oregano oil extract has been used for years by the ancient Greek and Roman civilizations for medicinal purposes. The name “oregano” originates from the Greek words “oros” and “ganos”, meaning mountain and joy.

Wild oregano oil is often referred to as the “natural antibiotics”. The reason for that is that wild oregano oil has antibacterial properties that can help you fight bad bacteria without harming the good bacteria in your body. This is different than traditional prescribed antibiotics which kill both good and bad bacteria and can cause recurring infections (for example, recurring bacterial vaginosis and recurring UTIs).

Wild oregano oil contains powerful antioxidant compounds that are called phenol, terpenes, and terpenoids. Scientists believe that the following 3 components are responsible for the many health benefits we can get from the wild oregano oil:

Carvacrol: this is the most powerful phenol in the wild oregano oil. Carvacrol has been shown to stop the growth of several types of bad bacteria that can cause infections (including vaginal infections). It’s important to make sure the wild oregano oil you choose to buy is standardized to at least 50% carvacrol.

Thymol: a natural anti-fungal (great for yeast infections that are usually caused by Candida!), that will boost your immune system and act as protection against toxins.

Rosmarinic Acid: this is a powerful antioxidant that works to protect us against free radicals.

Click here to purchase our V-Luxe Oregano Oil (capsule form, no after-taste).

Click here to purchase our best-selling probiotics to prevent and fight bacterial vaginosis, yeast infections, and UTIS.

Wild Oregano Oil to Help With Vaginal Health-

Natural Antibiotics (for BV and UTI): As we previously mentioned, Carvacrol may be extremely beneficial against common types of bad bacteria. Scientists agree that more research should be conducted to see exactly how wild oregano oil can be used as an alternative to traditional antibiotics. We do know that many types of bad bacteria can become resistant to traditional antibiotics and that we definitely need to find an alternative. This could be extremely beneficial to women who are suffering from recurring bacterial vaginosis and recurring UTIs, especially if it seems like the traditional antibiotics don’t get rid of their infections anymore.

Works Against Candida (for yeast infections): Wild oregano oil works by interacting with the yeast cells and killing the membrane of the yeast buds. A few test-tube studies found that oregano oil was able to inhibit the growth of 16 different strains of candida (yeast causing fungi). More research is needed in this area of course to determine if oregano oil could replace the current traditional treatment for yeast infections.

Additional Benefits:

1) May help with gut health by killing parasites that cause diarrhea, pain, and bloating.

2) May have anti-inflammatory properties.

3) A few studies indicated that Carvacrol may have cancer-fighting properties. Test-tube studies have shown promising results of the Carvacrol inhibiting the growth of lung, liver, and breast cancer cells. We definitely need more studies in this area!

How to Use the Wild Oregano Oil?

1) You can buy wild oregano oil extract in a liquid or capsule form. If you choose the liquid form, you’ll need to consume it with a carrier oil (olive oil, grape-seed oil, etc). We typically find it much easier to consume wild oregano oil in a capsule form. The V-Luxe Wild Oregano Oil already includes the carrier oil and it is standardized to 70% Carvacrol. This flavor of the wild oregano oil is very potent and a lot of people find it hard to take in the liquid form. You can purchase the V-Luxe Wild Oregano Oil here.

2) Do not take the wild oregano oil if you are actively trying to get pregnant, are pregnant, or breastfeeding.

3) Take the V-Luxe Wild Oregano Oil when you feel a flare up of BV, yeast infection, or UTI. You can take it 1-3 times a day, with a meal. We recommend you don’t take the V-Luxe Wild Oregano Oil for more than 7 consecutive days at a time.

4) As always, we recommend you consult with your doctor before you start taking this supplement.

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In the cold season (and not only), many are looking for a magical remedy that can get rid of colds and protect the immune system, which is continually shaken by stress and the weather outside. Skeptics claim that this cannot be found. However, it exists! Few people know about the beneficial properties of oregano oil.

Contents of the article

Do not self-medicate! In our articles, we collect the latest scientific data and the opinions of authoritative health experts. But remember: only a doctor can diagnose and prescribe treatment.

Oregano oil: the story behind

Oregano sounds proud and beautiful. One immediately imagines a miracle grass that grows somewhere across the ocean on the slopes of the rocky mountains. In fact, this name hides the familiar oregano, which is also found in Russia. Her grandmother’s small, light purple flowers are often added to herbal teas, and the light green leaves are a good seasoning for meat.

The plant was known in ancient Greece, it was believed that it has not only anti-inflammatory, but also a calming effect. In the Middle Ages, small light purple oregano flowers were often sewn into pillows or placed at the head of the head, which should promote a restful sleep. Most often, the grass was collected during flowering (in July-August) and dried. In this state, it could be safely stored for a whole year.

But also the most valuable essential oil was extracted from oregano leaves. But this is a laborious and costly business: only 1 kg of oil is obtained from 1 ton of raw materials.

Oregano oil in folk medicine

In folk medicine, oregano was often used in the treatment of colds. To do this, they combined honey (literally a teaspoon) with 2 drops of oil and took this medicine twice a day. With warm compresses, which, in addition to the oregano product, includes a decoction of flax seeds, they tried to get rid of pain in the joints with arthritis, as well as sciatica.

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It was believed that if you rub oregano oil on your gums, it will only strengthen them and get rid of inflammation. Taking a couple of drops orally, people tried to eliminate the effects of food poisoning, snake bites, spiders and bees. Oregano oil was smeared on purulent wounds, burns, rubbed into the nail plates in order to strengthen and get rid of the fungus.

This product is recommended for women in menopause. Healers believed that oregano oil relieves pain and unpleasant consequences. And, of course, it was this drug that was remembered first of all if it was about indigestion, colitis and weight loss.

Oregano oil in cosmetology

It was believed that oregano oil also has a beneficial effect on the condition of the skin, restoring tone, healthy color even to a fading face, eliminating wrinkles. With the help of this remedy, they fought acne, papillomas, dandruff and hair loss. At the same time, the oil is used both in its pure form and in combination with other products, such as jojoba or coconut oil.

Oregano oil as a remedy for dandruff

To get rid of dandruff, just add a few drops of oregano oil to your favorite shampoo. For one “portion” for washing – about 4-5 drops of the product. You need to wash your hair like this every day. Within a week, dandruff will disappear.

Oil of oregano for acne and pimples

You can also add a couple of drops of oregano oil to your tonic or lotion to combat pimples and acne. But it is best to mix it with calendula oil in a one to one ratio and gently apply every morning and evening on inflammation and blackheads.

Oregano Oil Benefits

Oregano oil has a spicy floral aroma with hints of camphor, wood and tea. The color varies from light yellow to brown with a golden sheen. But the main wealth of the product is in its composition, which includes:

• Vitamins
• Macro and microelements
• Carvacrol, known for its antibacterial action
• Thymol, which is considered a natural antiseptic
• Catechin, which has anti-inflammatory and promotes rejuvenation of the body
• Phenolic acids
• Flavonoids, plant pigments that are antioxidants

Oregano oil heals wounds healing wounds, this property is now proven by science. Of particular interest in this regard is the study of an ointment with oregano extract and its effect on wound healing after operations.

Oregano oil helps to lose weight

Carvacrol in the oil helps reduce the risk of obesity. This is good news, but so far only confirmed by rodent studies. However, the study of oregano oil and its association with weight loss continues.

Oregano oil has anti-inflammatory properties

Researchers have found that oregano oil has anti-inflammatory properties. And this means that it has a fairly wide range of actions: the product can protect against malignant tumors, diseases of the heart, nervous system, and even from the effects of toxic drugs.

Oregano oil improves bowel function

The same anti-inflammatory effect of the product has proven itself in the treatment of certain bowel diseases. For example, there is scientific evidence that oregano oil protects this internal organ and kills pathogenic microflora. True, the studies were conducted on animals, so more extensive experiments will be required.

Oregano oil can cure stomatitis

Studies have shown that oregano oil has the ability to stop the development of fungal infections. Scientists have proven that this product is good for treating oral candidiasis and stomatitis.

Oregano oil is a powerful antioxidant

Scientists have found that oregano oil has a high concentration of antioxidants. These include carvacrol, thymol and rosmarinic acid. These substances work to strengthen the immune system, protecting against the occurrence and development of a variety of diseases. They also slow down aging, allowing you to keep youth as long as possible.

Oregano oil regulates cholesterol levels

The very same carvacrol found in oregano oil can regulate cholesterol levels, as studies with rodents have proven. However, tests were also carried out on people with a high level of this substance in the body. Those volunteers who consumed oregano oil successfully lowered their cholesterol.

Possible harm of oregano oil

Oregano oil is not recommended for children under 5 years of age and pregnant women, it can cause allergic reactions in them. It is worth remembering that this tool can adversely affect the absorption of iron.

People suffering from diabetes should use oregano oil very carefully. This drug lowers blood sugar, so it is better to consult a doctor before using it.

How to choose and store oregano oil

When choosing an oil, you should look at the content of carvacrol, it should be at least 70%. Usually on a quality product are indicated: expiration date, composition, place of collection of raw materials. If you purchase a product on the site, be sure to pay attention to security certificates.

Oregano oil is usually stored at room temperature in a fairly dark place where there is no direct sunlight.