By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 09, 2024
10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Vaginitis
Herbal decoctions for vaginitis are a natural and effective way to alleviate symptoms of vaginal infections, inflammation, and discomfort.
These decoctions are made by steeping herbs in hot water, allowing their active compounds to be released and absorbed into the body. Herbs such as Marshmallow root, Chamomile, and Goldenrod have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that help soothe and heal the vagina, reducing symptoms of vaginitis such as itching, burning, and discharge.
By using herbal decoctions, women can find relief from chronic vaginal discomfort, improving their quality of life and overall well-being.
The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for vaginitis, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Turnera diffusa
- 2. Calendula officinalis
- 3. Echinacea purpurea
- 4. Papaver rhoeas
- 5. Plantago major
- 6. Althaea officinalis
- 7. Cinnamomum cassia
- 8. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 9. Melissa officinalis
- 10. Sambucus nigra
- What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for vaginitis?
- What ailments similar to vaginitis are treated with herbal decoctions?
1. Turnera diffusa
Damiana decoctions helps with vaginitis because of its unique ability to soothe and calm irritated vaginal tissue.
The herb contains flavonoids and terpenes that exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, reducing redness and swelling associated with the condition. Additionally, damiana has been shown to have antimicrobial effects, helping to combat fungal and bacterial infections that can contribute to vaginitis.
By promoting a healthy balance of vaginal flora and reducing inflammation, damiana decoctions provide natural relief from symptoms such as itching, burning, and discharge.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Turnera diffusa decoctions that help with vaginitis.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the growth of pathogens that cause vaginitis and alleviate associated inflammation.
- Flavonoids: Specifically, flavonoids like quercetin have been shown to have antifungal properties, which can help combat fungal infections like candidiasis that contribute to vaginitis.
- Saponins: These compounds have been found to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities, which can help soothe irritated tissues and prevent the growth of pathogens that cause vaginitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of damiana used to make decoctions for vaginitis.
- Roots: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which help alleviate symptoms of vaginitis.
- Leaves: They are used due to their antifungal properties, which help combat fungal infections causing vaginitis.
- Stems: They are used due to their antimicrobial properties, which help prevent the growth of pathogens causing vaginitis.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic damiana for vaginitis.
- Collect 20-30 grams of dried turnera diffusa leaves and flowers from a trusted supplier or harvest them sustainably outdoors.
- Gently combine the collected herbs with 500 milliliters of boiling water in a clean glass container to create a decoction.
- Allow the mixture to steep for 10-15 minutes in a warm dark place to extract the active compounds.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove the solids.
- Store the resulting herbal decoction in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before consuming it chilled.
2. Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold decoctions helps with vaginitis because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The decoction's flavonoids and terpenoids work to reduce inflammation in the vaginal tissue, providing relief from itching, burning, and discomfort. Additionally, the antifungal and antibacterial agents present in the decoction effectively combat bacterial overgrowth and yeast infections that can contribute to vaginitis.
By addressing these underlying causes, pot marigold decoctions offer a natural and effective way to soothe and heal vaginal irritations associated with vaginitis.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis decoctions that help with vaginitis.
- Saponins: Saponins help with vaginitis by exhibiting antifungal properties, which can reduce the growth of pathogenic fungi that cause the condition.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids contribute to the anti-inflammatory effects of Calendula officinalis, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with vaginitis.
- Naphthoquinones: Naphthoquinones display antimicrobial properties, inhibiting the growth of bacteria and other pathogens that can contribute to vaginitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make decoctions for vaginitis.
- Flowers: The flowers are used due to their high anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help soothe and heal vaginal infections.
- Leaves: The leaves are used due to their antibacterial and antifungal properties, which aid in reducing vaginal discharge and alleviating symptoms of vaginitis.
- Roots: The roots are used due to their ability to reduce inflammation and promote healing in the vaginal area, making them effective in treating vaginitis.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for vaginitis.
- Gather 10-20 grams of dried calendula flowers from a reputable source to ensure quality.
- Combine the dried calendula flowers with 500 milliliters of boiling water in a heat-resistant glass cup.
- Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes or until the liquid has cooled to room temperature completely.
- Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a clean glass container to remove solids completely.
- Store the calendula decoction in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
3. Echinacea purpurea
Purple coneflower decoctions helps with vaginitis because of its antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties.
The decoction's active compounds, such as triterpenoids and phenolic acids, target the underlying infections causing vaginal irritation and discomfort.
By reducing inflammation and killing off pathogens, purple coneflower decoctions alleviate symptoms like itching, burning, and abnormal discharge, promoting a healthy balance of vaginal flora and providing relief from vaginitis.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea decoctions that help with vaginitis.
- Icariin: This flavonoid glycoside has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help alleviate vaginitis symptoms by reducing inflammation and eliminating harmful microorganisms.
- Cichoric acid: This phenolic acid has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe and heal vaginal tissues, reducing irritation and discomfort associated with vaginitis.
- Alkylphenol glycosides: These compounds have antimicrobial properties, which can help eliminate pathogens, including bacteria and fungi, that may be contributing to vaginitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make decoctions for vaginitis.
- Roots: The roots of Echinacea purpurea are used to treat vaginitis due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
- Leaves: The leaves of Echinacea purpurea are used to make decoctions for vaginitis as they exhibit antimicrobial and antifungal activities.
- Flowers: The flowers of Echinacea purpurea are used to treat vaginitis due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which can help alleviate discomfort and promote healing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for vaginitis.
- Harvest 2-3 ounces of fresh echinacea purpurea flowers and leaves in the morning after the dew has dried.
- Dry the harvested plant material in a single layer in a warm place for 1-2 weeks.
- Chop 1-2 teaspoons of dried echinacea purpurea flowers and leaves into small pieces.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of the dried plant material in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a cup to remove solids.
4. Papaver rhoeas
Poppy decoctions helps with vaginitis because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The herbs used in the decoction, such as red poppy and blue poppy, contain compounds that soothe the vaginal tissue and reduce inflammation, alleviating symptoms like burning and itching. Additionally, the antimicrobial properties help to combat bacterial and fungal infections that can contribute to vaginitis.
By addressing these underlying causes, herbal poppy decoctions promote a healthy balance of flora in the vagina, reducing discomfort and improving overall women's health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Papaver rhoeas decoctions that help with vaginitis.
- Anthraquinones: These glycosides have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce inflammation and combat bacterial or fungal infections that may cause vaginitis.
- Flavonoids: These phenolic compounds possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of vaginitis by protecting tissues from oxidative damage and reducing inflammation.
- Alkaloids: These compounds have shown antimicrobial and antifungal activities, which can help eliminate pathogens that may contribute to vaginitis, promoting a healthy balance of the vaginal microbiome.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of poppy used to make decoctions for vaginitis.
- Roots: The roots of Papaver rhoeas are used to make decoctions for vaginitis due to their anti-inflammatory properties.
- Seeds: The seeds of Papaver rhoeas are used to make decoctions for vaginitis as they contain anthraquinones, which have antifungal and antibacterial properties.
- Leaves: The leaves of Papaver rhoeas are used to make decoctions for vaginitis as they contain flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have antimicrobial properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic poppy for vaginitis.
- Gather 25 grams of dried papaver rhoeas flowers and store them in an airtight container for future use.
- Weigh 10 grams of the dried flowers and add them to a 500 milliliter glass container.
- Add 250 milliliters of boiling water to the container and allow it to steep for 10 minutes.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a separate container and discard the solids immediately.
- Allow the decoction to cool to room temperature before transferring it to a dark glass bottle for storage.
5. Plantago major
Plantain decoctions helps with vaginitis because of its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.
The decoction's active compounds, such as cichoric acid and allantoin, help to reduce inflammation and alleviate discomfort associated with vaginal infections. Additionally, plantain's antimicrobial properties combat bacterial and fungal overgrowth, promoting a healthy balance of vaginal flora.
By soothing the irritated tissues and addressing the underlying infection, plantain decoctions provide natural relief from vaginitis symptoms, restoring the vagina's natural pH and reducing the risk of recurrence.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Plantago major decoctions that help with vaginitis.
- Apolypodin: This flavonoid glycoside may help with vaginitis by exhibiting antimicrobial properties, which could aid in reducing the growth of pathogenic bacteria or fungi that cause the condition.
- Apigenin: A flavonoid present in Plantago major, apigenin may help alleviate vaginitis symptoms by exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties, which could reduce inflammation and discomfort associated with the condition.
- Saponins: These glycosidic compounds found in Plantago major may help with vaginitis by exhibiting antifungal properties, which could aid in preventing the overgrowth of fungal pathogens that contribute to vaginitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of plantain used to make decoctions for vaginitis.
- Leaves: Their astringent and anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce inflammation and soothe irritated tissues in the vagina.
- Roots: They are used for their expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce discharge and inflammation associated with vaginitis.
- Seeds: They contain mucilage, which provides a soothing and protective barrier to irritated vaginal tissues, helping to alleviate discomfort and inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic plantain for vaginitis.
- Harvest fresh or dried plantago major leaves and flowers in a ratio of 1 part herb to 8 parts water.
- Combine the harvested herb with water in a saucepan and bring to a boil for 10 minutes.
- Reduce heat to a simmer and continue cooking for an additional 20 minutes or until the liquid has reduced.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
- Store the decoction in the refrigerator and discard after 3 days or use immediately as needed.
6. Althaea officinalis
Marshmallow decoctions helps with vaginitis because they have anti-inflammatory properties that soothe and calm irritated vaginal tissues.
The mucilages present in marshmallows create a protective barrier, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with vaginitis. Additionally, marshmallow decoctions have antifungal and antibacterial properties, which can help combat underlying infections contributing to the condition.
By promoting healing and reducing discomfort, herbal marshmallow decoctions offer a natural and effective approach to managing vaginitis symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Althaea officinalis decoctions that help with vaginitis.
- Mucilages: Mucilages help soothe and protect irritated mucous membranes, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with vaginitis.
- Polysaccharides: Polysaccharides, specifically galactomannans, exhibit antimicrobial properties, which help combat bacterial and fungal infections that may contribute to vaginitis.
- Althaea root flavonoids: Flavonoids have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to reduce inflammation, oxidative stress, and tissue damage associated with vaginitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of marshmallow used to make decoctions for vaginitis.
- Roots: Althaea officinalis roots are the most commonly used part for making decoctions due to their high mucilage content.
- Leaves: Althaea officinalis leaves are also used for their mucilaginous properties, which help soothe and calm irritated tissues.
- Stems: Althaea officinalis stems contain mucilage, which is used in decoctions to provide relief from vaginitis symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic marshmallow for vaginitis.
- Harvest 3 to 6 pounds of fresh root of the medicinal plant.
- Wash the harvested root under cold running water to remove any dirt.
- Cut the washed root into small pieces to increase its surface area.
- Steep 1 to 2 ounces of the cut root in 1 quart of boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
7. Cinnamomum cassia
Cassia decoctions helps with vaginitis because of its potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The herbs used in these decoctions, such as cassia twig and radix rehmaniae, have been traditionally used to treat a range of gynecological issues, including vaginitis. By reducing inflammation and combating infection-causing pathogens, cassia decoctions can help alleviate symptoms of vaginitis, promoting healing and relief from discomfort.
Additionally, these herbs may also help regulate the body's natural flora, supporting overall vaginal health and well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cinnamomum cassia decoctions that help with vaginitis.
- Cinnamaldehyde: This phenolic compound has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce bacterial and fungal infections that can cause vaginitis.
- Coumarin: This phenolic compound exhibits anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to soothe and protect the vaginal tissues from irritation and damage caused by vaginitis.
- Cinnamic acid: This phenolic compound has antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, which can help to reduce the growth of pathogenic microorganisms and prevent further inflammation and damage to the vaginal tissues.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of cassia used to make decoctions for vaginitis.
- Rhyzomes: Cinnamomum cassia's rhyzomes are commonly used to make decoctions for vaginitis because of their antifungal and antibacterial properties that help combat vaginal infections.
- Barks: Cinnamomum cassia's barks are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can aid in reducing inflammation and promoting healing of the vaginal tissues.
- Buds: Cinnamomum cassia's buds are utilized because of their antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, which can help alleviate symptoms and promote the overall health of the vaginal area.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic cassia for vaginitis.
- Gather 2-3 tablespoons of cinnamomum cassia bark and rinse it under cold running water for 2-3 minutes.
- Combine the cinnamomum cassia bark with 8 cups of water in a medium-sized saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the cinnamomum cassia decoction steep for 10-15 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean container discarding the solids.
- Allow the decoction to cool to room temperature before refrigerating it for up to 3 days.
8. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice decoctions helps with vaginitis because it has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that soothe and calm the vaginal tissues, reducing discomfort and pain associated with vaginitis.
The licorice root extract also exhibits antimicrobial activity, combating harmful bacteria and yeast that can contribute to vaginitis.
Additionally, licorice decoctions have been shown to balance the body's natural pH levels, promoting a healthy vaginal environment that is less susceptible to infection and inflammation.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra decoctions that help with vaginitis.
- Licoricidin: Licoricidin, a triterpenoid saponin, has anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate the symptoms of vaginitis by reducing inflammation and discomfort in the vaginal area.
- Glycyrrhizin: Glycyrrhizin, a triterpenoid saponin, has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help combat bacterial vaginosis and other infections causing vaginitis, promoting a healthy vaginal microbiome.
- Licorice flavonoids: Licorice flavonoids, including isoliquiritigenin and liquiritigenin, possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help protect the vaginal mucosa from oxidative stress and inflammation, supporting the treatment of vaginitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make decoctions for vaginitis.
- Roots: They are commonly used due to their high content of glycyrrhizin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties that helps alleviate vaginitis symptoms.
- Barks: Barks of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used because they contain a range of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and saponins, which have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, making them useful for treating vaginitis.
- Leaves: Leaves are often employed in traditional medicine for their antifungal and antibacterial properties, which can help combat fungal infections causing vaginitis.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for vaginitis.
- Harvest 30-40 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots from a trusted supplier or a well-known source.
- Crush the dried roots into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for optimal release.
- Combine 3-5 grams of the powdered root with 1 liter of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
- Steep the mixture for 10-15 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse into the water.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container for consumption.
9. Melissa officinalis
Lemon balm decoctions helps with vaginitis because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which can soothe and calm irritated vaginal tissues.
The decoction's antimicrobial effects also help to combat bacterial or fungal overgrowth that can contribute to vaginal infections. Additionally, lemon balm has been shown to regulate hormonal imbalances, which can exacerbate vaginal health issues.
By promoting a healthy balance of flora in the vagina, lemon balm decoctions may help alleviate symptoms such as itching, burning, and abnormal discharge associated with vaginitis.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis decoctions that help with vaginitis.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has antimicrobial properties, which can help combat bacterial and fungal infections causing vaginitis.
- Linalool: As a terpene, linalool has anti-inflammatory properties that can soothe and calm vaginal irritation and discomfort associated with vaginitis.
- Limonene: This terpene has antimicrobial and antifungal properties, which can help reduce the risk of infections and promote a healthy vaginal environment.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make decoctions for vaginitis.
- Leaves: Used for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help alleviate vaginitis symptoms.
- Flowers: Employed for their antiseptic and antifungal properties, which aid in combating vaginal infections.
- Roots: Utilized for their astringent and antiseptic properties, which help in soothing and protecting the vaginal mucosa.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for vaginitis.
- Harvest fresh melissa officinalis leaves in late spring or early summer for optimal potency and flavor.
- Rinse the leaves thoroughly with cold water to remove dirt and debris from the harvest site.
- Chop 1-2 teaspoons of melissa officinalis leaves into small pieces to increase their surface area for infusion.
- Steep the chopped herb in 1 cup of boiling water for 5-10 minutes to release its bioactive compounds.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove solids.
10. Sambucus nigra
Elder decoctions helps with vaginitis because its antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties combat the underlying causes of vaginal infections.
The elder plant's ability to reduce inflammation in the genital tract soothes symptoms such as itching, burning, and discharge. Additionally, the antimicrobial properties of elder decoction help eliminate fungal and bacterial infections that can cause vaginitis, promoting a healthy vaginal environment.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to effectively treat vaginitis, providing relief from discomfort and promoting overall reproductive health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sambucus nigra decoctions that help with vaginitis.
- Isoflavones: Isoflavones, such as isorhapontigenin, have antimicrobial properties that help combat bacterial vaginosis and other infections associated with vaginitis.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, including chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid, exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities that may reduce inflammation and promote healing in the vaginal area.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, including quercetin and kaempferol, possess antifungal and antimicrobial properties that can help combat fungal infections and other microbial imbalances that contribute to vaginitis.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of elder used to make decoctions for vaginitis.
- Flowers: The flowers are used due to their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help in soothing and treating vaginal infections.
- Leaves: The leaves are used due to their astringent properties, which aid in reducing inflammation and controlling infection in the vaginal area.
- Roots: The roots are used due to their antiseptic properties, which help in eliminating bacteria and other pathogens that cause vaginitis.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic elder for vaginitis.
- Gather 25-30g of dried sambucus nigra flowers in a clean container for future use.
- Combine the dried flowers with 250ml of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the mixture steep for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
- Allow the decoction to cool before transferring it to an airtight container for storage.
What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for vaginitis?
The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with vaginitis is a blend of calendula, chamomile, and goldenseal.
Calendula's anti-inflammatory properties soothe the affected area, while chamomile's antifungal properties combat infections. Goldenseal's antibacterial properties help to reduce bacterial overgrowth. Combine equal parts of dried calendula, chamomile, and goldenseal, and steep 1 teaspoon in 1 cup of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
Strain and drink 2-3 times a day to help alleviate vaginitis symptoms.
What ailments similar to vaginitis are treated with herbal decoctions?
Ailments similar to vaginitis/decoctions.html">vaginitis/decoctions.html">vaginitis that are treated with herbal decoctions are urinary tract infections, cystitis, and urethritis.
Herbs such as uva ursi, marshmallow root, and corn silk have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that help soothe and heal the urinary tract.
Decoctions made from these herbs can also be used to treat kidney stones, incontinence, and frequent urination.