Candida infections in women are extremely common and depend on an altered balance of the factors that regulate the defensive capacity of the vaginal and intestinal mucous membranes.
Candida is the most common vaginal infection and the one women are most unhappily familiar with. It often occurs alongside influenza or other ailments, affects sexual life, and persistently recurs during periods of stress and before menstruation. The symptoms are the classic whitish discharge, resembling curdled milk, accompanied by itching, burning and redness. In one in five cases the partner is also infected. Conventional treatments involve the use of antifungal medications, which are often not enough to prevent recurrences.
The choice is crucial — ideally one with an acidic pH and based on calendula, which has a soothing and emollient effect, excellent against inflammation. Propolis-based cleansers are also excellent: they are very gentle and help prevent irritation and inflammation. In cases of severe irritation, use only water and bicarbonate of soda: this simple idea is also a very good remedy during an acute episode.
During your period, it is better to use natural cotton or hypoallergenic sanitary towels. If you are used to internal protection, remember to change it every 2–3 hours. Panty liners should be avoided altogether, as they make the mucous membranes too dry and strip away all the protection the genital area needs. Underwear must be exclusively cotton.
It is essential to restore the vaginal environment and rebuild the body's defences. Use lactic acid bacteria, especially when undergoing antibiotic treatment, and avoid leavened and sugary foods. Cow's milk and cow's milk cheeses should be eliminated; goat's or sheep's milk is preferable. Watch out for yeast: no pizza, brioches or focaccia. Sweet foods should also be avoided; replace white sugar with honey or fructose.
For recurring candida, Melaleuca Alternifolia is ideal: it is a plant of Australian origin, and its essential oil is an ingredient in many gynaecological creams that are excellent against candida. From New Zealand come the seeds of the pepper tree (Pseudowintera Colorata), used in cream form but also as tablets, to be taken to combat intestinal candida. Finally, the remarkable grapefruit seeds, which can also be used in capsule form, or as a vaginal douche or local cream.
