Lecorrhea

Leucorrhea is an abnormal discharge from the vagina. The vagina has a natural acid environment that protects it from unfavorable pathogens. If this is not maintained, various bacteria, fungi or protozoa can proliferate. Douches of sour taste such as vinegar, yogurt or herbs with acidophilus supplements are effective for this reason. In Ayurveda, leucorrhea is most commonly a Kapha, excess mucus condition, but can be caused by the other humors. It is the humor that is treated rather than the specific pathogen. Vata (air) type leucorrhea will be brown , sticky and dry, with more severe pain. Pitta (fire) type is yellow, smelling, perhaps purulent or mixed with blood, with more burning sensation. Kapha (water) type is white, mucoid, thick, profuse with feelings of dullness and heaviness. Causes are mainly those which increase Kapha; eating too much sweet, sour and salty, heavy and greasy foods such as dairy and sugars. Lack of cleanliness, excessive sex, use of antibiotics infections or venereal diseases contribute.