Home Remedies for Yeast Infections in Children

Yeast infections are fairly common in children, especially after a round of antibiotics. According to babycenter.com, antibiotics kill off all bacteria, even the "good" kind that keeps yeast from overproducing. Yeast thrives in warm, wet environments, which is why toddlers and infants experience frequent yeast infections due to the moist environment of a diaper. The areas infected generally include the buttocks, thighs and genital area. Children can also get an oral yeast infection called thrush. Home remedies help treat current and prevent future yeast infections 3.

Tea Tree Oil

Known for its anti-viral and antibacterial qualities, tea tree oil is an essential used to treat yeast infections 3. Boil 1/2 cup of water and allow to cool completely. Once cooled, add 5 drops of tea tree oil to the water 2. Clean the infected area with the tea tree oil mixture 2. Tea tree oil can irritate the skin or cause a rash, do not use it in its concentrated form. Never allow children to ingest tea tree oil as even a small amount can cause severe side effects such as nausea, confusion, abdominal pain and hallucinations. Use the mixture as long as necessary until infection has healed.

Yogurt

Plain yogurt contains lactobacillus acidophilus, "good" bacteria, that helps stop yeast from spreading in the body. Feed yogurt to children who have oral or topical yeast infections. Yogurt can also be applied directly to the infected area, make sure to use unflavored, plain yogurt. Use a cotton ball to dab a layer of yogurt to the infection. Continue to apply yogurt for one week.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Fill a bath with warm water and add a cup of apple cider vinegar. Allow child to soak in the bath to relieve discomfort or itching while the infection heals. Do this every day until the infection has healed. Apple cider vinegar has anti-fungal properties that help treat yeast infections. Always dilute apple cider vinegar, because it may burn or irritate skin if applied directly.

Baking Soda

Clean the child's buttocks with a mixture of 1 tsp. baking soda and 1 cup water. Use a cotton ball or swab to dab the solution on the infected area or inside a child's mouth who suffers from oral thrush. Rub the mixture on the cheeks, gums and tongue. Mix a new solution every day. Children can also soak in a baking soda bath to soothe the infected area; add 2 tbsp. baking soda to a few inches of water. Continue daily until infection heals.