Yeast Infections

Yeast infections are a result of a mixed pitta and kapha disorder. To heal them, first one has to follow a proper diet, which must not increase either pitta or kapha. Strictly avoid sugar, fermented food, and yeast-containing bread. Ideally, it is best to follow a diet that is pitta-soothing, but not kapha-provoking. The best way to manage this balance is to look in the food charts for each doshic type (see chapter 8) and favor foods in the “yes” column for both kapha and pitta.

EFFECTIVE HERBAL REMEDY. A potent herbal formula that will help to heal a yeast infection is:

turmeric ¼ teaspoon
licorice ½ teaspoon
shardunika ¼ teaspoon

Take this complete mixture (1 teaspoon of herbs) twice a day with warm water until your symptoms are gone.

DOUCHE FOR VAGINAL YEAST INFECTION. If the yeast infection is vaginal, you will find it helpful to douche with licorice tea. Boil 1 tablespoon of licorice powder in 1 pint of water for 5 minutes. Cool, strain, and use that tea for the douche. You will notice the healing effect quickly.

NOTE: If you have a thick discharge from the genitals, along with an itching and burning sensation, it will be better to do the douche with triphala tea instead of licorice. Use the same procedure: take 1 tablespoon of triphala, boil it in a pint of water, cool, strain, and use the tea as a douche.