Urinary tract infections are most common in the lower urinary tract, where the bladder is located. They occur when bacteria enters the urethra and multiples in the bladder. Symptoms include an urge to urinate, burning while urinating and passing small and frequent amounts of urine. Bladder infections are often accompanied by pelvic pressure, lower abdominal discomfort and a low fever. Although it is possible to treat bladder infections with antibiotics, you can also try treating the infection naturally.
Step 1
Drink herbal tea. Herbs found at health food stores such as reishi mushroom, milk thistle, relora, goldenseal root and buchu contain antioxidants that help strengthen the body's systems. Steep 1 teaspoon of herbs per cup of water for 5 to 10 minutes and drink 2 to 4 cups of the tea a day.
Step 2
Drink cranberry juice. A 2009 study by the Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology at the University of Minnesota found that when cranberry is taken at the onset of a bladder infection, it may be able to inhibit bacteria from attaching to the bladder wall. Drink 3 to 6 ounces of unsweetened cranberry juice a day.
Step 3
Take uva ursi. This herb can be found at health food stores in capsule and crushed leaf forms. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that Native Americans used uva ursi for bladder infections because of its antibacterial properties and ability to reduce inflammation. Take 2 to 4 grams of uva ursi capsules a day or soak 3 grams of dried leaves in 5 ounces of water for 12 hours. Drink the tea 2 to 4 times a day.
Tips and Warnings
- Drink water regularly throughout the day in addition to using herbal remedies. This will help you to urinate often and flush bacteria from your urinary tract and bladder.
- See your doctor if you are not successful treating your bladder infection with herbal remedies. He may prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection and prevent it from spreading to your kidneys. If your infection is accompanied by a high fever, shaking, chills, vomiting or pain in your upper back and sides, see your doctor immediately. These symptoms could indicate that the infection has spread to your kidneys. Uva ursi should not be taken by children or pregnant women. Do not take it for longer than 4 days at a time, because it can cause liver damage if taken too long.
Things You'll Need
- 1 teaspoon herbs
- 1 cup water
- Cranberry juice
- Uva ursi
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