Leukorrhea is the presence of a white-, gray- or green-colored discharge from the vagina. The discharge frequently originates from the cervix, but may stem from the ovaries, the fallopian tubes, or the vagina itself. If the discharge is white, thin and relatively odorless, it is considered normal. Normal leukorrhea may also develop in adolescent girls a few months to a year after they start their periods, a condition known as physiologic leukorrhea, in newborn girls, usually lasting one to two months, and pregnant women. However, if the discharge is green or yellow, has an unpleasant smell, or is accompanied by itching, irritation, pain or tissue inflammation, it could indicate infection. If this is the case, you will need to see a healthcare professional.

Causes of Leukorrhea

Leukorrhea is usually considered normal, as long as there is no itching, discomfort, irritation or odor. Leukorrhea may be solely because of hormonal changes, such as an increase in estrogen levels. However, the discharge may be caused by a sexually transmitted disease (STD) or other vaginal infection, particular if it is green- or yellow-colored, or has a foul odor. Abnormal discharge may also stem from other health conditions, such as diabetes or anemia, or from poor personal hygiene, for example if a tampon is left in vagina for too long. Trauma or injury to the vagina may also produce leukorrhea.

Home Remedies for Leukorrhea

Leukorrhea can be treated with both prescribed and over-the-counter drugs; however, there are also many home remedies for vaginal discharge. If you are pregnant, it is important to consult with your doctor before trying any of these treatments.

1. Use Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar has acidic and antiseptic qualities, and is great for balancing the body's natural pH and re-establishing the acidic conditions of the vagina, as well as improving odor.

How to Use:

• Try drinking 1-2 tablespoons of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar added to a glass of water daily.
• Alternatively, you can wash your vagina once or twice a day with a mixture consisting of equal amounts of distilled water and apple cider vinegar for a few days, although some doctors say that douching your vagina could upset the natural balance of vaginal flora.

2. Try Fenugreek Seeds

Fenugreek seeds help to balance the vaginal pH levels, and are thought to enhance the immune system and influence estrogen levels.

How to Use:

• Boil 2 teaspoons of seeds in 4 cups of water for 30 minutes.
• Strain the water and let it cool.
• Wash the vagina 3 or 4 times a day with this water until your symptoms subside.
• You can also try soaking a teaspoon of fenugreek seeds in a cup of water overnight. Strain the water the following morning, mix in half a teaspoon of honey, and then drink this on an empty stomach.

3. Use Banana

Banana is an excellent home remedy for vaginal discharge. In addition to relieving leukorrhea symptoms, bananas soothe the digestive upsets and fatigue that often accompany the condition.

How to Use:

• Eating 1-2 over-ripe bananas a day will help control the discharge.
• Also try mixing 2 tablespoons of banana flower juice with 2 teaspoons of powdered Palmyra candy and drinking this daily.
• Keep up with these remedies every day until your symptoms are under control.

4. Try Fig

Figs can help relieve leukorrhea and act as a laxative to help flush out damaging toxins and waste from your body.

How to Use:

• Take 2 to 3 figs and soak them in water overnight.
• The following morning, blend these figs in the water and drink this before you have breakfast.
• You can also grind fig tree bark with an equal quantity of banyan tree bark into a fine powder. Add 1 tablespoon of this powder in 2 cups of water and use this as a vaginal wash.

5. Use Okra

Okra aids the removal of mucus from your system, which should lessen leukorrhea.

How to Use:

• Weigh out 100g of okra, then chop this into small pieces.
• Boil the okra in 2 cups of water for 20 minutes until the water is reduced by half.
• Strain this solution, then divide it into three portions.
• Take one of these portions mixed with a little honey 3 times a day until your symptoms are relieved.

6. Maintain Proper Hygiene

One simple step to reduce leukorrhea is to have good personal hygiene. Stop bacterial build-up and allow the genital area to breathe by always wearing fresh clean underwear made from a non-synthetic material. If you have wet or damp undergarments, make sure you change out of these as soon as possible. Irritant-free soaps, such as those that contain glycerin, are usually free from dyes and scents, and can be used to remove dirt and bacteria. However, whilst you need to stay clean, over-washing may cause irritation, and result in an infection or heavier discharge.

7. Eat a Well-Balanced Diet

Make sure you eat plenty of nutrient-rich fruit and vegetables, and cut down on sugary and processed foods in order to keep your body in good condition and functioning normally. As well as improving your overall health, a good diet may also help relieve the symptoms of leukorrhea. In addition, ensure that you drink the recommended 8-10 glasses of water each day in order to flush toxins out of your body.

8. Take Exercises

Too much stress or heavy exertion may cause heavier discharge, so try to reduce the strain you place on your body. Exercise is important for overall health, but opt for low-impact exercises, such as yoga, and try meditation, both of which have been shown to reduce stress. However, some health conditions may be exacerbated by exercise, so remember to consult with a healthcare professional before embarking on any new exercise regime.

Tips

• Congestion in the pelvic region may be relieved by cold water baths or hydrotherapy. For the best results, practice hydrotherapy every day.
• Avoid canned foods, and any fried, spicy or white flour-based foods. Also try to cut back on tea, coffee, alcohol and spicy flavorings, such as pepper and mustard.
• Aromatherapy oils are an effective natural home remedy for vaginal discharge. Rosemary and sandalwood, in particular, have anti-infective properties, and soothe many of symptoms of leukorrhea.
• Avoid using deodorants, sprays and synthetic garments whilst you are treating the leukorrhea, as these can act as irritants.