Best Herbs for Bacterial Vaginosis

Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is the most common vaginal infection in women of reproductive age, affecting an estimated 21.2 million women in the United States alone. Characterized by an imbalance in the vaginal microbiome, BV occurs when beneficial Lactobacillus bacteria decline and harmful anaerobic bacteria overgrow. While antibiotics are the standard medical treatment, many women experience recurrent infections—with 50 to 80 percent of cases returning within a year of treatment. This high recurrence rate has led many to explore complementary approaches, including herbs for bacterial vaginosis that may help support vaginal health and a balanced microbiome.

 

In this article, we’ll discuss what bacterial vaginosis is, its symptoms and causes, and explore the best herbs for BV that are supported by scientific research. We’ll also cover supplements and lifestyle practices that may support vaginal health.

 

Important: Bacterial vaginosis requires proper medical diagnosis. The information in this article is educational and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. If you suspect you have BV, please consult with your healthcare provider.

 

What Is Bacterial Vaginosis?

 

 

Bacterial vaginosis is a condition that occurs when the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina is disrupted. A healthy vagina maintains a moderately acidic pH between 3.8 and 5.0, primarily sustained by beneficial Lactobacillus bacteria that produce lactic acid and hydrogen peroxide. When these protective bacteria decline and are replaced by an overgrowth of anaerobic organisms—such as Gardnerella vaginalis, Atopobium vaginae, and Prevotella species—the result is bacterial vaginosis.

 

BV is not a sexually transmitted infection, though sexual activity is a recognized risk factor. It is the most common cause of vaginal discharge and odor in women of childbearing age, and if left untreated, it can increase the risk of pelvic inflammatory disease, sexually transmitted infections, and complications during pregnancy.

 

What Are the Symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis?

 

 

Many women with BV experience no symptoms at all. However, when symptoms do occur, they commonly include:

 

•       A thin, grayish-white vaginal discharge

•       A strong, unpleasant “fishy” odor, especially after intercourse

•       Vaginal itching or irritation

•       Burning sensation during urination

•       Discomfort during intercourse

 

BV symptoms can resemble those of a yeast infection or other vaginal infections, which is why proper diagnosis from a healthcare provider is important before beginning any treatment.

 

What Causes Bacterial Vaginosis?

 

The exact cause of bacterial vaginosis is not fully understood. However, researchers have identified several factors that may contribute to the disruption of the vaginal microbiome:

•       Douching, which disrupts the natural balance of vaginal bacteria

•       Having new or multiple sexual partners

•       Lack of Lactobacillus bacteria naturally

•       Use of scented soaps, bubble baths, or vaginal deodorants

•       Use of certain intrauterine devices (IUDs)

•       Antibiotic use, which can eliminate beneficial bacteria alongside harmful ones

•       Smoking

•       Hormonal changes

 

Understanding the root causes of BV is important because it highlights why a holistic approach—one that addresses the vaginal microbiome as part of a larger ecosystem—may be more effective for long-term prevention than antibiotics alone.

 

How Can I Support Vaginal Health Naturally?

 

 

Supporting your body’s natural defenses can help maintain a healthy vaginal microbiome and may help prevent bacterial vaginosis. The following practices are generally recommended for supporting vaginal health:

 

•       Eat a whole foods diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fiber

•       Include probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi

•       Avoid douching, which disrupts the natural vaginal flora

•       Choose fragrance-free soaps and personal care products

•       Wear breathable, cotton underwear

•       Practice safe sex and use barrier protection

•       Manage stress through regular exercise, meditation, or other relaxation techniques

•       Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water each day

•       Avoid smoking, which is associated with higher BV risk

•       Limit sugar and refined carbohydrate intake, as these may promote the growth of harmful bacteria

•       Support gut health, as the gut microbiome and vaginal microbiome are closely connected

 

Best Herbs for Bacterial Vaginosis

 

Many herbs have demonstrated antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and microbiome-supporting properties that may help support vaginal health. Below are some of the best herbs for BV, along with their current level of scientific evidence.

 

1. Turmeric (Curcumin) - Curcuma longa

 

 

Turmeric is one of the most promising herbs for bacterial vaginosis based on recent clinical research. Its primary active compound, curcumin, has powerful anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. A 2025 double-blind clinical trial published in Scientific Reports compared the efficacy of oral curcumin to metronidazole (the standard antibiotic for BV) and found that curcumin met the Amsel clinical criteria for effective BV support—with fewer side effects than the antibiotic. While this is a single study and more research is needed to confirm these findings, the results are encouraging.

 

Multiple laboratory studies have also demonstrated curcumin’s antimicrobial effects against bacteria commonly associated with BV, including Gardnerella vaginalis. Turmeric also supports a healthy inflammatory response throughout the body, which may help address the underlying inflammation associated with vaginal dysbiosis.

 

Because curcumin has notoriously low bioavailability on its own, a liposomal delivery form may significantly enhance absorption and therapeutic potential.

 

2. Garlic - Allium sativum

 

 

Garlic is one of the most studied natural antimicrobials and has a long history of use in traditional medicine for infections. It contains the compound allicin, as well as diallyl sulfide, both of which exhibit potent antibacterial properties.

 

A randomized controlled clinical trial published in the Iranian Red Crescent Medical Journal found that oral garlic supplement tablets had therapeutic effects on BV comparable to metronidazole, with significantly fewer adverse side effects. The study concluded that garlic may serve as a suitable complementary option for women who experience side effects from conventional antibiotic treatment.

 

To activate garlic’s antibacterial properties, it should be minced or crushed approximately 10 minutes before consumption to allow the enzyme alliinase to convert alliin into allicin. Garlic supplements in tablet or capsule form are also available for those who prefer standardized dosing.

 

Safety note: Only oral garlic supplements have been studied for BV. Never insert raw garlic into the vagina, as this can cause irritation and tissue damage.

 

3. Calendula - Calendula officinalis

 

 

Calendula, commonly known as pot marigold, has been used in herbal medicine for centuries for its wound healing, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. A double-blind randomized controlled trial published in the Journal of Advanced Pharmaceutical Technology & Research found that a calendula extract-based vaginal cream was effective for supporting BV recovery in reproductive-aged women, with no reported side effects.

 

The study concluded that calendula could be recommended for women who are uncomfortable with the potential side effects of conventional antibiotics. Calendula’s gentle yet effective nature makes it a particularly appealing option for women seeking herbal support for vaginal health.

 

4. Myrtle - Myrtus communis

 

 

Myrtle is a Mediterranean herb that has been used in traditional Persian medicine for vaginal health for centuries. Multiple randomized clinical trials have demonstrated that myrtle-based vaginal preparations showed improvement in supporting BV recovery compared to placebo, and in some cases performed comparably to metronidazole gel.

 

The active compounds in myrtle, including myricetin and other flavonoids, have demonstrated anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antifungal properties. Myrtle also contains volatile oils that contribute to its therapeutic activity against the anaerobic bacteria associated with BV.

 

5. Oregano Oil - Origanum vulgare

 

 

Oregano oil is one of the most potent natural antimicrobials available and has become a popular herb among women seeking natural support for BV. The volatile oils in oregano—primarily carvacrol and thymol—are responsible for its broad-spectrum antibacterial, antifungal, and antimicrobial activity.

 

Laboratory studies have shown that oregano oil successfully inhibits the growth of various pathogenic bacteria. Carvacrol, the primary active compound, has been shown to disrupt bacterial cell membranes, making it difficult for harmful bacteria to survive and proliferate.

 

It is important to note that there is not yet published clinical research specifically on oregano oil for BV. The current evidence is based on in vitro (laboratory) studies and a significant body of anecdotal reports from women who have found it helpful. More clinical trials are needed to confirm its efficacy for this specific condition. Oil of oregano capsules are widely available and commonly used for general microbial support.

 

Safety note: Oregano oil should only be taken orally in capsule or properly diluted form. It should never be applied directly to vaginal tissue, as it can cause significant irritation and burns.

 

6. Berberine-Containing Herbs - Berberis vulgaris, Hydrastis canadensis (Goldenseal), Coptis chinensis

 

 

Berberine is a powerful bioactive alkaloid found in several medicinal plants, including barberry, goldenseal, and Oregon grape root. It has well-documented antimicrobial activity against a wide range of bacteria, fungi, and parasites.

 

A systematic review of medicinal plants for BV treatment found that Berberis vulgaris (barberry), when combined with conventional treatment, showed improved outcomes for women with bacterial vaginosis. Berberine’s ability to inhibit the growth of pathogenic bacteria while supporting the body’s natural defenses makes it a compelling herbal option for vaginal health support.

 

Goldenseal, one of the best-known berberine-containing herbs in Western herbalism, has been used traditionally for infections of the mucous membranes, making it particularly relevant for supporting vaginal tissue health. While goldenseal has not been studied specifically for BV in clinical trials, its traditional use and berberine content make it a commonly recommended herb in this category.

 

7. Tea Tree Oil - Melaleuca alternifolia

 

 

Tea tree oil is well known for its antifungal and antibacterial properties and has been used traditionally for a wide range of infections. A comprehensive review published in Clinical Microbiology Reviews documented tea tree oil’s broad antimicrobial activity, including against many of the bacterial strains associated with vaginal infections.

 

Some over-the-counter products use tea tree oil in vaginal suppositories to target infections, including BV. However, the clinical evidence specifically for tea tree oil and BV remains limited and preliminary. Most of the available data comes from laboratory studies rather than human clinical trials, so more research is needed to confirm its efficacy for this specific condition.

 

Safety note: Tea tree oil must always be diluted with a carrier oil before any topical use. Pure tea tree oil should never be applied directly to skin or mucous membranes, as it can cause significant irritation. Consult your healthcare provider before use.

 

8. Echinacea - Echinacea purpurea

 

 

Echinacea is one of the most widely used medicinal herbs, known primarily for its immune-supporting properties. It contains bioactive compounds including alkamides, phenolic acids, and polysaccharides that stimulate immune cell activity and may help the body fight off infections more effectively.

 

While echinacea has not been studied directly for BV, its ability to support a healthy immune response may help the body naturally resist and recover from bacterial imbalances. Echinacea’s anti-inflammatory properties may also help reduce the irritation and discomfort associated with vaginal infections. It is best thought of as an immune-supportive herb rather than a direct BV treatment.

 

9. Cranberry - Vaccinium macrocarpon

 

 

While cranberry is best known for urinary tract health, its benefits may extend to vaginal health as well. Cranberries contain unique compounds called proanthocyanidins (PACs) with A-type linkages that have been shown to inhibit the adhesion of pathogenic bacteria to mucosal surfaces, potentially helping to prevent bacterial colonization.

 

It is worth noting that most of the clinical research on cranberry is specific to urinary tract infections rather than BV. However, cranberry’s microbiome-modulating and prebiotic properties may help support the growth of beneficial Lactobacillus bacteria, which are essential for maintaining a healthy vaginal environment. Concentrated cranberry supplements or pure, unsweetened cranberry juice are the most therapeutic forms.

10. Neem - Azadirachta indica

 

 

Neem is a powerful herb in Ayurvedic medicine with broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties. It has been used traditionally for various infections, and laboratory research has shown that neem extracts exhibit significant antibacterial activity against a range of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, including species associated with vaginal infections.

 

While clinical trials specifically for neem and BV are lacking, its traditional use is extensive and its general antimicrobial profile is well-documented. Neem’s anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties may also help support the body’s natural healing processes. Neem is available in various forms including capsules, teas, and extracts for internal use.

 

Herbs for BV: Evidence Summary

 

The following table summarizes the current level of scientific evidence for each herb discussed above.

 

Herb	Evidence Level
Turmeric (Curcumin)	Strong — Double-blind clinical trial (2025) comparing curcumin to metronidazole with positive results
Garlic	Strong — Randomized controlled trial showing comparable efficacy to metronidazole
Calendula	Strong — Double-blind RCT showing effectiveness with no side effects
Myrtle	Strong — Multiple RCTs in traditional Persian medicine research
Oregano Oil	Preliminary — Strong in vitro antimicrobial data; no BV-specific clinical trials yet
Berberine Herbs	Moderate — Systematic review shows improved outcomes when combined with conventional treatment
Tea Tree Oil	Preliminary — Broad antimicrobial activity in lab studies; limited BV-specific clinical data
Echinacea	Supportive — General immune support; no direct BV research
Cranberry	Supportive — Strong UTI data; indirect vaginal microbiome benefits theorized
Neem	Preliminary — Extensive traditional use; lab-based antimicrobial data only

Best Supplements for Bacterial Vaginosis Support

 

In addition to herbs, several supplements may help support vaginal health and a balanced microbiome:

 

1. Probiotics

 

Probiotics are arguably the most important supplement for vaginal health. The vaginal microbiome depends on healthy populations of Lactobacillus bacteria to maintain proper pH and prevent the overgrowth of harmful organisms. Multiple studies have shown that both oral and vaginal probiotic supplementation may help support BV recovery and reduce the risk of recurrence.

 

Look for probiotic strains specifically studied for vaginal health, including Lactobacillus rhamnosus, Lactobacillus reuteri, and Lactobacillus crispatus. Probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi can also help support a healthy microbiome.

 

2. Boric Acid

 

Boric acid vaginal suppositories are one of the most widely used non-antibiotic interventions for recurrent BV. While not an herb, boric acid is worth mentioning because of its strong evidence base and frequent recommendation by healthcare providers as a complementary approach. Boric acid works by helping to restore the natural acidic pH of the vagina, creating an environment that supports beneficial Lactobacillus bacteria and discourages the growth of BV-associated organisms.

 

Research has shown that boric acid suppositories may be particularly helpful for women who experience recurrent BV that does not respond well to antibiotics alone. Boric acid is typically used as a vaginal suppository and should only be used after a proper BV diagnosis.

 

Safety note: Boric acid is for vaginal use only and must never be taken orally, as it is toxic when ingested. It should not be used during pregnancy. Always consult your healthcare provider before using boric acid suppositories.

 

3. Vitamin D

 

Vitamin D plays an essential role in immune function and has been associated with vaginal health. Low vitamin D levels have been linked to an increased risk of bacterial vaginosis in several observational studies. Ensuring adequate vitamin D intake through sunlight exposure, diet, or supplementation may help support immune defenses in the vaginal mucosa.

 

4. Vitamin C

 

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that supports immune function. Some research has explored the use of vaginal vitamin C tablets to help restore the acidic pH of the vagina, which may create an environment less favorable for the anaerobic bacteria that cause BV. Oral vitamin C supplementation also supports overall immune health, which may help the body resist vaginal infections.

 

5. Zinc

 

Zinc is an essential mineral involved in immune function and wound healing. Adequate zinc levels support the body’s ability to fight infection and maintain healthy mucous membranes. Zinc deficiency has been associated with increased susceptibility to infections, making it an important nutrient to consider for overall vaginal health support.

 

6. Liposomal Turmeric Curcumin

 

 

Given the promising research on curcumin for bacterial vaginosis, supporting your body with a high-quality turmeric supplement may be beneficial for overall health and wellness.† Here at Zuma Nutrition, our Liposomal Turmeric Curcumin uses an emulsified delivery system that significantly enhances the bioavailability and absorption of curcumin—addressing one of the biggest challenges with conventional turmeric supplements.

 

Our formula contains a therapeutic dose of organic turmeric curcumin extract, and the liposomal encapsulation helps protect the active compounds through digestion, ensuring more curcumin reaches your cells where it can be utilized.† Turmeric’s powerful anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties make it a foundational herb for whole-body wellness, including supporting a healthy microbiome.†

When to See a Doctor

 

While the herbs and supplements discussed in this article may help support vaginal health, it is important to know when professional medical care is necessary. You should see a healthcare provider if:

 

•       You are experiencing BV symptoms for the first time and need a proper diagnosis

•       Your symptoms are severe, persistent, or worsening

•       You have tried natural approaches and symptoms have not improved within a few days

•       You are pregnant or suspect you may be pregnant (untreated BV during pregnancy can increase the risk of preterm birth)

•       You experience recurring BV infections (three or more episodes in a year)

•       You have abdominal or pelvic pain along with vaginal symptoms

•       You are unsure whether your symptoms are caused by BV, a yeast infection, or another condition

 

Herbal and supplemental approaches work best as part of a comprehensive wellness strategy and should complement—not replace—professional medical care when it is needed. Your healthcare provider can help you determine the best treatment plan based on your individual situation.

 

Summary: Best Herbs and Practices for Vaginal Health

 

If you are looking to support your vaginal health and address the underlying factors that contribute to bacterial vaginosis, a holistic approach that combines herbal support with healthy lifestyle practices may offer the most benefit. In summary, we recommend:

 

•       Consider herbs that help with BV such as turmeric, garlic, calendula, and myrtle, which have the strongest clinical research backing

•       Oregano oil, berberine, and tea tree oil show promising preliminary evidence and may offer additional support

•       Support your vaginal microbiome with probiotic-rich foods and supplements

•       Eat a whole foods diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fiber

•       Avoid douching and scented vaginal products

•       Support your immune system with adequate vitamin D, vitamin C, and zinc

•       Manage stress and prioritize sleep

•       Stay hydrated

•       Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption

•       Support your gut health, as the gut and vaginal microbiomes are closely connected

 

If you have any health concerns or suspect you may have bacterial vaginosis, please consult with your healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.

 

 

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