Feminine yeast infections can also be very painful causing burning, itching, and even bleeding. The condition can also spread to the outlying area. Men can be infected as well, especially from a partner that has a yeast infection. For men, there is equivalent pain, burning, itching, and raw skin. It may start with just the itching and can progress to open sores that look like the underside of a blister, exposing the raw lower layers of the epidermis.
Essential oils have been used for centuries in the treatment of a variety of ailments and yeast is no exception. But essential oils are more than an antiquated remedy. They have been and continue to be studied by scientists of today to evaluate their true worth in treating common conditions.
A recent study cited by the National Institutes of Health, performed at a University in Japan, demonstrated the effectiveness of lemongrass essential oil in the treatment of candida albican infections. The scientists also studied patchouli, thyme, and cedarwood as helpful essential oils for inhibiting yeast growth and killing yeast. The results indicated that lemongrass could be a highly effective alternative to over-the-counter anti-fungal medications.
For the treatment of vaginal yeast infections, the most common of yeast infections, it is recommended to use a base of plain (unsweetened, unflavored) yogurt. Plain yogurt contains probiotics that help kill yeast infections and does not contain yeast-feeding sugars like sweetened yogurt. Add three or four drops of lemongrass oil to four ounces of yogurt and stir. Using exceptionally clean fingers, apply the solution to the inside of the vagina. You can also add three to five drops of tee tree oil, an equally powerful antifungal. The solution can also be placed into the vagina using a cream tube from an over-the-counter anti-fungal yeast treatment. But again, be sure it is completely sanitary.