5 Natural Remedies Against Vaginal Odor
Although these topical remedies to neutralize vaginal odor usually help, it is advisable to go to the gynecologist to rule out major problems. In this space we tell you more about it.
Vaginal odor is a worrying symptom for most women. In fact, it is one of the most frequent reasons for gynecological consultation in the world. In general, it can be accompanied by other symptoms such as vaginal itching, burning, and discharge.
If so, receiving professional care is essential, as it can be caused by infections that require specific medical treatment. While there are some natural remedies that seem to temporarily ease this symptom, they should not be the first choice against this problem.
Common causes of vaginal odor
According to information published on the Cleveland Clinic website , vaginal odor can be caused by an infection or inflammation. Often this occurs because certain factors create an imbalance in the bacteria that normally inhabit the vagina. Specifically, its causes include:
- Bacterial vaginosis.
- Trichomoniasis.
- Rectovaginal fistula.
- Cancer of the vagina and cervix.
Of course, bad odor does not always indicate a serious problem. Sometimes it is just a sign of hormonal imbalances or consequences of diets rich in foods such as garlic, onion, flour, etc. In addition, it is sometimes a symptom influenced by other factors.
Risk factor’s
- Wear tight-fitting underwear or synthetic material.
- Unprotected sex.
- Take antibiotics frequently.
- Parasitosis
- Urinary or fecal incontinence.
How to combat vaginal odor: 5 natural remedies that help
Before trying any remedy against vaginal odor, it is important to readjust intimate hygiene habits, since this symptom often arises from there. In this sense, the Mayo Clinic recommends:
- Wash the external genital area. In doing so, use a minimal amount of mild, unscented soap and plenty of water.
- Avoid douching. In their normal state, all healthy vaginas contain bacteria and yeast. In general, the acidity of the vagina maintains its balance; however, showers can alter it and increase the risk of infection.
Now, according to this same entity, it is important to go to a gynecological consultation, especially when the bad smell is accompanied by other symptoms.
Although natural remedies help calm you down, they are not a first-line treatment and are not a substitute for conventional treatment. Therefore, the professional’s recommendations should be followed first.
1. Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is an acidic ingredient that has shown activity against some types of fungi and bacteria. It should be used in moderation, in small amounts, since in excess it is irritating. However, according to anecdotal data, it can be useful in regulating vaginal pH changes.
In fact, in a case published by the journal Alternative Therapies In Health And Medicine , a 32-year-old woman managed to overcome symptoms of a vaginal infection using apple cider vinegar. Its application controlled the bad smell, itching and pain in the area.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar (40 ml).
- 2 cups of lukewarm water.
How to apply it?
- Dilute the apple cider vinegar in the cups of warm water.
- Later, it uses the liquid to wash the external areas of the vagina.
- To finish, rinse regularly.
2. Tea tree essential oil
Thanks to its antibacterial and antiseptic properties, tea tree oil helps against vaginal odor caused by vaginal infections. In addition, it reduces inflammation.
In particular, this oil is useful for treating infections caused by Candida Albicans strains , as detailed in a study published in BioMed Research International . Thanks to its antifungal activity, it helps stop the growth of these yeasts and contributes to recovery.
Ingredients
- 5 drops of tea tree essential oil
- 1 cup of warm water (250 ml)
How to apply it?
- To start, add the 1st drops of tea tree oil to the cup of warm water.
- Then put the mixture in a suitable container and use it to wash the vaginal area.
- Do the procedure twice a week.
3. Vitamin C
As detailed by research published in the European Journal of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology , vitamin C applied vaginally has the ability to increase the acidity of the vagina, inhibiting the growth of bacteria associated with bacterial vaginosis. Therefore, this remedy can serve as an adjuvant for bad odor.
Ingredients
- ΒΌ teaspoon of vitamin C powder (3 g)
- 1 cup of water (250 ml)
How to apply it?
- First, mix the vitamin C with the water.
- Then, use the liquid to wash the outer areas of the vagina.
- You should consult your doctor about the periodicity and time of use, since in excess it can be irritating to the vaginal mucosa.
4. Fenugreek tea
Fenugreek is one of the natural ingredients that can help against this symptom. The reason? As compiled by a publication in Molecular Nutrition & Food Research , this plant has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal properties that, in this case, could help stop the growth of infectious microorganisms.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon of fenugreek seeds (10 g)
- 1 glass of water (200 ml)
Utensils
- 1 mortar
How to apply it?
- With the help of the mortar, grind the tablespoon of fenugreek seeds.
- Next, bring the glass to a boil with water and once it reaches a boil, remove it from the heat.
- Add the fenugreek seeds to the hot water and let it steep for 15 minutes.
- You can drink the infusion hot or cold, according to your taste.
5. Infusion of margosa against vaginal odor
According to information published in Current Medicinal Chemistry , this plant, also called neem , has antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties that may be helpful in inhibiting the growth of fungi and bacteria in the intimate area. For this reason, there are those who suggest that it helps reduce odor.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons of margosa leaves (30 g)
- 1 cup of water (250 ml)
How to apply it?
- Prepare an infusion with the margosa leaves and the water.
- Then, when it is warm, use the liquid to wash the outer parts of the intimate area.
- Repeat its use the next day if the discomfort persists.
- Suspend its use and rinse with plenty of water in case of observing any unfavorable reaction.
Recommendations to avoid vaginal odor
In addition to using the aforementioned remedies, there are another series of basic care that can help eliminate vaginal odor. If you have this problem, put them into practice.
- Wear cotton clothing.
- When washing your clothes, do not combine underwear with the rest.
- Use neutral soap.
- Wash your intimate area before and after each sexual intercourse.
- Tight clothing is not recommended.
- Sponges irritate the vaginal area.
- Don’t use deodorants, talcum powder, or perfume.
- Every time you go to the bathroom, clean the vagina from front to back (never the other way around).
Prioritize gynecological care
These natural remedies for vaginal odor can be helpful in managing the symptom while seeking gynecological care. It is important to consult, because often the bad smell is the sign of a greater problem, such as an infection by bacteria or fungi.
