Study: Coriander and thyme essential oils for vaginal infections

Coriander Thyme essential oil douche

TL;DR

A groundbreaking study reveals that coriander and thyme essential oils could be potent alternatives for the treatment of vaginal infections caused by bacteria and fungi. Showcasing bactericidal and fungicidal activities, these oils present a promising avenue for gynaecological treatments, especially against strains like E.coli, S. aureus, and C. albicans.

This study looked at coriander and thyme essential oils for the gynaecological treatment of microbial and fungal infections.

Essential oils studied

  • Coriandrum sativum L. essential oil
  • Thymus vulgaris L. essential oil

Bacteria and fungi studied

Results

  1. Bactericidal activity was higher for coriander EO against almost all tested bacteria, except multiple resistant strains of Enterococcus sp. and Proteus sp.
  2. Thyme EO showed slightly better fungicidal activity for all C. albicans strains.
  3. The effect of EOs on biofilm-forming ability was tested for two strains of S. aureus and E. coli, as well as on C. albicans filamentation ability.

Study conclusions

In-vitro, coriander essential oil can be used against E.coli, S. aureus and C. albicans vaginal infections as an alternative gynaecological treatment.

References

Alternative treatment of vaginal infections – in vitro antimicrobial and toxic effects of Coriandrum sativum L. and Thymus vulgaris L. essential oils, Bogavac M, Karaman M, Janjušević Lj, Sudji J, Radovanović B, Novaković Z, Simeunović J, Božin B., Journal of Applied Microbiology, 2015 Sep;119(3):697-710



Jessica Lloyd - Vulvovaginal Specialist Naturopathic Practitioner, BHSc(N)

Jessica is a degree-qualified naturopath (BHSc) specialising in vulvovaginal health and disease, based in Melbourne, Australia.

Jessica is the owner and lead naturopath of My Vagina, and is a member of the:

  • International Society for the Study of Vulvovaginal Disease (ISSVD)
  • International Society for the Study of Women's Sexual Health (ISSWSH)
  • National Vulvodynia Association (NVA) Australia
  • New Zealand Vulvovaginal Society (ANZVS)
  • Australian Traditional Medicine Society (ATMS)
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