By: @shatiachesson
A women’s body goes through various changes through adolescence to adulthood, pregnancy, then menopause. Throughout every stage of a women's life, taking good care of their yoni and paying attention to when something might be off is very important as it can give valuable insight into their overall health.
In general, yoni health is an important part of a woman’s overall health. Urinary tract infections, yeast infections, bacterial/fungal infections, itching and dryness, discharge, and painful sex are a few common concerns women tend to face at least once in their lifetime. Outside of maintaining good hygiene and lifestyle habits, there are many foods and herbs that women can experiment with to support their yoni's health.
Neem
Neem is a bitter tasting herb with antibacterial, antiseptic and astringent properties. This herb influences the circulatory, respiratory, digestive and urinary systems. Being an antibacterial and antifungal herb, it helps to suppress bacterial and yeast infections in the vagina. It can be taken in the form of a concoction or oil as per the advice of your ayurvedic doctor.
Manjistha
Manjistha is known for its antitumor properties and it is also an astringent. It mainly helps with problems relating to the circulatory and reproductive systems. It’s known for its blood-purifying properties and helps to control bleeding. You can take Manjistha in the form of a powder, paste or a decoction.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a useful plant from the cacti family. The anti-fungal, antimicrobial and antiseptic properties can help curb the overgrowth of any infection-causing fungi or bacteria. Apply a thin layer of freshly extracted aloe vera gel over the affected area and let it dry naturally. Wash with warm water and wipe dry.
Brahmi (Water Hyssop)
Brahmi is known as a rejuvenating herb. Brahmi improves immunity and has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. It can be taken in the form of an oil, concoction or infusion as per your doctor's advice.
Yashti Madhu (Mulethi)
Yashti Madhu is known for its rejuvenating, sedating, and tonic properties. It acts on the digestive, respiratory and reproductive systems. This herb helps remove “kaph” from the stomach and lungs. It also helps in treating vaginal infections like candidiasis. It can be taken with milk, decoction or with ghee as per your doctor’s advice.
Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)
Chamomile is soothing to the nerves, is pain relieving, and possesses anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, antibacterial, and sedative properties. Best known to soothe the stomach, chamomile’s antispasmodic properties help alleviate nausea and are an excellent ally when dealing with uterine cramping. It can be taken many ways, but it is typically brewed as a hot tea paired with honey.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a very common root that is best known for its antibacterial properties. It contains an enzyme called curcumin which acts as an antifungal and helps eradicate yeast infections.
Using herbal medicines is an ancient, gentle and effective way to support women’s hormonal health in every phase of their life. As always, consult with a trusted healthcare practitioner prior to supplementing with any herbs.
References:
https://www.healthline.com/health/womens-health/vaginal-steaming
