Proven Home Remedies for Balanitis: 11 Ways Of Treating Balanitis At Home

Balanitis is a disorder in which a person’s penis head becomes enlarged, resulting in a highly uncomfortable and painful scenario. However, it is a common situation that will resolve itself if preventive measures are taken appropriately. It affects 3-11% of all males over the course of their lives. It is more prevalent among those who are indifferent about their personal hygiene.

However, the symptoms are not particularly dangerous, but they can cause severe problems if left untreated. Without further delay, let’s talk about home remedies for Balanitis. Before we get into the cures, let’s go over the causes and symptoms.

What Is Balanitis?

Balanitis is an infection or enlargement of the head of the penis or clitoris caused by infection or another cause. It is a painful and unsettling situation, but it is not a cause for alarm and is not contagious. It is a frequent condition that affects both circumcised and uncircumcised men, although it is more common in the latter. However, a person can spread the underlying infection that causes it. 

Balanitis is a common ailment caused by a variety of circumstances, and therapy usually includes addressing the underlying cause to help prevent recurrent bouts. If you have Balanitis, you may notice the head of your penis is swollen, itchy, or painful. 

Balanitis is not a sexually transmitted infection. However, it is important to maintain proper hygiene in that area. 

Because it is not a major issue, several home remedies are available to alleviate its effects. Before going into the cures, let’s discuss the symptoms and causes.

Symptom Of Balanitis

Balanitis symptoms might vary depending on the intensity of the inflammation. If the inflammation is significant, the symptoms will be severe. The following are the symptoms:

• Redness and Swelling around the head of the penis
• Irritation, burning sensation, itching, and soreness around the head of the penis
• Discomfort and pain in the affected area
• Swollen glands near the penis
• Foul smell
• Cracking or peeling skin on penis

The symptoms listed above are some of the most prevalent signs of Balanitis. If you observe a change in the appearance or function of your penis, you should consult a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and suitable therapy.

Causes Of Balanitis

Balanitis can be caused by a variety of reasons, including poor hygiene and bacterial or fungal infection. Identifying the source of Balanitis is critical because treatment depends on the underlying reason for the inflammation. In any case, the following are some of the most common causes of Balanitis:

Infection

Different germs on the skin can multiply and cause infection. A yeast infection which is caused by the fungus candida, is a common cause of Balanitis. Moreover, Balanitis can be caused by bacterial infections such as streptococcus, staphylococcus, or E. coli.

Sexually Transmitted Infections

Sexually transmitted illnesses such as syphilis can also cause balanitis. However, it does occur on occasion. STDs induce vaginal irritation, leading to Balanitis in both men and women. A sexually transmitted infection occurs when there is an enlargement of the urethra. 

Poor Hygiene

Poor hygiene can result in the accumulation of sweat, germs, dead skin cells, and other debris that can irritate the skin. Smegma irritation can also be brought on by bad cleanliness in the penile region and a tight foreskin. If the glans are not cleaned, a cheesy substance called smegma forms under the foreskin.

Skin Conditions 

Certain skin diseases can also cause balanitis. Eczema and psoriasis, for example, can cause inflammation and discomfort in the penis.

Allergic Irritants 

Certain washing powders, condoms, and lubricants may also cause balanitis. Irritation and inflammation of the penis can result from exposure to harsh chemicals such as soaps, detergents, or spermicides.

Balanitis is caused by the agents listed above, which you should attempt to avoid if you want to stay healthy.

Proven Home Remedies for Balanitis 

The cause of the ailment determines the treatment for Balanitis. There are several home remedies available to treat Balanitis. However, it is crucial to note that these remedies are not always effective, and you should consult your doctor to avoid serious complications. Here is a list of some tried and true home cures for Balanitis:

• Keep Good Hygiene
• Maintaining good hygiene in the area is important to avoid Balanitis and other infections. 
• Clean the penis with warm water and mild soap daily, and dry it thoroughly after bathing. 
• Don’t scrub or excessively wash your penis with harsh soaps.

Keeping the glans (head of the penis) clean will prevent bacteria from building up under the foreskin and prevent most Balanitis cases. This is how practicing good hygiene is often enough to cure mild cases of Balanitis. 

Use Ointments

Various over-the-counter ointments may be beneficial in relieving balanitis symptoms. However, keep in mind that the penis is sensitive because and it is critical to consult with a healthcare provider before using any ointments to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment. Anyway, here are some balanitis-relieving ointments:

• Antibacterial creams (antibiotics), such as bacitracin or neomycin, can be helpful in bacterial infection.
• Antifungal creams, such as miconazole or terbinafine, can be effective in fungal infection.
• Zinc oxide cream can effectively treat Balanitis caused by irritants or allergies.
• Steroid creams, such as hydrocortisone, can effectively reduce inflammation and itching.

Take a Salt Bath

If you have Balanitis, use a salt bath to ease the itching and suffering produced by the condition. The salt bath will relieve the itch in the affected area. To alleviate the discomfort caused by Balanitis, try taking a salt bath regularly.

• Pour warm water into your bathtub. 
• Add 2 cups or 400 grams of salt to the bath.
• Stir with your hands until well combined, then immerse in the tub for at least 15-20  minutes. 

Apply Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar contains antifungal and antibacterial characteristics that can aid in the treatment of fungal or bacterial infections that cause Balanitis. Applying apple cider vinegar to your penis and skin can lead to irritation because the penis is very sensitive. Dilute the vinegar with equal parts apple cider vinegar and water before applying it to the afflicted region using a cotton ball.

Use Tea Tree Oil

Many tea tree oils can alleviate the symptoms of Balanitis and treat the underlying cause, bacterial or fungal. Tea tree oil has antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties. The antifungal function inhibits yeast growth, while the anti-inflammatory property soothes inflammation. Apply tea tree oil to the afflicted region after diluting it with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil.

Garlic

Garlic has long been utilized as a home cure for various ailments, including Balanitis. Garlic has antifungal and antibacterial characteristics that can aid in treating Balanitis by preventing yeast and bacterial infection.

• Adding garlic to your diet can help treat your condition significantly.
• Grind a few garlic cloves and mix with water or coconut oil
• Until the paste is smooth. Apply the paste on the penis and affected area.
• Try it with turmeric for even more effect.

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera is one of the most efficient natural ingredients for irritated or damaged skin. It is useful for Balanitis due to its anti-inflammatory characteristics, which can help calm the skin and minimize the inflammation caused by Balanitis. 

• Take an aloe vera and extract its gel. Apply the gel to the affected area of your penis.
• Repeat the process twice daily, and you should feel your symptoms easing.

Yogurt

Yogurt is another natural substance that can aid in the treatment of Balanitis. You can eat yogurt but apply it topically to the affected area to gain relief. Yogurt includes helpful bacteria that can aid in treating fungal infections that cause Balanitis. Simply apply the yogurt to the affected area, or combine it with ginger for even more potency.

Coconut Oil

Natural coconut oil provides several possible health benefits, including the treatment of Balanitis. Coconut oil has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal qualities that can help relieve balanitis symptoms induced by these factors.

• Clean the affected area with warm water, and dry it thoroughly.
• Apply a small amount of coconut oil on the affected area and do gently massage.
• Repeat this process two to three times a day or as needed.

It is important to note that the used coconut oil is pure and does not contain any added ingredients that may irritate the skin.

Calendula

The calendula plant has been used medicinally for many centuries. It is a useful herbal therapy for Balanitis since it possesses antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial qualities. You may brew a nutritious anti-inflammatory tea with dried or fresh calendula. Follow these steps to use calendula:

• Clean the affected area with warm water, and dry it thoroughly.
• Apply calendula ointment or cream on the affected area and gently massage it into the skin.
• Repeat this method two to three times a day or as needed.

Cayenne Pepper

Cayenne pepper is a spicy chili pepper that contains capsaicin, which can help to relieve the discomfort and irritation caused by Balanitis. Because it has pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties, it was used. Moreover, it is rich in antioxidants and vitamins. Add this spicy pepper to your cuisine to see the effect of this spicy pepper. Capsaicin creams that can be used topically are also available. 

Here’s how to use cayenne pepper for Balanitis:

• Combine one teaspoon of cayenne pepper powder and one tablespoon of coconut or olive oil.
• Apply the mixture to the affected area and gently massage it into the skin.
• Leave the mixture for 10-15 minutes, then rinse with warm water.
• Repeat this procedure two to three times a day or as needed.

Probiotics

When ingested in sufficient quantities, probiotics may be useful in regulating the number of bacteria in the body. The immune system is strengthened by probiotics, which also stop the formation of dangerous bacteria in the body. Probiotics can be obtained from several different sources, including:

• Fermented food includes kombucha, sauerkraut, yogurt, and kimchi are rich in probiotics
• Probiotic supplements are available in capsule, tablet, and powder form
• Probiotic creams are available for topical use

How To Boost Recovery From Urinary Retention?

If you are experiencing Balanitis and want a quick recovery, use the home remedies and try to avoid the following things:

• Soap and harsh chemicals
• Avoid using irritants on the affected area
• Avoid tight-fitting clothing
• Avoid sexual activities
• Avoid alcohol to prevent inflammation

If you notice persistent symptoms, visiting your doctor as soon as possible is important.

Conclusion

Balanitis is a painful and uncomfortable condition for a person, and most individuals avoid asking about it out of embarrassment, which leads to greater difficulties. Penis is a sensitive organ and needs proper hygiene and care to prevent Balanitis. You must also use home remedies to seek relief from this illness. If the symptoms persist, contact your doctor.