Just Ask Terry

Terry is happy to provide his opinion on diet and nutrition, supplements and lifestyle choices. This information is for educational purposes only. It is not meant to replace the advice of your physician and is not to be considered medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Should you have any concerns please contact your physician directly.

Q. Terry, “I have been struggling with bacterial vaginosis for 9 months. My OB-GYN has prescribed numerous antibiotics/creams/vitamins/probiotics. The symptoms are usually back before I am finished taking the medicine. Please, do you have any recommendations? Thanks.” – Jessica C., Mobile, AL A. Dear Jessica, Bacterial vaginosis results from the overgrowth of one of several types of bacteria normally present in the vagina, thereby upsetting the natural balance of vaginal bacteria. Usually, “good” bacteria (lactobacilli) outnumber “bad” bacteria (anaerobes) in your vagina. But if anaerobic bacteria become too numerous, they upset the natural balance of microorganisms in your vagina and bacterial vaginosis results. The condition is often characterized by abnormal vaginal discharge and an unpleasant odor. I am sorry to hear that you are having difficulties finding an effective treatment. The good news is that I do have some other natural interventions that you may want to try. In the case of bacterial vaginosis, these include concentrated plant oils and high-quality probiotics. When it comes to plant oils, I suggest using a formula that features the concentrated plant oil of Ravensara. This oil is pressed from the fresh leaves of the Ravensara aromatica tree. It is known in its native Madagascar as the “tree with good leaves” because of its many health supportive benefits. When combined with myrtle (Myrtus communis), thyme (Thymus satureioides), and bay (Laurus nobilis) oils, the formula is extremely potent in ridding the body of pathogens. I recommend taking 400 mg of this blend daily. Since you have been struggling for some time, I would also suggest adding a potent oregano oil to your protocol. This native Moroccan botanical has been used traditionally for generations. Research shows that the powerful plant phenols in Moroccan Oregano (Origanum compactum) show antioxidant activity and can also help support the body’s natural immune defense system. I recommend taking 300 mg of oregano oil daily. I highly recommend picking formulas which feature concentrated plant oils that have been laboratory tested to accurately identify elements of their natural chemical composition. Unlike essential oils used for massage and aromatherapy, these plant oils are tested and “fingerprinted” based on specific molecular makeup, species, marker compounds, purity and safety for internal medicinal use. The extraordinary potency of these tested plant oils allows for relatively low doses, but very powerful health benefits. I’d also encourage you to use a high quality probiotic daily. Look for one that provides about 12 billion CFUs (colony forming units) from a variety of probiotic species for more complete coverage. Make sure the brand is guaranteed to deliver a certain number of live probiotics. Some companies only guarantee the number of live bacteria at the time of manufacture, which means that unless you are swallowing the pills right off the assembly line, you don’t know what benefit you are getting. When you supplement with healthy bacteria, they tend to take up residence, which keeps the bad bacteria from re-occupying their old neighborhood should another overgrowth occur. Stick with the probiotic, even if you don’t “feel” any changes, because probiotics are so important in maintaining a healthy microflora balance. Use these three products and I think you will be surprised at how much better you will feel. Good luck! Healthy regards, Terry……..Naturally