13 Natural Remedies For Bacterial Vaginosis: Effective Ways To Treat BV

Bacterial Vaginosis, commonly known as BV, is a typical vaginal infection many women experience. It happens when there's an imbalance of bacteria in the vagina, leading to uncomfortable symptoms. Women in their reproductive years are the most affected, but BV can touch women of any age.

While antibiotics can effectively treat BV, they sometimes come with unwanted side effects. Thankfully, natural remedies offer a gentle alternative that may help soothe symptoms without the risks associated with medication.

Exploring Natural Remedies for BV

Natural remedies can be a kinder approach to managing BV, involving dietary tweaks, herbal supplements, and lifestyle changes. These methods aim to restore the vagina's natural bacterial balance, creating a healthier environment. Here are 13 natural remedies that might help alleviate BV symptoms:

Thyme

Thyme is a natural herb that has antimicrobial properties and can be used to treat bacterial vaginosis (BV). BV is caused by an overgrowth of bacteria in the vagina, and thyme can help fight against this bacterial overgrowth.

One way to use thyme for BV is to make a thyme tea. To make the tea, steep a handful of fresh or dried thyme leaves in hot water for 10-15 minutes. Once the tea has cooled down to a comfortable temperature, use it to rinse the vaginal area. This can be done once or twice a day to help reduce inflammation and fight against harmful bacteria.

Another way to use thyme for BV is to add it to your bathwater. Adding a few drops of thyme essential oil to your bathwater can help reduce inflammation and promote healing. However, it is important to dilute the essential oil before adding it to your bathwater as it can be irritating if used undiluted.

Probiotics

Probiotics can be effective in treating bacterial vaginosis (BV) by restoring the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina. Probiotics are live microorganisms that are beneficial to the body and can be found in certain foods, supplements, and topical treatments.

One way to use probiotics for BV is to consume them orally through foods or supplements. Consuming probiotic-rich foods such as yogurt, kefir, and fermented vegetables can help increase the number of beneficial bacteria in the gut and vagina. Additionally, taking a probiotic supplement containing Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium bifidum can help restore the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina and prevent the overgrowth of harmful bacteria.

Another way to use probiotics for BV is to apply them topically to the vagina. Probiotic suppositories or vaginal gels containing Lactobacillus bacteria can be inserted into the vagina to restore the natural balance of bacteria and reduce inflammation.

Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a natural remedy that has been used to treat various health conditions, including bacterial vaginosis (BV). ACV contains acetic acid, which has antimicrobial properties that can help kill the harmful bacteria causing BV.

One way to use ACV for BV is to add a cup of it to a warm bath and soak for 20-30 minutes. The acidic properties of the ACV can help reduce inflammation and kill the harmful bacteria in the vagina. It is important to dilute the ACV before adding it to your bathwater, as undiluted ACV can cause irritation and discomfort.

Another way to use ACV for BV is to create a vaginal douche by mixing 2 tablespoons of ACV with 1 cup of warm water. Use the mixture to douche the vaginal area, holding the liquid inside for a few minutes before releasing it. This can be done once or twice a day to help restore the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina and reduce BV symptoms.

Garlic

Garlic is a natural remedy that has been used for centuries to treat various health conditions, including bacterial vaginosis (BV). Garlic contains allicin, a compound that has antimicrobial properties that can help kill the harmful bacteria causing BV.

One way to use garlic for BV is to insert a garlic clove into the vagina. Peel a fresh garlic clove and wrap it in gauze or cheesecloth to create a makeshift suppository. Insert the garlic into the vagina before bed and remove it in the morning. This can be done for several days until the BV symptoms subside.

Another way to use garlic for BV is to add it to your diet. Consuming raw garlic or taking garlic supplements can help boost your immune system and increase your body's ability to fight off harmful bacteria. Additionally, consuming garlic can help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the vaginal area.

Tea tree oil

Tea tree oil is a natural remedy that has been used to treat various health conditions, including bacterial vaginosis (BV). Tea tree oil contains terpenoids, which have antimicrobial properties that can help kill the harmful bacteria causing BV.

One way to use tea tree oil for BV is to add a few drops of it to a warm bath and soak for 20-30 minutes. The antibacterial properties of the tea tree oil can help reduce inflammation and kill the harmful bacteria in the vagina. It is important to dilute the tea tree oil before adding it to your bathwater, as undiluted tea tree oil can cause irritation and discomfort.

Another way to use tea tree oil for BV is to create a vaginal suppository by mixing a few drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil such as coconut oil or olive oil. Soak a tampon in the mixture and insert it into the vagina before bed. Remove the tampon in the morning and repeat the process for several days until the BV symptoms subside.

Yogurt

Yogurt is a natural remedy that can be effective in treating bacterial vaginosis (BV). Yogurt contains probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that can help restore the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina.

One way to use yogurt for BV is to consume it orally. Eating plain, unsweetened yogurt that contains live and active cultures can help increase the levels of beneficial bacteria in the gut and vagina. This can help prevent the growth of harmful bacteria that cause BV.

Another way to use yogurt for BV is to apply it topically to the vagina. This can be done by soaking a tampon in plain, unsweetened yogurt and inserting it into the vagina for 1-2 hours. This can be repeated several times a day until the BV symptoms subside. The probiotics in the yogurt can help restore the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina and reduce the overgrowth of harmful bacteria.

Cranberry juice

Cranberry juice is a natural remedy that has been shown to be effective in treating bacterial vaginosis (BV). Cranberry juice contains proanthocyanidins, which are compounds that can help prevent the growth and adhesion of harmful bacteria in the urinary tract and vagina.

One way to use cranberry juice for BV is to consume it orally. Drinking unsweetened cranberry juice daily can help prevent the growth of harmful bacteria in the urinary tract and vagina. It is important to choose unsweetened cranberry juice, as sugar can feed the harmful bacteria and worsen BV symptoms.

Another way to use cranberry juice for BV is to apply it topically to the vagina. This can be done by soaking a tampon in unsweetened cranberry juice and inserting it into the vagina for 1-2 hours. This can be repeated several times a day until the BV symptoms subside. The proanthocyanidins in the cranberry juice can help prevent the growth and adhesion of harmful bacteria in the vagina.

Boric acid

Boric acid is a natural remedy that can be effective in treating bacterial vaginosis (BV). Boric acid has antifungal and antibacterial properties that can help reduce the overgrowth of harmful bacteria in the vagina.

Boric acid can be used topically in the form of suppositories. These can be inserted into the vagina once or twice a day for several days until the BV symptoms subside. It is important to note that boric acid should only be used under the supervision of a healthcare provider, as it can be toxic if not used correctly.

It is also important to note that boric acid should not be used by pregnant women or people with kidney disease. Boric acid can also cause irritation or burning in some people, so it is important to stop using it if these symptoms occur.

Aloe vera

Aloe vera is a natural remedy that can be effective in treating bacterial vaginosis (BV). Aloe vera has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the overgrowth of harmful bacteria in the vagina and soothe any irritation or inflammation.

Aloe vera gel can be applied topically to the vagina to help alleviate BV symptoms. It can be applied directly to the affected area or used as a douche by mixing it with water. To use it as a douche, mix one tablespoon of aloe vera gel with one cup of water and use it to rinse the vagina.

It is important to note that while aloe vera can be effective in treating BV, it should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment. If you are experiencing BV symptoms, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Coconut oil

Coconut oil is a natural remedy that can be effective in treating bacterial vaginosis (BV). Coconut oil has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the overgrowth of harmful bacteria in the vagina and soothe any irritation or inflammation.

Coconut oil can be applied topically to the vagina to help alleviate BV symptoms. It can be applied directly to the affected area or used as a vaginal suppository by melting the coconut oil and pouring it into a clean, sterile tampon applicator or using a silicone suppository mold. The suppository can be inserted into the vagina and left in overnight or for a few hours.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a natural remedy that can be effective in treating bacterial vaginosis (BV). Vitamin C has antioxidant properties that can help boost the immune system and reduce the overgrowth of harmful bacteria in the vagina.

Vitamin C can be taken orally as a supplement or applied topically to the vagina in the form of a vitamin C tablet or capsule inserted into the vagina. Vitamin C tablets can be crushed and mixed with a small amount of water to create a paste that can be applied directly to the affected area.

Echinacea

Echinacea is a natural remedy that can be effective in treating bacterial vaginosis (BV). Echinacea has immune-boosting properties that can help the body fight off infections, including bacterial infections.

Echinacea can be taken orally as a supplement or applied topically to the vagina in the form of a cream or gel. It is important to follow the dosage instructions on the label or as directed by a healthcare provider.

# Chamomile Tea

Chamomile is an excellent anti-inflammatory oil that can be beneficial for easing swellings, pain, and inflammation. Its relieving and soothing effects on the skin makes it a preferred remedy for bacterial vaginosis. It will relieve the symptoms and heal the infected area.

Put a tea bag of chamomile into a cup containing hot water. Remove the tea bag after a minute and refrigerate for ten minutes. Place the bag inside the vagina, and squeeze so the water can go deep down to reach all the affected area. Repeat this twice daily until the infection clears out.

It is important to note that natural remedies may not be effective in treating all cases of BV and should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment. If you suspect you have BV or have been diagnosed with the condition, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment. They can provide guidance on the appropriate use of natural remedies alongside medical treatments.