Bladder infection is a painful condition affecting the bladder. It occurs when E. coli and other bacteria travel up the urethra and multiply within the bladder, causing symptoms like burning urination, lower back and abdominal pain, and fatigue. Prescription antibiotics and sulfa drugs are the only proven cure for bladder infection, but some medicinal herbs may help contain the infection until you can see a doctor. There are a variety of herbs for treating bladder infection, many of which can be found in supplement shops and drugstores for $10 or less.
Cranberry/Blueberry
Cranberries are a well-known natural treatment for bladder infection. Both cranberries and blueberries contain high amounts of vitamin C and antioxidants called anthocyanidins, which possess immune-stimulating properties. According to the National Institutes of Health, cranberry juice may reduce the number of urinary tract infections (UTIs) in women who experience chronic or recurrent UTIs.
Cranberry and blueberry can be valuable for preventing bladder infection, but are thought to be less effective for treating pre-existing infections. The average dose for preventing bladder infection is 8 oz. unsweetened juice 3 times per day or 300 to 400 mg. tablets two times daily.
Buchu
Buchu is an herb used traditionally to treat bladder infection, inflammation and stomach ailments. It has mild diuretic properties and is thought to help flush the bladder of harmful bacteria. According to Drug Information Online, buchu has been included in the "U.S. National Formulary" and "German Commission E" as a treatment for urinary tract infection. Other uses include treating yeast infection and vaginal discharge, which are sometimes mistaken for urinary tract infection.
The main risks of buchu are its ability to induce abortion and its potential liver toxicity. Because of these risks, buchu should not be taken without a doctor's supervision, especially by pregnant women and those with liver disease. The average dose for treating bladder infection is between 1 and 2 g dried leaves per day.
Uva Ursi
Used for centuries as a Native American cure-all, uva ursi is a powerful herbal remedy for bladder infection. It contains arbutin---a compound with antiseptic and diuretic properties. Uva ursi is also high in tannins, which may help shrink mucus membranes and speed healing. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, uva ursi was the treatment of choice for bladder infections before the discovery of antibiotics like penicillin.
Because it contains a liver toxin known as hydroquinone, overuse of uva ursi may cause serious liver damage. Uva ursi should not be taken for more than five consecutive days, and should be avoided altogether if you have liver disease. Up to 10 g may be taken daily for bladder infection.
